Liquid Filling Machines by Fill Principle

Those new to filling and otherwise packaging a liquid may find themselves doing research and wonder why there are so many different filling machines available. One of the reasons for that a variety of filling machines are available to packagers is the method by which the liquid is filled. Different fill principles allow liquids to be filled in different manners. Some liquids will be filled by volume, while others will be filled to a specific level or by weight. Below we look briefly at each of the three popular fill principles.

Volumetric Filling Machines

Several different filling machines fill liquid by volume. This means the same amount of product will enter each container with each fill cycle. The accuracy is ideal for products that make claims about the amount of product in a container, or in industries that must meet certain volumetric requirements for each bottle. Gravity fillers, pump fillers and piston fillers all provide a highly accurate volumetric fill. The specific machine used on any given project will depend on the product, containers, speed and other factors. Generally speaking, gravity filling machines work well with free-flowing products while pump and piston fillers will be seen more often on projects with higher viscosity liquids.

Fill to a Level Filling Machines

The overflow filling machine provides an alternative to filling by volume. Special overflow fill nozzles allow product to enter a bottle or other container and then "overflow" through a return port when the product reaches a specific level. The overflow typically returns to the tank, where it will be recirculated. Overflow filling machines work well with low to medium viscosity products and are often preferred where a glass or clear container is used, allowing for a good aesthetic effect when the products reach the shelf. Notably, if the volume of containers is consistent and precise, the overflow filler can also produce an accurate volumetric fill as well.

Net Weight Filling Machines

Generally speaking, a net weight filling machine will use scales to ensure each container is receiving the same amount of product by weight. The weight will be pre-set for each product and container combination, with this principle typically used for larger fill quantities as well as some products that are required to be filled by net weight. The net weight filler may also be used for high end product to reduce waste during the fill process.

Packaging Specialists at Liquid Packaging Solutions will help each individual packager find the right fill principle and machine for their own packaging project. Whether looking for tabletop equipment for smaller or regional projects or setting up a fully automated packaging line, LPS can help not just with filling, but with all necessary equipment from the front of the line to the end.