The nuances of producing containers for liquids: how to choose equipment
Packages, bottles, canisters, jars and other types of containers are used every day in industry. To choose the right type of container, it is important to consider the storage and transportation requirements of the product, its properties, methods of use or consumption, and so on. Regardless of the scope of the packaging: packaging of household chemicals or drinks - in any case, you will need high-quality packaging that will attract the attention of the client. It is much better when equipment for the production of bottles is located in the same plant with the bottling line - thus the costs of logistics are reduced, plus you don’t give part of the profit to other companies. In the article you will read about what equipment is needed for the production of containers and how to select it.
Basic rules for choosing equipment
- Productivity. The first thing you need to find out is how many products need to be produced per hour, per day, per month, because the efficiency of production as a whole depends on this. If you don't produce enough, it will delay deliveries and slow down the bottling line. The opposite situation can also be unprofitable, because you will spend extra money on more powerful equipment that you don’t actually need. To avoid mistakes, allow 10–20% of the loss of time from the instantaneous productivity of the equipment indicated in the passport for preparatory and final operations.
- Required documentation. Check that the equipment for the production of plastic the container had all the necessary certificates and complied with 3 technical specifications. regulations of the Customs Union: on the safety of low-voltage equipment and electromagnetic compatibility of technical equipment, on the safety of machinery and equipment, on the safety of low-voltage equipment.
- Automation. This is a key aspect in the production of PET containers. There are two types of blow molding equipment: semi-automatic, capable of producing from 300 to 1,200 units per hour, and automatic, with a capacity of 1,000 to 20,000 units per hour and above. Semi-automatic equipment is often used in applications where different types of bottles are required to be produced, as they are easily customizable for different applications. Automatic lines pay for themselves quickly, especially with a productivity of 2000 units per hour and above.
- Container material. For the production of PET containers, equipment is often used that simply inflates the bottle from a pre-made preform. In the case of the production of PP or PE containers, the equipment forms a bottle from plastic granules, which is a more complex and costly process. In addition, some types of containers can be produced using thermoplastic machines.
What equipment is required for packaging drinks and other liquids
Production process packaging for liquids involves several stages, each using specific techniques. Let's look at these stages using the example of a PET bottle.
- Creating a mold. A previously thought-out bottle design is implemented in a mold. It is this that gives the desired shape to the future product.
- Stretching and blowing. Preforms for the future container are subjected to heating to a temperature of approximately 70–80 degrees, then stretching occurs using rods, and compressed air inflates the preform until it comes into contact with the walls of the mold. For this, automatic bottle blowing machines are used. After the plastic cools, crystallization occurs, securing the shape of the finished bottle.
- Capking. An important step is the correct sealing, since it is the lid that ensures the tightness of the container, preserving the properties of the contents and ensuring safe transportation. For this purpose, capping machines are used that are compatible with various types of caps: flip top, screw, sports cap, trigger and others.
- Labelling of containers. The last stage is the labeling stage. Here the packaging is marked and checked according to all standards. This process uses labeling machines capable of creating different types of labels for different types and volumes of containers.
All equipment mentioned is available for order from PAKKA software (pakka.ru). In addition to moulds, capping machines, labeling machines and blow molding machines, the company offers comprehensive solutions for plant equipment for the production of chemical liquids and drinks, ensuring a long service life of the equipment - at least 10 years. In one day, professionals can quickly calculate how much equipment your production requires and estimate its cost. Work with specialists!