Overview
Cans move fast and they are light, which creates a specific problem: empty cans are easily blown over, knocked out of line or scuffed, and a scuffed can is a rejected can when the print is the packaging. The conveyor has to keep them upright and in lane at speed without marking them.
Empty can handling usually runs elevated on table top chain or air conveyors to feed the filler, then filled cans run on chain and modular belt through seaming, pasteurising and packing. Because filled cans are heavy and wet after pasteurising, the downstream section is built for load and wash-down rather than for speed alone.
Where we work on the line
- Empty can depalletising and feed
- Filler and seamer infeed
- Pasteuriser and tunnel transfer
- Accumulation between machines
- Coding, labelling and inspection
- Multipack and case packing
Frequently asked questions
How are empty cans conveyed without damage?
On table top chain with guide rails set close to the can diameter so they cannot tip or turn, usually elevated above the floor to feed the filler. Speed and rail setting matter because empty cans are light, easily blown over and easily scuffed, and printed cans are rejected if they are marked.
What handles cans after pasteurising?
Modular belt or table top chain built for wet, warm conditions. Filled cans are heavy and come out wet, so the section after the pasteuriser is specified for load and drainage rather than for maximum speed.
Can the line handle different can sizes?
Yes. Guide rails are adjustable, so the lane is set for the can diameter being run and changed over when the format changes. The conveyor itself is sized to cover the range of can sizes the line is expected to handle.