Bulk Bag Filling - Sanitary, Multiple Package Handling

Ingredients Handled
Nondairy creamer in high volumes

Control and Metering's Customer
The customer is a large producer of nondairy creamer.

Customer's Reason For Using Bulk Bags
The producer's customers require that the creamer be delivered in a variety of containers. Control and Metering' s filling system allows the producer to fill multiple containers at a high continuous output, use labor efficiently, and produce bulk bags that transport well. The containers include bulk bags, stainless steel totes and boxes.

Control and Metering Application Solution
A three machine filling station was installed with a common platform running behind them from which a single operator conducts all filling functions and where the sequencing and filling controls are located. This allows the second operator to be dedicated to the positioning of empty containers in the filling machine and removal of the filled containers by fork truck. Each machine can fill any of 10 container types depending on the recipe selection.

Model C/ABR/CONV fillers were selected. Each features the patented cone table densification system, hang weighing (for bulk bags) and hang filling. Additionally, the shuttle used with this particular model was modified to contain a second weighing system for the filling of totes and boxes. The shuttle is used to automatically remove filled bulk bags from the machine and, in this application, to support and weigh the totes and boxes as they are filled. The operation of the three fillers is coordinated and controlled by a PLC system. Each machine features an LCD, graphical operator interface.

Application Challenges and Their Solution
The high output requirement was combined with a demand that each machine fill a wide range of packages, ranging from 2 gaylord sizes, 2 tote sizes and 4 bulk bag sizes, lined and unlined. Apart from the fill head design, and the need for a flexible arrangement, the machines also had to achieve maximum densification of the product to produce a safely transportable package. The sanitary and continuous nature of this process meant careful choreography to coordinate the transport of containers waiting to be filled and the the filled containers for takeaway.

Clearly the planning of such an exacting sequencing operation required a good understanding of the process. Control and Metering application specialists were pivotal in defining the timing and maximizing the efficiency and flexibility of the logistics. The recipes are PLC controlled and directly connected to the plant processing control.

Why The Customer Chose Control and Metering
The Model C filler's ability to accurately weigh the bulk bags and to densify them to the maximum degree possible were key to the selection criteria. Also, the Model C's adaptability in allowing the other two types of packages to be filled using the same machine with no changeover required other than making a recipe selection was very important. Finally, Control and Metering's experience in custom system design and automated filling systems convinced the customer that we could do the job.

For further information on Sanitary, multiple package handling contact contact us at info@spiroflow.com or call 1-704-246-0900.