Packaging Automation - Starwheel Pot Filler

Applications & Use Cases

• Filling pre-formed pots with viscous or semi-viscous food products such as yoghurts, desserts, and sauces.
• Packaging dairy products, including creams, custards, and cheese spreads, into individual serving containers.
• Automated filling and sealing of ready meals or snack pots in a high-volume production environment.
• Dispensing and capping various food items in the chilled, fresh, or ambient food sectors.
• Used in food manufacturing facilities requiring precise portion control and efficient sealing of products.

Typical Specifications

Typical capacity

For this class of twin-lane equipment, capacities commonly range from 60 to 120 units per minute, depending on product viscosity and pot size.

Power supply

Units of this type typically require a 3-phase electrical supply, commonly 400V, 50Hz, with pneumatic air for operation.

Pot diameter range

Machines are generally configured for a specific pot diameter, but some models offer change parts to accommodate a range, typically between 60mm and 150mm.

Filling mechanism

Commonly employs volumetric piston fillers or pump-based systems for accurate dosing of products.

Capping type

Typically includes heat-sealing for foil lids, and may also feature snap-on lid applicators for over-capping.

Materials of construction

Contact parts are commonly made from food-grade stainless steel (e.g., 304 or 316) for hygiene and corrosion resistance.

Footprint

A twin-lane machine of this nature typically requires a floor space of approximately 2.5m to 4m in length and 1.5m to 2m in width.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What types of products can a starwheel pot filler handle?

  Starwheel pot fillers are best suited for viscous or semi-viscous products such as yoghurts, desserts, sauces, and spreads. They can also handle some liquid products with appropriate dosing systems.

• Can this machine handle different pot sizes?

• What maintenance is typically required for this type of equipment?

• Is specialist installation required?

• What safety features are commonly found on these machines?

• Are spare parts readily available for unknown manufacturer machines?