Product behaviour controls the filling method
Viscosity, temperature sensitivity, solids, air entrainment, stringing, foaming and shear sensitivity determine how a product can be metered and cut off. Samples should be evaluated at the real filling temperature because apparent viscosity may change substantially during production.
Piston dosing
Piston systems meter a defined displacement and can provide repeatable portions across a useful viscosity range. Valve design, cylinder fill, seals and cleaning access must suit the product. Products with large or fragile particulates require particular attention to flow paths and valve clearances.
Gear and lobe pumps
Gear pumps can provide controlled flow for clean, lubricating products but may create shear and require close-clearance protection. Rotary lobe pumps offer gentle product handling, hygienic construction options and solids capability, while accuracy depends on slip, speed, pressure and the control strategy.
Nozzles and cut-off
A filling system must stop cleanly as well as meter accurately. Shut-off, suck-back or diving nozzles may be used depending on stringing, splashing and container geometry. The hose volume, nozzle temperature and product head can affect the final dose.
Hygienic design and changeover
Product-contact materials, surface finish, drainability, dead legs, seal selection and cleaning method should be defined from the hygiene risk. Tool-free dismantling, CIP capability or validated manual cleaning may be required. Changeover time is part of line capacity.
Data for selection
Specify the product range, viscosity and temperature, particulates, target fill weights and tolerances, container sizes, line speed, cleaning procedure, contact materials, available utilities and upstream or downstream conveyor interfaces.