The Sidel FMm filling machine
An extremely flexible machine, the Sidel FMm can handle different types of plastic bottles (PET, HDPE) in various sizes and formats (100 ml to 2 l) with outputs from 6,000 to 50,000 bph. The configuration comes with 24, 36, 40, 50, 54 or 60 filling valves.
After processing, the product is fed into the filler tank from the top. The product flows by gravity from the tank through the filling nozzles. Electro-pneumatic flow meters control the volume to ensure very precise filling.
There is no contact between the filling valve and the bottle during filling, and it is possible to fill up to 60 grams of fruit pulp per liter.
For foaming products, such as low fat milk, the filling process takes place at two different speeds. The valve is only opened partially at the beginning and the end of the filling operation. In between the product flows at maximum speed into the bottle.
The entire system is cleaned fully automatically and the automatic cleaning cups close the filling valves during CIP.
At the end of production residual product can be drained through a set of filling nozzles into a product tray. The product can then be reprocessed for the next production run.
The FMm closing systems
The FMm can be combined with a screw capper or a foil seal application unit. Various cappers from several top-class suppliers can be joined to the filler to guarantee maximum product safety. Moving parts in the capper are reduced to a minimum to suit the ultra clean design of the filler.
Prospects
The FMm is the key machine in the Sidel filling solution for the growing worldwide demand for ESL products and milk derivatives. As a stand-alone unit, the filler can be fitted into a standard filling line or it can be combined with a Sidel stretch blow molding machine.
Recently Sidel has been making considerable efforts in the research field. In this case, the keyword is sterilization, and major new developments are expected in the interrelated dry and wet decontamination technologies.
In combination with the new FMm Filler, the next generation of Sidel Combi machines will be able to produce ultra-clean bottles and caps with no chemical bottle sterilization and no water consumption. Moreover, savings in production, floor space, and operating personnel will make this solution the most efficient yet.
