Quick-change star wheels for a P&C Automatic filler
The P&C Automatic filler on the line we equipped runs a small glass bottle of 33 mm diameter. With a bottle that small the margin for centring under the filling head is small, so the gripper has to hold the bottle exactly in place. We fitted a Bottleneck star wheel on the filler disc, with the Φ33 mm specification engraved on every segment.
What we built for the P&C Automatic filler
Star wheels for a Φ33 mm bottle
The grippers were made to the exact 33 mm diameter and keep the centres of the machine. Φ33 mm is engraved on every segment, so it cannot be mixed up with a set for another bottle.
Disc with engraved logo
The base was designed by reverse engineering the dimensions of the P&C Automatic disc and goes on once. The logo and the specification are part of the design, not a sticker, so they do not fade or peel off with washing.
Changeover without tools
Every segment of the star wheel unclamps and clamps by hand. A new bottle means a new set of segments, not a new disc, and to make it we only need the drawing or a sample of the bottle.
Photographs from the installation
What changed on the line
The Bottleneck base went on once. From then on only the segments that touch the bottle change, by hand and with no adjustment of the filler.
If the line needs another bottle in the future, it takes a phone call and the drawing or a sample. The new set of segments is ready in 3-5 working days, with no visit to the line.
P&C Automatic filler: common questions
I run a P&C Automatic with a different bottle. What do I need?
Send us the model and the bottle diameter. If a Bottleneck base is already there, you only need new segments, in 3-5 working days.
What bottle diameter does the system take?
The grippers cover bottles up to Φ105 mm. The limit on any machine is the height and the room the station gives, not the grippers.
Do you run a P&C Automatic filler?
Send us a photo of the station and the bottle you want to run. We will tell you what is needed and what is not, with no commitment.