Automatically opening and closing plastic stopper caps
In modern barrel-filling systems, many process steps are now automated. However, one challenge has persisted until now: the safe opening and closing of fine-threaded plastic bung caps before and after filling. This step often had to be performed manually, which entailed additional labor, potential sources of error, and limited process reliability.
With the GREIF-VELOX VeloDrum SafeClosure, a solution is now available that fully automates precisely this process. The system handles plastic and steel drum bungs as part of the ongoing filling process, ensuring reproducible results, monitored process steps, and higher equipment availability.
Why Handling Plastic Screw Caps Is So Challenging
While many barrel caps can be processed automatically, plastic fine-threaded caps pose special challenges in terms of positioning, tooling, and screwing. Even minor deviations can lead to defective caps, rework, or even production interruptions.
In many filling plants, this step is therefore still performed manually. This means:
- Additional labor costs
- Process interruptions
- Fluctuating closure quality
- Limited process traceability
- Increased risk of incorrect screwing
VeloDrum SafeClosure eliminates these weaknesses through a fully monitored and automated process.
How VeloDrum SafeClosure Works
The process begins with camera-based position detection of the pilings’ holes. Next, a centering ring moves precisely onto the opening. An integrated overpressure test verifies that the system is correctly seated and sealed. Only then does the automated opening or closing process take place.
During the screw-on process, the system continuously monitors the torque. This allows the system to detect both the position of the closure and the successful completion of the sealing process. All relevant process steps are controlled and executed in a reproducible manner.
The result is an automated drum filling process that requires no manual intervention regarding the bung closures.
Advantages of Automated Sheet Pile Handling
Greater process reliability
Position, tool engagement, and screw fastening are continuously monitored. This allows errors to be detected and prevented early on.
Fewer Manual Interventions
The opening and closing operations take place entirely within the automated process. Operators no longer need to intervene manually.
Reproducible quality
Torque monitoring and defined fastening parameters ensure consistent results and documentable process conditions.
Higher system availability
Process stability increases through the elimination of manual process steps and continuous monitoring. This reduces downtime and increases system availability.
Integration into Existing Lines
VeloDrum SafeClosure can be integrated into new automated filling lines as well as retrofitted to existing systems.
Suitable for plastic and steel drums
The system was developed for the automated handling of fine-threaded bung caps on steel and plastic drums. It can also be used in potentially explosive atmospheres. Furthermore, the solution can be integrated into comprehensive automation and palletizing systems.
Automation Thought Through to Its Logical Conclusion
Many companies have already largely automated their drum filling processes. However, there is often still a manual step involved in handling bung caps. This is precisely where additional costs, potential sources of error, and process risks arise.
With VeloDrum SafeClosure, GREIF-VELOX closes this automation gap and enables end-to-end, monitored, and repeatable drum filling. This not only increases efficiency but also lays the foundation for stable production processes and greater operational reliability.