VeloDrum SafeClosure for automated barrel filling line

VeloDrum SafeClosure:
Automated handling of fine-threaded bung caps

GREIF-VELOX’s patent-pending VeloDrum SafeClosure automates the opening and closing of specific bung closures as part of the drum filling process.

Positioning, opening, and screwing are verified during the process. This eliminates the need for manual intervention and ensures reproducible processes in automated drum filling lines.

Many barrel filling systems are already largely automated. However, handling fine-threaded bung caps often still requires manual intervention.

The VeloDrum SafeClosure handles this process step directly within the filling line:

The Six-Step Process

Positioning

After imaging, the screwdriver unit is positioned over the detected pile hole.

Check

A pressure test verifies that the centering ring is properly seated on the wellhead and provides a reliable seal.

Open

The tool engages with the latch. The increase in torque confirms proper engagement before the lid is opened.

Filling

After opening, the lid is removed from the bunghole and held in the screwdriver. Filling then begins.

Close

Once the filling process is complete, the screwdriver unit is repositioned and the lid is automatically screwed on.

Verify

Torque and insertion depth confirm that the screw has been tightened correctly.

Optimized Filling Processes

Greater Reliability in the Barrel-Filling Process

No manual intervention

Opening and closing are performed automatically as part of the existing filling process.

Monitored Process Steps

Positioning, tool engagement, and screw fastening are checked based on defined process parameters.

Reproducible Lid Handling

Torque and insertion depth ensure consistent and repeatable process conditions.

Integration into Plant Design Concepts

The VeloDrum SafeClosure can be integrated as a process module into automated drum and pallet filling systems.

Integration into existing systems can be evaluated depending on the system configuration, control system, safety concept, and process requirements.

For various types of barrels and closures

The solution is designed for select steel and plastic drums, as well as specific plastic and steel bung caps.

The applications tested include, among others:

Plastic drums with BCS 56 × 4

Plastic drums with BCS 70 × 6

Selected 2-inch Applications

Steel drums with specified plastic or steel bung caps

It is also possible to use reconditioned barrels, provided that the barrel's surface, color, and the condition of the bunghole allow for reliable imaging and positioning.

Designed for demanding filling processes

The VeloDrum SafeClosure is particularly well-suited for automated drum filling systems in applications with high requirements for process stability and operator convenience.

Typical Industries:

Chemicals · Additives · Lubricants · Paints and Coatings · Industrial Fluids · Food Production, Contract Filling, Barrel Manufacturers

Technical Features

The applications tested include, among others:

Positioning Using Imaging

Overpressure Test at the Pile Hole

Flexible torque settings

Monitoring of Torque and Screw-In Depth

Three defined internal tool positions

Pneumatic system without a spring

Controlled retention of the fastener in the screwdriver

Defined Response When an Incorrect Screw Connection Is Detected

The design allows the tool to be positioned at the screw hole without already engaging with the cap. Especially with plastic drums, the cap is held securely in the screwdriver throughout the process.

Integration with A-DOS-P1 and A-DOS-FS

The VeloDrum SafeClosure was developed for automated use within the A-DOS-P1 pallet filling system and the A-DOS-FS automatic drum filling machine.

In conjunction with camera-based bung detection, the entire process—from opening the bung to filling the container and verifying that the cap is securely fastened—is automated.

Learn more about the A-DOS-P1

Learn more about the A-DOS-FS

Sebastian Pohl Managing Director Portrait

Automating Fine-Pitch Threading

Do you want to finally achieve reliable, automated screw-on of fine-threaded lids? With VeloDrum SafeClosure, we have the solution. Whether steel or plastic drums – GREIF-VELOX assesses your specific combination of drum, lid and process requirements and integrates the solution seamlessly into new or existing drum filling systems.

Request a demo or consultation

VeloDrum SafeClosure: Automated handling of fine-threaded bung caps