NJM/CLI will introduce the new beltorque Automatic In-Line Capper at Pack Expo Vegas. Unlike traditional cappers that use discs or spindles to tighten caps, the patent-pending beltorque Capper uses belts to tighten caps. This approach improves product quality by eliminating cap damage and achieving more consistent torque values. With simplified mechanics, beltorque increases line productivity by speeding changeover and reducing unplanned downtime.
Like the beltorque Retorquer introduced in 2006, the new beltorque Capper now being introduced synchronizes the linear displacement speed of the container and the rotating speed of the closure, even when the cap stops turning. This method of capping achieves high torque application without scuffing caps and controls torque with minimal tolerances while offering the flexibility to easily adapt to a large variety of closures and containers.
The beltorque Capper handles round, oval, square and rectangular containers from 2 to 12 inches (50 to 305 mm) in height and from 0.5 to 7 inches (12 to 175 mm) in diameter with caps up to 3 inches (75 mm) in diameter at speeds up to 200 cpm. The easy-to-operate beltorque Capper can be changed over in only five minutes, no tools and no container parts required. Torque is controlled via a single point adjustment.
The new beltorque Capper features an integrated cap elevator and cap chute that leads to the two-station capper that applies and tightens the caps. Using belts to tighten caps eliminates the damage to the cap knurling and cap finish that can occur with conventional disc- and spindle-based cappers. By eliminating cap damage, the beltorque Capper produces a more attractive product and eliminates the creation of urethane or plastic particles on the line. Using belts also reduces slippage to achieve more constant torque values, which prevents leakers and product contamination while reducing out-of-tolerance rejects and the associated product re-work.
With one drive that synchronizes the container-handling belts with the cap-tightening belts, the beltorque Capper simplifies operation, reduces maintenance and requires less time to validate than conventional cappers. Synchronizing the movement of the container with the cap-tightening speed stabilizes product to reduce container jams and maximize production efficiency.
The continuous-motion, in-line beltorque Capper features heavy-duty construction, a stainless steel cabinet and support frame, and a polycarbonate front guard with keyed interlock. The compact, self-contained system can be installed over an existing tabletop conveyor, requiring only 120 by 64 inches (3048 by 1626 mm) of floorspace.
An optional color touchscreen control panel eases operation while an optional motorized height adjustment further eases changeover. An optional PLC is equipped with an Ethernet port and torque monitor that can collect data and produce a variety of reports for quality control and process control purposes. As an option, the capper can even display the applied torque on each cap. An optional reject system assures product quality by automatically removing containers with out-of-tolerance cap torque from the production line.
The beltorque Capper is suitable for pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics and personal care products as well as foods and beverages that are produced on lines operating at speeds of up to 200 containers per minute.
