Compere Ling

Can Handling

Overview

Empty cans are fed to the majority of modern beverage can filling machines from a depalletiser in the following way. A modular plastic link chain conveyor (mat-Top) transports cans in mass to a vacuum transfer unit. Fallen cans, which may have occurred during the depalletising process, are not picked up by the vacuum transfer unit and are thus ejected from the system. Cans then pass into the mass air buffer conveyor ready for single filing and presentation to a can inspection unit. Whilst passing through the inspection unit cans are conveyed in single file and held in place on a narrow vacuum belt. Following inspection, and rejection of any faulty ones, the cans are accumulated back into mass so as to provide a buffer before the can rinser which is positioned downstream. The cans are then single filed for feed into the rinser after which a table-top slat-band style conveyor transports the cans to the filler. Filling lines with speeds above 1500 cans per minute require two can inspection units and twin lane rinsers.
Before the inspection units the mass flow of cans is divided into two single file streams by a dual lane air single filer. After inspection the cans are then distributed back into mass flow before another dual lane air single filer splits the can flow into two single file streams for feed to a dual lane rinser. Following rinsing in two lanes the cans are combined into a single file flow for transportation to the filler on a table top slat band style conveyor. Some high speed filling machines are fitted with twin in-feed systems in which case cans are transported from the two lanes of the rinser to the filler on twin table top slat-band style conveyors.

Advantages of Using Ling Air Conveyors

Ling Systems empty can air conveyors are constructed with the following features so as to provide the user with the most advanced product available. Deck plates and top covers are constructed of high-grade stainless steel. Air decks have stiffening bars and rods, which keep the air deck stable when the air pressure is applied by the fans. Top covers have ribs fitted, which provide rigidity and prevent sagging. The air deck is secured to the plenum chamber by an internal return flange to insure a good air seal and no deformation of the air deck surface. A gasket is also fitted to insure a good air seal. These features combine to provide a smooth, flat and high tolerance surface for the cans to run on. Automatic adjustment of the top cover position utilising pneumatic cylinders can be fitted so as to accommodate different can heights. Top covers can still be easily removed with this feature fitted using the twist lock handles. Electronically controlled fan motors enable very precise can velocity control and easy changeover between different can sizes.