DESCRIPTION
The LTFS-2 is an automatic linear bucket filling, film sealing and lidding machine for liquid, viscous, granular, powdered and multi-component products packed in pre-made plastic buckets, pails, tubs and other rigid containers. It is suitable for a wide range of food and non-food applications, with the machine configuration matched to the product characteristics and required filling process.
Designed for larger bucket formats with filling volumes from 1,000 to 5,000 ml, the machine is particularly well suited to HORECA applications where products are supplied in larger pack sizes. Custom-made format parts, manufactured according to the customer’s packaging drawings, allow the machine to handle different bucket formats while maintaining the same linear machine configuration.
An integrated film sealing system die-cuts film lids from a roll of flexible film and heat seals them onto the filled buckets before plastic lid application. The machine can operate as a standalone unit or connect to upstream and downstream equipment as part of a complete packaging line.
OPERATING PRINCIPLE
The LTFS-2 uses an intermittent linear indexing system. A gripper mechanism moves the buckets step by step through a sequence of automated stations, positioning each bucket accurately at every station.
Depending on the container format and project requirements, the machine uses one of two bucket feeding methods: empty buckets are either automatically denested from a vertical magazine or supplied from a horizontal conveyor that delivers them to the indexing mechanism. The most suitable feeding method depends on the individual characteristics of the packaging and the requirements of the project. An optional UV-C station treats the internal surface of each bucket before filling to reduce microbial contamination.
At the filling station, the selected dosing system, such as a volumetric piston filler, electronic weigh filler or auger filler, dispenses the preset quantity of product into each bucket. The balance tank supplies the filling system, while a level sensor and automatic product feed valve maintain the required product level.
After filling, the film sealing system die-cuts a film lid from a roll of flexible film using a punch-and-die system and heat seals it onto the filled bucket. The machine then automatically feeds plastic lids from the vertical lid magazine and positions them onto the sealed buckets. The lid closing unit presses the lids into place to form a secure closure.
The machine controller coordinates bucket indexing, filling, film sealing, lid placement and closing to maintain the correct sequence of operations. Operating parameters are set at the operator interface, which also displays machine status and alarms.
OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES
The LTFS-2 automatic bucket filling, film sealing and lidding machine requires minimal operator intervention during production. The operator is primarily responsible for monitoring the machine, keeping the bucket feeding system, film supply and lid magazine supplied, and checking the filling, sealing and lidding process. Typical operator responsibilities include:
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
The LTFS-2 is suitable for a broad range of food products packed in buckets, pails and tubs, including liquid, viscous, granular and powdered products. The machine is particularly suitable for larger pack formats used in foodservice and HORECA applications. The final configuration depends on the product characteristics, container format, filling volume and required production capacity.
CONFIGURATION OPTIONS
The machine can be adapted to different products, bucket formats and production requirements through a range of dosing, product handling, hygiene and automation options. The selection of format parts, filling system and auxiliary equipment depends on the product characteristics, container design, filling volume and required production capacity.
