2.3.1 Vial Handling – Vials are presented to the infeed conveyor in single lane format from upstream
operations. The infeed conveyor transfers the vials to the indexing starwheel, which position them
beneath the single lane, eight (8)–port ACCOFIL ® E-type Fill. After filling, vials are transferred
onto a conveyor to a timing screw that controls them through the stopper insert station. They then
exit the machine onto an optional accumulation table or conveyor for transfer to downstream
operations.
2.3.2 Powder Filling – As the fill wheel rotates, powder is drawn, via vacuum, from the hopper into the
measuring ports at the 12 o'clock position and subsequently dosed into the vials at the 6 o'clock
position.
2.3.3 Non-destructive Check Weigh System – The non-destructive check weigh system is designed to
allow the operator to initiate the check weigh cycle either manually or automatically. A total of two
(2) check weigh cells are used to tare and gross weigh the vials – one (1) weigh cell for tare
weighting prior to filling, and one (1) weigh cell for gross weighting after filling. Computer
calculates the difference between tare and gross to provide net weights.
The frequency and time interval(s) between weigh cycle(s) can also be programmed by the
operator. All cycles can be manually or automatically initiated. Fill weight with respective port
identity is illuminated on the check weigh screen and weights can be stored and or downloaded to
a customer-supplied computer during the production run. Data accumulation system is available
as an option. Two modes of check weighing are available:
2.3.3.1 Automatic Mode (At pre-determined time intervals or after “x” number of vials) – Each
port of the filling wheel is sampled with customer-defined instructions.
2.3.3.2 Manual Mode – the operator can intervene during the production run, via the touch
screen control panel, to sample a Specific Port. During This Intervention, The
Predetermined Sample Cycle Program Is Temporarily Suspended.
2.3.4 Stopper Inserting – A timing screw advances vials to and beneath the continuous motion, stopper
insert wheel. The gripper wheel inserts the stoppers into the moving vials as they pass beneath it.
The depth of stopper insertion is adjustable.
2.3.5 Reject – Automatic reject system removes non-conforming vials from the production stream into a
reject tray.
2.4 Machine Features