Selecting the Right Liquid Filling Machine FAQs Part 3
July 6, 2026
Selecting the Right Liquid Filling Machine- FAQs
Filling method matters as much as the machine format. Volume-based, level-based, pressure-based, vacuum-based, and flow-meter-based systems each solve different product challenges, from thin foaming liquids to thick viscous products and high-value formulations that demand tighter accuracy.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between rotary and inline filling machines?
Rotary machines move containers around a circular carousel and are built for speed. Inline machines move containers in a straight line and are usually better for flexibility and simpler setup. - What is a volumetric filler?
A volumetric filler dispenses a preset amount of product into each container. It is useful when the goal is consistent fill quantity rather than visible fill height. - What is the difference between MAGFlow and MASSFlow?
MAGFlow uses electromagnetic flow measurement and is best for conductive liquids. MASSFlow uses Coriolis mass measurement and is better suited for high-accuracy filling and non-conductive or high-value products. - When should a piston filler be used?
Piston fillers are best for thick or viscous products such as lotions, creams, pastes, and similar materials. They are especially useful when gravity or simple flow-based systems are not enough. - What is an overflow filler?
An overflow filler fills containers to a consistent visible level. It is commonly used for clear bottles and products where shelf appearance is important. - When is a gravity filler the right choice?
Gravity fillers work well for thin, free-flowing liquids. They are simple, economical, and commonly used for low-viscosity products. - What does pressure gravity filling mean?
Pressure gravity filling means the machine can use pressure or gravity depending on the product and application. It provides flexibility for lines that handle more than one liquid type. - What is a pressure filler used for?
Pressure fillers are used when product needs positive force to move into the container. They are often chosen for foamy, carbonated, or faster-moving applications. - What is a vacuum filler?
A vacuum filler uses suction to fill containers. It is a more specialized solution and is used in applications where gentle or controlled filling is helpful. - What is a monobloc filler-capper?
A monobloc filler-capper combines filling and capping in one integrated machine. It saves space and can improve line efficiency by reducing transfer between separate machines.
Contact us for more information. Look at Parts 1 and 2 from this series.
What Happens During Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT)Stages 3 - 4 Stage 3: Dry Functional Testing Air and Control System Checks With the mechanicals validated and lubricated, Laub\Hunt conducts dry functional tests (i.e., no product yet) to confirm pneumatic and control behavior. This includes: ● Checking the air filter by running air through water to verify proper exhaust of air and any entrained moisture. ● Wiring and testing up‑and‑down solenoids, confirming the correct hoses and motions, and ensuring there are no wiring or plumbing errors. ● Setting pressure regulators for plungers and other actuators. ● Verifying float switch travel—typically at least 4 inches between on and off positions—and ensuring switches reliably trigger overflow pumps when specified. These steps represent best practices where PLC inputs/outputs, actuators, and interlocks are checked before any wet testing. Laub\Hunt’s checklist embeds these tasks in a structured, sign‑off format. Valve and Hardware Verification Still in the dry phase, technicians verify: ● Presence and condition of all valve components: blocks, washers, O‑rings, tips, and screws, with no missing parts and all fasteners snug. ● Adjustability of valves across the full outage range: clearing the bottle top, reaching the lowest fill level, and beyond. Other FAT protocols require similar checks to ensure valves and heads are complete and adjustable before any performance measurements are made. Laub\Hunt’s detailed valve checklist minimizes the risk of assembly omissions that could create leaks or inaccurate fills. Stage 4: Wet Test and Leak‑Tightness Water‑based Wet Test The core of FAT is the wet test, where the filler is run with water to verify leak‑tightness and system behavior under realistic hydraulic conditions. Laub\Hunt technicians: ● Check for leaks at valves, hose gaskets, manifolds, and piping to any vacuum pumps. ● Inspect rotating seals by deliberately stressing them side‑to‑side to see if leakage occurs. ● Verify that O‑rings at switches are lubricated and not leaking, and that Permatex or similar thread sealant is applied on specified switch threads. Laub\Hunt prioritizes leak tests, emphasizing the need to verify seals, connections, and wetted components before shipping. Laub\Hunt’s process ensures the entire liquid path is sealed and stable. Functional checks with water and bottles Simultaneously, the team verifies system functions under wet conditions: ● Confirming float switches control overflow pumps correctly. ● Running bottles through the filler to test stars and guides in real operation. ● Checking that valves reach and maintain target levels at different settings and that the full range of fill‑level adjustment is available. ● Ensuring the cam for “puffing” or venting seals properly on the upper tip O‑ring before being withdrawn from the valve. Water trials validate filling accuracy, container handling, and control logic before committing to performance metrics. Laub\Hunt integrates these into a single wet test phase, tightly linked to its checklist items. Contact us for more information. Check out stages 1-2 and stages 5-7. (Coming Soon)
During Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Laub\Hunt Packaging Systems runs your filler through a structured, checklist‑driven trial in their plant—verifying lubrication, mechanical alignment
NeverDown - Preventative Maintenance Press Release For Immediate Release Contact: Jeff Hunt Phone: (888) 671-9338 Email: jhunt@laubhunt.com https://www.laubhunt.com/ Laub\Hunt Launches NeverDown—A Preventive Maintenance Service Built for Equipment Reliability and Uptime New Service Offering Combines Proactive Maintenance, Remote Support, and Customized Plans to Reduce Downtime and Maximize ROI Norwalk, CA – June 23, 2026 – Laub\Hunt Packaging Systems , a leading manufacturer of precision liquid filling equipment serving the Bleach, Pool / Spa, Food & Beverage, Industrial Chemicals, Household Products, Personal Care, and Automotive industries today announced the launch of NeverDown , a comprehensive service solution designed to help manufacturers reduce downtime, improve equipment performance, and maximize return on investment. For over 75 years, Laub\Hunt has built filling systems known for their accuracy, durability, and reliability. NeverDown extends that commitment beyond installation, providing customers a proactive approach to maintaining peak performance throughout their equipment's lifecycle. "Production interruptions are costly," said Jeff Hunt, President and CEO. " NeverDown helps customers identify and address issues before they become problems, giving them greater visibility and confidence in their operations." A Proactive Approach to Equipment Reliability Unlike traditional reactive service models, NeverDown focuses on preventive maintenance and early intervention through: Routine mechanical and system inspections Calibration of filling accuracy and consistency Verification of seals, valves, and critical operating components Cleaning and conditioning of components exposed to corrosive products Performance testing under actual operating conditions Each service visit follows a detailed inspection checklist customized to the specific equipment configuration, ensuring comprehensive and consistent evaluations over time. Customized Maintenance Programs Laub\Hunt tailors each program to customer requirements—from monthly inspections to annual comprehensive evaluations—coordinating maintenance with production schedules to minimize disruption. Programs account for production volume, operating conditions, product corrosiveness, and uptime objectives. Replace Before Failure Rather than waiting for unexpected failures, NeverDown manages wear items through planned replacement cycles, reducing unplanned downtime, preventing secondary equipment damage, maintaining filling accuracy, and lowering lifecycle costs. Responsive Support FillSure combines on-site field service with remote diagnostics, enabling rapid issue resolution while deploying technicians only when hands-on intervention is necessary. "As manufacturers focus on productivity and cost control, reliable equipment becomes critical," Hunt added. "NeverDown provides the structure and expertise customers need to keep operations running at peak performance." Through structured maintenance planning, detailed inspections, proactive parts management, and responsive support, Laub\Hunt helps manufacturers gain greater control over equipment performance while reducing operational uncertainty. About Laub\Hunt Laub\Hunt Packaging Systems designs and manufactures precision liquid filling equipment for the bleach, pool and spa, food and beverage, industrial chemical, household products, personal care, and automotive industries.| With more than 75 years of manufacturing heritage, the company is recognized for building high-quality, simple-to-operate filling systems that deliver exceptional accuracy, reliability, and long-term value. Laub\Hunt's equipment is installed throughout North America and around the world, helping manufacturers improve productivity and maintain consistent product quality. For more information about NeverDown and Laub\Hunt’s complete line of packaging solutions, contact Jeff Hunt at (888) 671-9338, or via email at jhunt@laubhunt.com . https://www.laubhunt.com/contact https://www.laubhunt.com/
