1–3: Define the package, product and fill
Record the bag format, supplier, fitment drawing and target net mass. Describe the product at the filling condition: Brix, viscosity and test temperature, pulp, particles, pH and foaming. These inputs determine the head, valve, meter and cleaning duty. A model name cannot replace them.
4–6: Calculate the complete cycle and head count
Calculate the finished packages or mass per shift from the actual cycle: load, fitment connection, fill, close, inspect and discharge. Add cleaning, changeover and planned stops. Use the complete cycle to compare single and twin heads. Do not multiply a single-head rating by two without evidence.
7–8: Choose metering and automation
Weighing measures the filled mass; a flow meter measures product passing the meter. The choice depends on the product, fill target, accuracy and acceptance method. Automation can cover fitment treatment, filling, closure and recipes, but bag loading, boxing and palletising may remain separate. Define the boundary.
9–10: Check utilities and acceptance
Obtain the utility schedule for the proposed model and operating mode: steam, air, power, water, drain and floor loading. Confirm the CIP/SIP boundary and the FAT/SAT criteria. Ask for a cycle breakdown and a representative trial with your product and package. Compare proposals on the same basis.
EQUIPMENT TO COMPARE
Machines that fit this selection.
AF1S single-head bag-in-drum filler
A single filling position for 200 L class aseptic bags in drums. The AF1S is the reference model when one head, one drum station and a straightforward load–fill–close cycle fit your production window.
Review the model ↗AF1DAF1D twin-head bag-in-drum filler
Two filling positions for 200 L class aseptic bags. The AF1D is the reference model when drum handling can overlap and the product supply, conveyors and operator access can support two stations.
Review the model ↗AF2SAF2S single-head bag-in-box filler
A compact single-head model for 1–25 L aseptic bags in boxes. The AF2S is the starting point when retail and food-service pack sizes, quick changeovers and a small footprint matter more than bulk drum output.
Review the model ↗AF2DAF2D twin-head bag-in-box filler
Two filling positions for 1–25 L aseptic bags. The AF2D is the reference model when the finished-box rate, not the filling phase alone, justifies a second station.
Review the model ↗PRACTICAL ANSWERS
Frequently asked questions
Should I choose a single or twin-head filler?
Choose by the complete cycle, not the head count. A twin head helps only when package handling, product supply and operator work can overlap. Confirm with a cycle breakdown.
What is the most important input?
The exact bag and fitment, together with the product behaviour at the filling condition. Without them, the model and performance discussion is speculative.
How do I compare quotations?
Use the same product, package, fill target, utilities and acceptance method. Ask for the model, scope, cycle assumptions, exclusions and test evidence.