KHS has introduced a new service solution to address the challenges of filling lightweight cans, ensuring production efficiency while adapting to industry trends toward thinner-walled containers.
As beverage manufacturers seek to reduce material usage and environmental impact, can wall thickness has significantly decreased, requiring adjustments in filling technology. “Whereas classic formats could withstand a force of up to 800 newtons during filling valve contact pressure and subsequent filling, a maximum of just 675 newtons can be applied to more modern lightweight cans without damaging them,” explains Andreas Krieg from KHS’ Wet Section Technical Support Department.
To accommodate these changes, KHS has developed a conversion kit allowing existing can fillers to be modified for lighter packaging. The kit includes adapted bell guides with Teflon expansion joints or elastomer seals, depending on the machine’s manufacturing year. Optimized pneumatic cylinders further enable precise pressure adjustments, ensuring machine performance remains stable despite container specification changes.
The conversion process can be integrated into regular maintenance schedules, minimizing downtime for beverage producers. Companies can opt for either adaptation or full valve replacement, depending on operational needs. Additionally, KHS coordinates with Swiss partner Ferrum to adjust seamers required for lightweight can production. “We’re happy to coordinate this for the customer on request, with the components and relevant engineers supplied by Ferrum,” says Krieg.
Following successful market trials earlier this year, KHS has officially made the retrofit available. “Our tests confirm the efficiency and durability generated by this conversion,” Krieg adds. The new service aims to enhance production flexibility while maintaining cost efficiency and sustainability in can filling operations. This initiative underscores KHS’ commitment to advancing packaging solutions that align with evolving industry standards.