Customer Container Handling Challenge 

A beverage manufacturer needed a reliable, high-speed container handling solution to turn empty rectangular PET bottles from a narrow-side-leading position to a wide-side-leading orientation prior to filling. In addition to precise bottle orientation, the packaging line required flexibility to bypass multiple container formats allowing different bottle sizes and shapes to move through the system without interrupting production.

Morrison Solution 

Morrison engineered a dual timing screw system designed specifically for bottle turning applications in beverage packaging environments. The system turned 96 oz. rectangular PET containers 90 degrees while maintaining positive container control at high speeds.

One dedicated pair of timing screws handled the 96 oz. format, while a pair of bypass screws accommodated six additional round and rectangular bottle formats ranging from 8 oz. to 96 oz. The timing screw drive unit supported consistent operation at 205 containers per minute (CPM), with surge capability up to 225 CPM to meet peak production demands.

Construction 

The timing screw system featured stainless steel construction suitable for low washdown beverage packaging environments using mild soap and water. Food-grade UHMW timing and bypass screws promoted smooth bottle flow and repeatable PET container handling. Dual deluxe adjuster mounting allowed fast, precise adjustments during bottle changeovers, reducing downtime between runs. Full stainless steel and Lexan perimeter guarding was integrated to support safe operation on high-speed packaging lines.

Results

The timing screw bottle turning system consistently operated at 205 CPM while reorienting 96 oz. rectangular PET bottles and bypassing six additional bottle formats. The stainless steel construction supported long-term performance in demanding beverage production environments, while integrated guarding contributed to safer operation.

Overall, the solution supported the customer’s throughput, efficiency, and flexibility goals, while aligning with food and beverage industry standards.