Manufacturing bottled beverages, such as water or soft drinks, requires a specific machining process. The following is a brief overview of what types of equipment are involved.

The Machinery Used for Beverage Bottling

1. Bottle Preparation Equipment

In addition to glass bottle-blowing equipment and machinery designed to mold plastic polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into its final bottle form, washing equipment is needed to disinfect and clean recycled glass bottles. This is one of the most important parts of the machining process for all types of beverage bottles, as contamination can change the taste of a drink and/or cause serious illness.

2. Water Filtration, Mixing, & Carbonation Equipment

Essential to the machining process for bottling soft drinks is water filtration equipment, which ensures that the water being used is safe and adheres to quality-control standards. After the water is filtered, it’s channeled into large stainless-steel tanks and mixed with other soda ingredients, such as sugar and flavoring. Finally, carbonated dioxide is added to the drink, which is then cooled in ammonia-based refrigeration systems to create the soda’s fizz (carbonation).

3. Filling Equipment

Once the soda is fully carbonated, it’s poured into empty glass or plastic bottles via a filling machine. This machine is typically located in an area separate from the filtration, mixing, and carbonation equipment to avoid the risk of contamination. The machine is fully automated and sometimes includes a capping system to seal the bottles.

4. Conveyor Equipment

Throughout this machining process, a conveyor system is needed to move the bottles from station to station. Because conveyor systems move at very high speeds, they can cause serious injury if a worker gets a piece of clothing or a body part snagged on the belt. This is why most plants require employees to wear special clothing and safety equipment, such as gloves and goggles.

If you need beverage bottling equipment for your business, visit R.A. Heller Co. in Cincinnati, OH. Since 1946, this machining company has provided state-of-the-art industrial equipment to a wide range of businesses throughout the area, from bottling companies and paper manufacturers to melt shops and roll mills. They offer chromium plating, precision grinding, piston rod repairs, and more. Visit their website to learn more about their services and call (513) 771-6100 to speak with a representative today.