Filling machines: describe what they filled and what is supplied
- Reading time
- 3 minutes
- Last reviewed
On this page
A filling machine's previous liquid and container tell a buyer more than a broad “bottle filler” label. Record both, along with the filling method, fitted nozzles and contact-part information.
The aim is to describe a particular machine and its past application. It is not to promise that it can fill a new product because that product looks similar to the old one.
A change from one liquid to another can raise questions about nozzles, seals, containers and cleaning. Give the buyer enough evidence to put those questions to the manufacturer or a competent specialist.
Identify the filling principle
A volumetric system measures a quantity to dispense. A vacuum-level system works towards a fill level in a suitable container. Universal Filling Machine Company's technical guidance explains this distinction and the importance of container rigidity, liquid properties and nozzle choice.
For the seller, the practical point is simple: do not use “same fill height” and “same fill volume” interchangeably. Record the manufacturer's description of the actual model.
The same guidance notes that seals, hoses and nozzle designs depend on the application. A stainless-steel exterior therefore tells only part of the story about the product-contact path.
Keep any past accuracy or output figures attached to their source and conditions. A dated production record is not a promise of the same result with a buyer's product.
Connect the product history to the supplied parts
| Record | Information to collect |
|---|---|
| Previous liquid | Product identity or meaningful description, with dates where available |
| Container | Material, shape, opening and documented format reference |
| Filling arrangement | Machine method, fitted heads and supplied controls |
| Nozzle inventory | Identified nozzle sets, quantities and known applications |
| Contact components | Available hose, seal and valve specifications |
| Cleaning evidence | Dated records, scope and unresolved questions |
| Known limitations | Faults, missing parts and unverified functions |
Record a confidential product history through an agreed disclosure process where necessary. Removing a customer name from public copy should not mean hiding information needed for a responsible assessment.
The previous contents guide helps organise sensitive or incomplete histories. Do not substitute “food use” for a more specific record that exists.
Check the nozzle set against the advertised format
A machine may have several nozzle sets stored nearby. Identify which are fitted, which are included and which remain unverified.
Use the change parts manifest for loose components. Link any bottle guides or handling parts to the same format reference as the nozzle record.
A production team member's recollection can help locate the evidence, but distinguish recollection from a confirmed part reference. If no one can identify a set, describe it as unidentified rather than assigning it to the most likely machine.
Avoid a new-product demonstration improvised for a sales enquiry. Trials need the appropriate technical and site arrangements. A buyer's proposed product may require a different assessment from the old production run.
Define the surrounding equipment
State whether the supply vessel, hopper, pump, capper or conveyor is included. If a tank is part of the offer, use the process tank guide to describe its history separately.
A filling machine connected to a central supply does not necessarily come with that supply equipment. Photographing the whole installation without a clear boundary can create the wrong expectation.
Likewise, labellers and coding systems need their own hardware and data inventories. Their presence downstream does not establish that their software or customer templates transfer with the filler.
Present the machine as it stands
The sale file should let a buyer distinguish confirmed equipment, historical use and questions still needing specialist attention. Clear gaps are preferable to general assurances such as “suitable for all liquids” or “ready for food production”.
UK Auction Group can discuss the asset with the product-history table and nozzle inventory. Include the available cleaning records and any missing components before deciding how the filling package should be marketed.
Return to the manufacturing and process equipment hub.
Sources
This guide gives general information. Equipment-specific, legal, tax and safety decisions may need a qualified adviser or competent specialist. The guides do not promise sale prices, fees or results.