SWAN-MATIC 60PC Fixed Speed Capping Machine Instruction Manual
- June 9, 2024
- SWAN-MATIC
Table of Contents
- SWAN-MATIC 60PC Fixed Speed Capping Machine
- Benchtop Capper Setup & Operation
- TORQUE ADJUSTMENT
- MAINTENANCE OF YOUR SWAN-MATIC CAPPER
- SWAN-MATIC CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT TO REDUCE DRIVER INSERT WEAR
- Swan-Matic Capper Upgrade Options
- Bottle and Vial Holders
- Insert Sizing Cart and Cap Toque Spec Guide
- Inserts and Driver Shells
- Frequently Asked Questions
- SWAN-MATIC WARRANTY
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
SWAN-MATIC 60PC Fixed Speed Capping Machine
Benchtop Capper Setup & Operation
Carefully unpack the Capper and any other associated equipment which may be in the container and check for damage. Set the machine on a level surface and remove the red fill plug located on the top left rear of the capper head. Add the two quarts of Gear Oil ( P/N C095 supplied ) into the housing through the fill plug hole (Figure 1.1). The capacity is two quarts Maximum.
Attach the proper sized driver shell with a rubber insert on the lower end of the clutch and fasten it securely with the wrenches provided (Figure 1.2). Connect power to the electric motor after checking to make sure that the voltage marked on the nameplate is the same as the power supply to which the capper will be connected. Run the capper for several minutes at room temperature to thoroughly lubricate the mechanism. The capper should run free and easy with no effort. If it does not, inspect the capper for shipping damage.
Accurate alignment of the container cap to the insert and proper height and torque settings are critical for optimum capping results. Rotate the spindle until it reaches the bottom of its stroke. Place an already capped container under the insert, adjusting the capper height so that the container cap just contacts the insert. The height of the capper head is adjusted by loosening the column locking handle (Figure 1.3) and rotating the adjustment handle (Figure 1.4). With the capped container directly under the insert, slide the backstop assembly (Figure 1.5) up against the container and tighten. Rotate the spindle until you can remove the container. Readjust the capper height directly down 1/8 to 1/4 inch (depending on the dimensions of the cap and container) to allow for over travel. Securely tighten the column locking handle.
TORQUE ADJUSTMENT
Adjust the clutch to set the capper for the desired torque. Hold the clutch
cap (the upper section), either by hand or by using the wrench supplied, and
loosen the center lock ring several turns (Figure 1.2). To increase the
torque, turn the lower clutch section into the clutch cap. To decrease the
torque, back the lower section away from the clutch cap (Figure 3.2). When the
proper torque setting has been obtained, tighten the center lock ring (C032)
to retain the setting.
Important Note: The shell and clutch should always stop momentarily near
the end of each stroke when contact is made with the cap. Excessive rotation
after contact will cause premature insert wear and damage to the cap.
MAINTENANCE OF YOUR SWAN-MATIC CAPPER
Periodic inspection of the oil level in the capper head housing is recommended to ensure that sufficient lubrication is present. The high oil level should be 2 3/8” from the top edge of the housing. We recommend E.P. SAE 80/90 weight gear oil (our P/N CO95) or equivalent. Approximately once every six months, it is recommended that the clutch be disassembled, cleaned, and a good grade of lithium grease be applied to the clutch lining to ensure long life and consistent torque. Excessive grease may seep out of the clutch during operation.
REPLACING SPINDLE OIL SEAL
Always exercise extreme caution when removing the shaft seal to ensure the
shaft itself is not permanently marked or scored. Unscrew and remove the lower
section (C041) of the clutch from the clutch cap (C019) (upper section). This
will expose a bearing (C065) on the lower end of the spindle shaft. This
bearing is held in place with a snap ring on the underside. Remove the snap
ring and press the bearing downward to remove the bearing from the spindle
.The
fiber clutch cone (C016) is held in place with a 3/16” diameter roll pin
(C083). In removing the roll pin, be sure to use a punch of the proper
diameter. Be careful to support the spindle shaft (C021) to assure that it is
not damaged or bent. After the roll pin is removed, the fiber cone and the
remaining clutch parts can be removed from the spindle. The factory recommends
draining the oil before removing the seal to prevent oil loss. The shaft seal
(C059D seen in Figure 2.1) can be removed by puncturing the metal section on
the lower side of the
seal and then prying the seal out of its seat. The seal can also be removed by
drilling several small holes in the metal section of the seal, inserting sheet
metal screws part way in, and then prying the seal out. After removing the
seal from its seat, thoroughly clean the seat and shaft to remove all oil and
foreign material. Inspect the shaft for score marks which could cause
premature seal failure. If any marks cannot be removed by polishing the
spindle, replacement will be required. If this is the case, contact the
factory for parts and the proper procedure at
814-474-5561.
Before installing the new shaft seal, it is recommended that the lower end of
the spindle shaft be covered with a thin coating of oil. This will allow the
shaft seal to slide along the shaft without damaging the seal. The seal should
be installed with the open side up. Before seating the seal, apply a layer of
gasket sealer (i.e., Permatex or equivalent – our P/N C111) to the seat.
Gently tap the shaft seal into place with a hammer and a block of wood or use
Swan-Matic tool C059T (Figure 2.2). Make sure that the shaft seal is not
misaligned and bound in the casting before attempting to seat it. Replace the
clutch in a reverse manner from how it was removed. Lubricate the clutch face
with a good grade of bearing grease (such as Lubriplate or equivalent).
SWAN-MATIC CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT TO REDUCE DRIVER INSERT WEAR
One of the main contributing factors to insert wear is improper clutch adjustment. Each Swan-Matic capper has an adjustable clutch above the driver shell. Proper clutch torque adjustment is essential for an insert’s proper wear time. Another contributing factor that shortens insert life is dirt, oil or any liquids. Wipe out the insert occasionally with isopropyl alcohol and a clean cloth. Many solvents in the products will attack the rubber insert also, causing it to swell and then break off when used for tightening. In some cases, this can be overcome with the use of a metallic serrated driver shell instead of rubber inserts. For a quotation, send 12 sample caps and two bottles to the Swan-Matic Division at our Fairview address.
TO ADJUST THE CLUTCH:
- Loosen the clutch lock nut (C032) two turns.
- Standing in front of the machine with a wrench in each hand. Place your right hand wrench on the wrench flat at the top of C019 and left right hand wrench on the wrench flats at the bottom on of C041. Bring the two wrenches together to decrease torque and push them apart to increase torque on your cap. (See fig. 3.2)
- To increase the applied torque, tighten either wrench. To decrease the torque, loosen each wrench. (Clutch cap, body and lock nut have right-hand threads.)
- After each adjustment, hand tighten the clutch lock nut.
- To adjust the height of the capping head to allow for different sized containers, stop the spindle at its lowest point and lower the machine head until the insert touches a hand-tightened cap.
- Tighten the column clamp (Page 1 Fig. 1.3) to hold the head in position.
- Raise the spindle (C021) and the insert by turning on the machine, and then remove the container and cap.
- Lower the machine head about 1/8 inch and retighten it.
- Cycle the capper to tighten a cap onto a container. The shell and insert will stop rotating when the cap is tight.
- If the clutch does not stop rotating at the bottom of the stroke and the cap is tight, the insert will wear rapidly. If this happens, loosen the clutch slightly. If you cannot see the shell stop, draw vertical lines on it with a marker to help you see when the shell stops turning.
Swan-Matic Capper Upgrade Options
Precision Magnetic Hysteresis Clutch
The C390 magnetic hysteresis clutch was developed to provide precise torque
for capping applications. It features dial torque setting that provide
repeatable cap torque accuracy to +/- 0.1 in-lbs. The Model C390 clutch is
adjustable from 0.5 inch-pounds to 12 inch-pounds. The Model C392 is
adjustable from 4 inch-pound to 40 inch-pound. Maximum shaft speed on the
Model C300 Swan-Matic capper for intermittent applications at maximum torque
is 500 RPM
Spindle Safety Guards
Spindle guards provides an added safety element for Swan-Matic users by
minimizing contact with the spindles. Spindle guards can easily be placed over
spindles and simply tighten for use.
Bottle and Vial Holders
HQ Series Quick Load Bottle Holder
HQ series bottle holders are made designed for fast loading and unloading of
smaller bottles. The open front design of the HQ series makes it the most
efficient quick loading holder of its kind. The HQ series works on all Swan-
Matic continuous cycle variable speed cappers. The HQ series comes with a
replaceable vinyl insert which prevents the bottle from spinning. The C190
base plate is required for the HQ series bottle holders. To receive an
accurate quote, send in 12 caps and 2 empty bottles.
HQS Series Quick Load Bottle Holder for C316E Switch
HQS series bottle holders are designed for fast loading and unloading of
smaller bottles. In addition to the standard features of the HQ series, the
HQS Series incorporates the C316E bottle switch that is used on the C300 Swan-
Matic cappers. The HQS series quick load bottle holder can either be purchased
with or without a C316E switch. Having the C316E pre-installed allows for
quick change overs (one plug) from the “V” block bottle switch to the HQS
bottle holder. (If the HQS bottle holder is purchased without the switch, the
C316E on a currently owned C300 capper can be used by removing the C316E from
the “V” block and screwed into the HQS bottle holder.) The C190 base plate is
required for the HQS series bottle holders. To receive an accurate quote, send
in 12 caps and 2 empty bottles. . (Only fits C300 Models)
Vial Holders
Swan-Matic Bottle Capping Machines and Equipment designs and manufactures
bottle holders for any style and size bottle. Whether it’s 1 or 100, we can
make bottle holders for every application. To receive an accurate quote, send
in 12 caps and 2 empty bottles to: Swan-Matic Test Lab, 7050 West Ridge Road,
Fairview, PA 16415.
HM Series Vial Holder
Swan-Matic also makes multiple position vial holders. This allows an operator
to load the vial holder with 4 or 8 vials and push the holder into the cappers
“V” block switch. After each cycle of the capper, the operator rotates the
holder and pushes it back into the switch block. This assures the cap is
consistently and safely torqued down each time. To receive an accurate quote,
send in 12 caps and 2 empty bottles
Insert Sizing Cart and Cap Toque Spec Guide
Our inserts are in stock and ready to ship
Measure the diameter of the cap and select an insert that has a range that
includes that diameter
PRODUCTION NOTES
Although they may last longer, harder inserts are not always better. Harder
inserts do not grip as well as lower durometer (softer) inserts. The friction
caused by the harder material can damage; even burn, the edges of plastic
caps.
Inserts and Driver Shells
Driver shells
Aluminum driver shells thread onto all Cap-Master Capping Machines and accept
replaceable urethane, vinyl, and rubber inserts. A complete range of driver
shells and renewable driver inserts are kept IN-STOCK. From 6mm to 145mm size
caps, Swan-Matic will have what you need in stock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do I call for technical support?
Call during normal hours. 814-474-5561.
Monday thru Friday 8am to 4pm.
Where can I get my benchtop capper rebuilt?
Make sure the oil is drained from the capper. Capper must be shipped upright
on a skid by Freight only. Include contact information and return shipping
address.
Send capper to:
- Swan-Matic (rebuild)
- 7050 West Ridge Rd
- Fairview, PA 16415
Where can I get my handheld capper rebuilt?
Pack capper in a box and ship to below address. Include contact information
and return shipping address label. Allow 2-3 weeks for repair.
Send capper to:
- Swan-Matic (rebuild)
- 7050 West Ridge Rd
- Fairview, PA 16415
How fast can a handheld capper cap?
A handheld capper can do 1 bottle a second. The actual rate is determined by
the operator.
How fast can a benchtop capper cap?
A benchtop capper can do 55 bottles a minute. The actual rate is determined by
the operator.
What is the life expectancy of an insert?
The life of an insert is determined by several factors. Torque specs, work
conditions, cap texture, insert material and clutch settings. The number one
killer of inserts is improper clutch settings. The general rules is the insert
should never slip on the cap. The clutch should disengage before the insert
slips on the cap. To help get the maximum life out of your inserts, send 12
caps and 2 containers to Swan-Matic testing labs for a free evaluation of your
application.
Send caps to:
- Swan-Matic Test Lab
- 7050 West Ridge Rd
- Fairview, PA 16415
How do I measure cap torque?
Swan-Matic offers a variety of torque testers. Contact Swan-Matic to find the
one best for you.
Does Swan-Matic have cappers that remove caps?
Yes. Several cappers in the Swan-Matic line up have a reversing (de-capping)
feature.
Does Swan-Matic have corrosion resistant cappers?
Yes. Any Swan-Matic benchtop capper can be Nickel Coated to make it resistant
to chemical wash downs.
Does Swan-Matic have explosion proof cappers?
Yes. The C500 and C400 series capper have multiple hazardous ratings.
How do I set the height of my capper correctly to the bottle?
With the spindle in the lowest position, lower the head of the capper until
the insert touches the closure lid. Then lower the head 1/8 of an inch more.
Tighten locking handle on column.
How can I pay for my capper?
Swan-Matic accepts All major credit cards.
What can I do if my capper is leaking oil ?
You can send you capper into Swan-Matic for repair or follow the seal
replacement instructions in this manual.
What is your warranty on cappers?
Refer to last page of this manual.
How do I check the oil level in my capper?
All benchtop Swan-Matic Cappers hold 2 quarts of 80W-90 gear oil. The oil
level should never change as long as the capper is not leaking. Oil should be
changed once year or every 1 million cycles. The full level is 2.375” from the
top of the fill hole.
Why won’t my caps tight anymore?
A broken main spring (C011) in the capper head. This spring breaks when the
capper head is set to low. That can be tested without taking the machine
apart. Set the spindle shaft in the lowest position. Place your hands under
the clutch housing and lift up.
If it moves up and down easily (about 1 inch), then the C011 spring is most
likely broken. Other broken components in the head assembly can give the same
test results.
The clutch cone itself has gotten too much oil or grease on it. Wipe off the
clutch cone (C016) and the interior of the clutch cup (C017) and reassemble.
There should be grease on the Spring (C018), the pins (C082) and the bearing
(C065). The insert material is not matched to the cap.
Swan-Matic offers 5 different types of material that inserts are made from.
Refer to the Inserts and Driver Shells page for an explanation of each type if
insert. To get the best match, send in 12 caps, 2 containers and your contact
information to:
- Swan-Matic Test Lab
- 7050 West Ridge Rd
- Fairview, PA 16415
The insert has worn down.
As the insert wears, the pressure on the cap is reduced because the distance
from the insert to the cap increases. To correct it, just move the head of the
capper down slightly or install a new insert.
Capper head is set to low.
If the capper is pressing too hard on the container being capped, it can cause
the threads of the container to bind with the cap threads.
The insert is slipping inside the driver shell.
Clean the driver shell out and replace the insert
SWAN-MATIC WARRANTY
Automation Devices, Inc. warrants the materials and goods supplied under the
subject customer’s purchase order to be as specified and of good quality. No
specific time life shall be stated, since the results of good workmanship are
of timeless age, and good quality, properly used, shall be self evident.
This warranty does not cover damage resulting from accident, transportation,
normal wear of parts, negligent use or misuse of the product, incorrect
electrical voltage or current, usage contrary to operating instructions,
alterations or repairs by other than Automation Devices, Inc., factory
personnel. In the case of transportation damage, please pursue recovery for
damage through your freight carrier.
If the product should become defective, we will repair or replace it, at our
option, free of charge. This service is available by returning the product to
our factory, freight prepaid, and we will return your product to you, freight
collect.
This warranty does not include cost of inconvenience, damage due to product
failure, transportation damage, or the like. This warranty applies only to the
physical repair or replacement of the defective goods and specifically
excludes any incidental or consequential damages or additional liability
thereof. Some states do not allow exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages. This warranty also gives specific legal rights,
although you may have other rights, which vary from state to state.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- The capper is shipped without oil. The two quarts supplied with the machine must be added to the machine before operating.
- An Allen head or s qu are h ea d drain plug is located behind the spindle o n the underside of the housing (Figure 2.3).
- If the capper is to be returned for repair, the oil must be drained. The capper must be shipped in a upright position. Preferably on a skid and by freight courier,
CONTACT INFO
- Automation Devices 7050 West Ridge Rd Fairview,
- PA. 16415 814-474-5561
- www.swanmatic.com
Need help with your Swan-Matic Capper? Call 814-474-5561 or visit www.swanmatic.com
References
- Bottle Capping Machines, Accessories, and Equipment | Swan Matic – Swan-Matic
- Bottle Capping Machines, Accessories, and Equipment | Swan Matic – Swan-Matic
- Continuous Cycle Capping Machines | Swan-Matic
- Single Cycle Capping Machines | Swan Matic – Swan-Matic
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