SWAN-MATIC C400 Air Operated Capping Machine Instruction Manual

SWAN-MATIC C400 Air Operated 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 to a ½ inch airline. Open the main air valve (Figure 1.6). Run the capper for several minutes at room temperature to thoroughly lubricate the mechanism. The capper should run free and easily 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.

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.

Need help with your Swan-Matic Capper? Call 814-474-5561 or visit www.swanmatic.com

SWAN-MATIC C325AIR BACKSTOP ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
The C325AIR Backstop Assembly is used on the Model C400 Single Cycle Air Capper to initiate the capping cycle. The assembly consists of a V-shaped backstop casting, a C417 Limit Switch, a C318 Actuator, and a C046A Rubber Matte. The container to be capped is placed firmly into position against the “V” portion of the backstop casting. To initiate the capper’s action, depress the actuator on the backstop by placing the container firmly against it. Once the container is in position, the capper will descend, rotate the cap to the preset torque, return to its normal rest position, and then stop. As a safety feature, the machine will stop if the actuator is released during the cycle. The backstop assembly accommodates containers from 1 inch to 6 inches in diameter. The position of the backstop assembly is adjustable. Before adjusting the backstop assembly, turn the air supply off.

Swan-Matic Capper Accessories, Consumables and Repair Parts 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 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.

Insert and Driver Shell Types

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.

Polyurethane

Exhibits excellent wear properties and leaves little to no residue or particulates ensuring an unmarked closure. Thru special order, durometers up to 80-85 are available on request.

Durometer 45-55

Vinyl Insert

Offers grip on caps where polyurethane may slip. Generally suggested for caps that feature smooth contact surfaces. These may be deliveried in light or dark green.

Durometer 45-55

white Rubber
Often matched to applications with white closures or caps to avoid marking. Suggested for smooth contact surfaces or minor serrations.

Durometer 50-60

Tan Rubber
This is the hardest of the rubber inserts and is suggested for metal caps with serrations or very abrasive applications.

Durometer 70-80

Serrated Driver Shells.

• Serrated driver shells are a long-term replacement for inserts and driver shells. They give you a positive grip on your caps which results in very consistent torques throughout your production runs. Custom designed for each different cap, they can be made from aluminum, steel or stainless steel.

Custom Bored Rubber and Vinyl Inserts Custom bored inserts can be made in one day to fit your application without going through the expense of mold charges. These inserts are typically used on dropper caps and pump sprayer bottles.

Pump Sprayer Production Insert

• Available in 6 Sizes ID
• PSO1 .840″
• PS02 .840″
• PS03 .880″
• PS04.940″
• PSOS .970″
• PSO6 .500″

Insert Sizing Cart and Cap Toque Spec Guide

Our inserts are in stock and ready to ship Measure the diameter of the cap or closure and select an insert or driver shell that has a range that includes that diameter.

• FOR BETTER RESULTS: When the diameter of your cap/closure is close to the Insert’s Upper Cap Range, choose the next larger size insert and shell.
• FOR BEST RESULTS: Send 12 sample caps and 2 bottles and our engineers will make a recommendation.

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 d amage; even burn, the edges of plastic caps.

CONTACT INFO

• Automation Devices 7050 West Ridge Rd Fairview, PA. 16415 814-474-5561
• www.swanmatic.com

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 washdowns.

Does Swan-Matic have explosion-proof cappers?
Yes. The C500 and C400 series capper has 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 the locking handle on the 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 thelowest 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.

In A Pinch Trick
Using a standard Sharpie Marker. Place your thumb above the stop line, as shown in the picture below. Using your thumb as a stop, put the marker into the fill hole. The capper is full when oil appears on the tip of the marker.

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.

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

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