Machine terms
Spindle capper: an inline capping machine that uses rotating wheels to progressively tighten threaded closures. Screw capper: a general term for machinery that tightens screw caps, including semi-automatic and automatic routes.
Chuck capper: a capping machine route where a chuck grips the cap and applies torque. Semi-automatic capper: a machine where an operator usually presents the bottle, cap or both.
Handling terms
Side belts: belts that stabilise bottles through the capping station. Guides: mechanical supports used to control bottle movement. Change parts: parts or settings used to adapt the machine to different bottles or caps.
Bottle stability: the ability of the pack to travel through the line without tipping, twisting, crushing or moving out of alignment.
Torque terms
Application torque: the tightening force applied during capping. Removal torque: the force measured when opening the cap after application. Cross-threading: a closure fault where the cap thread does not correctly engage the bottle thread.
Repeatability: the ability to achieve similar capping results across a production batch.
Feeding terms
Cap elevator: a system that lifts caps for presentation to the capper. Bowl feeder: a vibratory system that orients and feeds caps. Chute: a guided route that delivers caps to the capping station.
Orientation: the position a closure must be in before it can be applied, especially important for trigger sprayers and some pump caps.
Quick answers
Is a spindle capper the same as a screw capper?
A spindle capper is one type of screw capping machine, usually used for inline automatic tightening.
What does cap torque mean?
Torque is the tightening or removal force associated with the closure.
What is cap feeding?
Cap feeding is the method used to present closures to the capping station.