When choosing a canning machine, 2-in-1 can filling machines and split-type can filling machines each have their advantages. The 2-in-1 can filling machine is ideal for carbonated beverages like beer, saving space and minimizing CO2 loss, but it requires a higher initial investment. The split-type can filling machine is more versatile for various products but needs more space and operators. Key factors like product type, capacity needs, space, budget, and future expansion plans should be considered. The right choice can significantly impact a company’s production efficiency and market competitiveness over the next decade.
A Deep Dive by a 20-Year Industry Expert: How a Small Choice Today Could Shape Your Business for the Next Decade
In the beverage industry, one critical decision can impact a company’s production efficiency, product quality, and market competitiveness—choosing the right canning machine. With 20 years of experience in the beverage machinery field, I have been asked countless times by clients: should we go with a 2-in-1 can filling machine (integrated filler + seamer) or a split type can filling machine (separate filler + seamer)?
This decision is especially difficult for companies producing beer, carbonated water, and energy drinks when establishing new production lines. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but through this in-depth analysis, I will help you find the optimal solution tailored to your company’s needs.
2-in-1 Can Filling Machine vs. Split Type Can Filling Machine: The Core Differences at a Glance
To help you quickly grasp the key differences between the two systems, I have prepared the following comparison table:
| Feature | 2-in-1 Can Filling Machine (Integrated Filler-Sealer) | Split Type Can Filling Machine (Separate Filler + Seamer) |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment Structure | Filler and seamer are integrated within a single main frame, sharing a control system | Filler and seamer are independent machines, connected via a conveyor system |
| Footprint | Compact design, saves 30%-50% space (for 2000 cans/hour line: ~6×4 meters) | Requires more space (same capacity: ~8×5 meters) |
| Product Compatibility | Best for carbonated beverages like beer, sodas, sparkling water, etc. | More versatile: works with both carbonated and non-carbonated drinks, high-viscosity liquids, and beverages with pulp |
| Filling Method | Primarily isobaric filling, liquid cylinder structure, CO2 pre-purge | Multiple options: normal/negative/positive pressure, highly flexible |
| Production Capacity | Common range: 2000-6000 cans/hour (500ml) | Single machine usually 2000-4000 cans/hour, higher capacities require multi-stage setups |
| High-end: Can reach up to 120,000 cans/hour (multi-machine combinations) | ||
| Filling Accuracy | ±2mm liquid level, CO2 loss <0.05% | ±3mm liquid level, depends on the stability of intermediate conveying |
| Oxygen Intake | <0.02mg/L (beer), minimal oxidation risk due to immediate sealing | 0.05-0.1mg/L, potential exposure to air between filling and sealing increases oxidation risk |
| Operating Costs | Lower energy consumption (single machine operation), fewer operators required (1 person) | Higher energy consumption (multi-machine operation), typically requires 2 operators |
| Maintenance | Single-point maintenance but requires specialized technical knowledge | Segmental maintenance, simpler mechanical structure, easier to repair |
| Changeover Time | Can-type changeover in about 15-30 minutes (modern systems have quick changeover features) | Changeover requires segment adjustments, taking about 45-60 minutes |
| Scrap Rate | Typically <0.5% (due to immediate sealing reducing contamination risk) | Typically 0.8%-1.2% (risk of can falls or jams in intermediate conveyors) |
| Automation Level | Fully automatic PLC control, high level of intelligence, comprehensive data collection | Segment control, may require additional integration, less complete data collection |
Key Decision Factors: 5 Core Questions to Consider
Based on my 20 years of industry experience, the following factors must be considered when choosing the right equipment:
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Product Type: Carbonated or Non-Carbonated?
For carbonated drinks (beer, sodas), a 2-in-1 can filling machine with isobaric filling ensures CO2 content remains stable, making it the best choice.
For non-carbonated drinks (juices, plant-based drinks), either system can work, but a split type can filling machine has an advantage when handling high-viscosity liquids or drinks with pulp. -
Capacity Requirements: What’s your current and future demand?
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Below 2000 cans/hour: Consider a split type can filling machine.
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2000-6000 cans/hour: A 2-in-1 can filling machine is ideal.
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Above 6000 cans/hour: A more thorough evaluation of product characteristics and facility conditions is required.
Market-leading equipment can even produce up to 400 cans per minute (24,000 cans/hour), and some lines can reach 20,000-40,000 cans per hour, so it’s essential to plan for future expansion.
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Factory Space: How much space do you have?
A split type can filling machine needs more space for the production line layout. If space is limited, a 2-in-1 can filling machine is a smarter choice, as it saves 30%-50% of the footprint, crucial in today’s land-cost-sensitive environment. -
Investment Budget: Don’t just look at initial costs
While a 2-in-1 can filling machine may have higher upfront costs, it typically offers better ROI in the long run by reducing labor costs, minimizing scrap, and improving production efficiency.
Modern 2-in-1 can filling machines use fully automated PLC control and touch-scree
n monitoring, optimizing production processes through data collection and analysis. -
Future Product Plans: What’s your next move?
If you plan to expand your product line (e.g., from water-based drinks to carbonated drinks), selecting equipment with higher flexibility is a smart move. Some advanced machines now offer multi-functional capabilities, handling both carbonated beverages and hot filling.
Choosing the Right Solution for Your Business
Based on your specific needs, here’s my professional recommendation:
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Go for a 2-in-1 Can Filling Machine if:
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You primarily produce carbonated beverages.
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Space is limited in your production facility.
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You value high production efficiency and product consistency.
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You want to minimize labor requirements.
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Consider a Split Type Can Filling Machine if:
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You have a diverse product range with significant variation in product characteristics.
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You have very high capacity requirements (which require multi-stage configurations).
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Your budget is more constrained.
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You have limited technical maintenance capabilities.
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Conclusion: There’s No One-Size-Fits-All, Only the Best Fit
There is no standard answer to whether a split type can filling machine or a 2-in-1 can filling machine is better. The best solution depends on your company’s unique circumstances. As an engineer with years of experience across countless projects, I advise you to carefully consider both your current needs and future expansion plans before making a decision.
This seemingly small equipment choice could significantly shape your company’s competitive position over the next decade. I hope my insights help guide you to the right decision.
If you have specific production requirements or want further expert advice, feel free to reach out. With my 20 years of experience, I understand that every business is unique, and only a tailored solution can truly boost your competitive edge.
