Ball Dropper with Adjustable Ball Count

Ball Dropper with Adjustable Ball Count

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The ball dropper with adjustable ball count is another project completed by the Solmatic team – this time for our client in Germany. This innovative solution enables flexible automation of the ball insertion process into aerosol cans, which is crucial in the production of technical aerosols and paints.

Client: Technical Aerosol Manufacturer from Germany
Project date: Q1, 2021
Project goal: Automation of the ball insertion process into aerosol cans, with the ability to quickly change the number of balls to adapt to different products.
Challenge:

The production of certain aerosols, such as paints and technical sprays, requires inserting metal or glass balls into the can to allow better mixing before use. The client expected the insertion of four balls per can at a speed of 60 cycles per minute, along with the ability to easily and automatically change the number of inserted balls. The client’s old ball dropper had broken down, forcing them to insert the balls manually, which reduced efficiency and increased production costs.

Work progress
Our Solution:

Ball droppers are typically installed before Automatic Rotary Modules (ARM) or as integrated modules within them. Since the client already had an ARM, our role was to deliver only the ball dropper module. We implemented a modular ball dropping system that allows configuration according to the required number of balls.

Our priority was to minimize downtime and ensure production continuity. The ball dropper module was designed to be easily installed in place of the old unit without prolonged production interruption. This allowed the client to return to full efficiency in a short time.

The implemented technology included:

  • Precise ball positioning and dropping – ensures uniform insertion of the correct number of balls.
  • Ultrasensitive counting sensors – accurately count balls and maintain 60 cycles per minute, regardless of the number of balls per cycle.
  • Modular actuator system – allows the number of dropped balls to be changed with a single switch.
Workplace Safety:

Workplace safety was a key aspect of the project:

  • Safety systems: The ball dropper was equipped with protective covers and emergency stop switches that immediately halt operation in case of unforeseen events.
  • Optimized working conditions: Automation reduced manual handling, increasing operator safety and minimizing accident risk.
  • Standards compliance: The machine meets all requirements of the EU Machinery Directive and is CE marked, ensuring safe use in line with the highest standards.
Result
Results:

Installing the device on the client’s production line and integrating it with the control system delivered the following benefits:

  • Increased flexibility: The client gained the ability to adjust the number of balls to suit various products, enabling the production of a wider range of complex formulations.
  • Reduced changeover time: Changing the number of dropped balls takes less than 10 seconds, significantly boosting operational efficiency.
  • Safety and automation: Full automation reduced manual handling, improving safety and minimizing production errors.
Our Approach:

Our approach to this project was based on understanding that the client needed a fast, effective solution that could be integrated into an existing production line. That’s why we chose a modular ball dropper design, which not only enabled quick installation but also allowed for flexible adjustment of the number of dropped balls depending on production needs.

The modularity of our machines means that whether you buy a complete line or a single unit, you can be sure it will be compatible with our other solutions. Our machines are also compatible with devices from other aerosol equipment suppliers.

Machines used in the project:
  1. Ball Dropper
See project video
Need a solution for yourself? Looking for a competent partner?
Contact our engineers! We will certainly tailor the right device for your line. Email us at sales@solmatic.pl or call +48 32 307 07 41
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