These machines bridge the gap between manual and fully automated filling processes. They typically require an operator to initiate each cycle, often involving placing containers under the filling nozzle and starting the process. A common example is a piston filler where an operator positions a bottle, then activates a foot pedal or hand lever to initiate the filling stroke. The machine then dispenses a pre-determined volume of product before returning to its starting position, ready for the next container.
This type of equipment offers enhanced productivity compared to manual filling while requiring a lower initial investment than fully automated systems. It provides a degree of control over the filling process, allowing for adjustments to accommodate different container sizes or product viscosities. Historically, such machines played a crucial role in industrialization by increasing production rates while maintaining a level of flexibility not easily achieved with early fully automated solutions.
