Direct answer
Find the first point where the pack loses control. Minimise unsupported gaps and height steps, match conveyor speeds, guide the stable part of the pack, control back pressure and test the complete stop, accumulation and restart sequence.
Why this matters
The visible jam may occur metres after the initial wobble. Product fill level, cap, label, temperature and container stiffness can all change centre of gravity and friction.
Decision table
| Pack feature | Risk | Design response |
|---|---|---|
| Small or uneven base | Catches or tips at dead plate | Reduce gap and support base |
| High centre of gravity | Wobble during speed change | Gentle acceleration and guides |
| Flexible sidewall | Damage under side pressure | Low-pressure control |
| Wet or oily surface | Variable friction | Suitable belt and drainage |
| Pouch or bag | Snagging and poor datum | Support and controlled pitch |
Information to collect
- Measure the actual filled pack, not an empty sample.
- Record base contact and centre of gravity.
- Film transfers from side and above.
- Measure gaps, levels and speed ratios.
- Check guide contact with labels, shoulders and handles.
- Test start, stop, accumulation and restart.
Practical method
- 1
Correct the first unstable transfer.
- 2
Use the minimum guide pressure needed.
- 3
Synchronise adjacent conveyor speeds.
- 4
Support the pack through changes of direction.
- 5
Validate the least stable production format.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Adding more side pressure to every fault.
- Testing empty containers only.
- Leaving a catch point at a dead plate.
- Ignoring surface moisture or oil.
- Fixing the final jam instead of the initial wobble.
Questions people also ask
What is product pitch?
The centre-to-centre or leading-edge spacing occupied by each pack on the conveyor.
Why do full bottles behave differently?
Fill quantity and distribution change mass, centre of gravity and dynamic movement.
Should guides touch the bottle tightly?
They should control the pack without deformation, scuffing or trapping labels.
How should a transfer be tested?
Run the least stable pack through normal speed changes, queueing and restart while recording the first loss of control.
Continue from the requirement to the equipment
Use the specialist route that matches the product, pack and process. Final suitability requires representative samples, output targets and site information.