Free Flow vs. Non-Free Flow Products

Understanding the difference between free flow and non-free flow products is essential to choosing the right auger for your needs. Let's dive into the specifics of how these products differ and how our auger fillers are tailored to handle each type effectively.

Non-Free Flow Products

Non-free flow products, such as coffee, flour, and whey protein, do not move easily and require specific auger designs to facilitate their movement. The auger used for these products features a larger diameter flighting at the top, known as overflight, which gradually decreases in diameter as it moves down. This design helps compress and push the product downward, ensuring it flows smoothly through the filler.

The distance between the flights (auger blades) is called the pitch. The product sits in the pitch as it moves down the auger. Adjusting the diameter of the flights and the length of the pitches can control the flow rate and volume of the product. The auger works by turning and pushing the product downward, with the ability to measure precise quantities by turning as little as 1/100th of a turn.

For products that are difficult to fill and do not hold a tight tolerance, an additional scale can be used for enhanced accuracy.

Free Flow Products
Free flow products, such as salt and table sugar, move easily and require a different system to control their flow. Using a non free flow auger for these products would result in them simply flowing out uncontrollably. Instead, a spinner plate system is employed. This system includes a plate mounted at the bottom of the auger to hold the product back. When the auger turns, it spins the product into a collector funnel and down into the container.

Determining Free Flow vs. Non-Free Flow

A simple test can help determine whether a product is free flow or non-free flow. Insert a screwdriver into the product and wiggle it around:

• If the product leaves a hole when the screwdriver is removed, it is non-free flow.

• If the hole fills back in, it is free flow.

This test is effective for about 75% of products. For those difficult-to-classify items, particularly certain spices, feel free to reach out to us for assistance.

Take advantage of our state-of-the-art testing facility to evaluate your product at no cost. We'll determine the optimal auger for filling your product, ensuring the highest efficiency and accuracy. Call now to get started.

Call: (610) 466-1440