AiCROV
AiCROV Twin SP2 Semi-Automatic Drum & IBC Filling System
AiCROV Twin SP2 Semi-Automatic Drum & IBC Filling System
The AiCROV Twin SP2 is a semi-automatic liquid filling solution designed for manufacturers requiring higher production capacity while retaining flexibility across different industrial container formats.
Semi-Automatic Filling for Drums, IBCs and Industrial Containers
Combining two SP2 weigh-filling machines with an integrated conveyor system, the arrangement allows manufacturers to fill drums, open-top drums and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) with liquid products such as lubricants, oils and greases.
The system is particularly relevant to businesses looking to increase filling output, reduce manual pallet handling and improve the consistency of their filling operations.
A Twin SP2 installation supplied for lubricant manufacturer Moove in the UK demonstrates how two filling stations can be incorporated into a shared production line, providing flexibility across multiple container formats.
E&B works with AiCROV to help UK manufacturers specify suitable drum and IBC filling systems, including the filling equipment, pallet conveyors and wider production-line requirements.
Manufacturers filling industrial liquids often need to handle several container formats within the same production environment.
A lubricant manufacturer, for example, may need to fill smaller drums for distribution alongside larger IBCs for bulk customers.
The challenge is maintaining consistent filling accuracy and production efficiency while accommodating different container sizes, product characteristics and batch requirements.
The AiCROV SP2 is designed to fill suitable containers directly on pallets using integrated weighing technology.
In a Twin SP2 arrangement, two filling stations are incorporated into a coordinated conveyor line, providing additional filling capacity while retaining the flexibility of semi-automatic operation.
This makes the system particularly suitable for medium- and higher-volume operations where a fully robotic filling line may not be necessary.
Key Features of the AiCROV Twin SP2
Two Semi-Automatic Filling Stations
The Twin SP2 arrangement uses two SP2 machines to provide additional filling capacity within a shared production system. Each filling station is based on AiCROV's semi-automatic weigh-filling technology.
Filling Directly on Pallets
Drums and IBCs can be filled while positioned on pallets, reducing the need to transfer individual containers between filling and handling operations.
Integrated Pallet Conveyor System
Powered conveyors move pallets into and out of the filling area, reducing manual pallet movement and helping maintain production flow.
Precision Filling by Weight
The SP2 uses integrated weighing equipment to control the amount of product dispensed into each container. This is particularly relevant for lubricant products where density can vary with temperature.
Multiple Container Formats
The Twin SP2 installation at Moove accommodates drums, open-top drums and IBCs, allowing different packaging formats to be handled within the same production arrangement.
Flexible Filling for Lubricants and Oils
The system can be configured for suitable liquid and viscous products, including lubricant oils and greases.
Operator-Controlled Filling
The operator positions the filling nozzle and initiates the filling cycle, while the machine controls weighing and dispensing.
Configurable Filling-Line Layout
The conveyor arrangement, accumulation capacity and filling stations can be specified around the available production space and operational requirements.
How Does the Twin SP2 Filling System Work?
The Twin SP2 combines operator-assisted filling with automated pallet handling.
A typical operating sequence involves:
Pallet loading
Empty drums or IBCs are positioned on pallets and introduced to the conveyor line.
Automatic pallet transfer
The conveyor system moves the pallet towards the filling station.
Container positioning
The operator aligns the filling nozzle with the appropriate container opening.
Automatic weighing and filling
The machine dispenses the product according to the selected filling recipe and target weight.
Sequential container filling
Where multiple drums are positioned on a pallet, the operator moves between the individual container openings.
Pallet discharge
Once filling is complete, the pallet moves through the conveyor system towards the next production operation.
Downstream handling
Filled containers can be capped, sealed, labelled or transferred to storage and distribution.
The specific operating sequence depends on the installation layout and selected equipment.
Proven UK Installation – Twin SP2 Filling System for Moove
One of the strongest examples of the Twin SP2’s capabilities is AiCROV’s installation for Moove, a lubricant manufacturer operating in the UK.
The project involved two semi-automatic SP2 filling machines connected through a shared conveyor system.
The equipment was designed to handle different lubricant container formats while providing increased production capacity.
The Production Requirement
Moove needed a filling system capable of handling a range of lubricant products and packaging formats.
The installation needed to accommodate:
- Lubricant oils
- Different drum formats
- Open-top drums
- Intermediate bulk containers
- Regular changes between container types
- Higher production output
- Consistent filling by weight
Rather than introducing completely separate filling lines for each container format, the objective was to create a flexible production arrangement using two SP2 filling stations.
The Production Requirement
Moove needed a filling system capable of handling a range of lubricant products and packaging formats.
The installation needed to accommodate:
• Lubricant oils
• Different drum formats
• Open-top drums
• Intermediate bulk containers
• Regular changes between container types
• Higher production output
• Consistent filling by weight
Rather than introducing completely separate filling lines for each container format, the objective was to create a flexible production arrangement using two SP2 filling stations.
The Twin SP2 Solution
AiCROV supplied two semi-automatic SP2 machines incorporated into a common conveyor line.
The arrangement allows palletised containers to be transferred through the filling process while operators control nozzle positioning and filling operations.
Each filling station uses the SP2’s weight-based filling technology.
The shared conveyor system supports the movement of pallets between the filling stations and the wider production area.
Production Performance
AiCROV reports the following combined production capabilities for the Moove installation:
IBC filling
30
IBCs per hour, combined
Drum filling
120
Drums per hour, combined
- These figures relate to the reported installation and should not be interpreted as guaranteed outputs for every product or container format.
Benefits of the Installation
The Moove project demonstrates several advantages of a Twin SP2 arrangement.
Increased filling capacity
Two filling stations provide greater combined output than a single SP2 machine.
Container flexibility
The same installation can accommodate different drum formats and IBCs.
Reduced pallet handling
Conveyor automation reduces the need for manual pallet movement around the filling stations.
Controlled filling:
Weight-based dosing helps maintain consistent filling quantities across different products.
Practical automation
The system combines automated pallet transport and filling control with operator involvement where required.
Practical automation
The system combines automated pallet transport and filling control with operator involvement where required.
The installation has been in service since 2017, demonstrating an established application of AiCROV’s SP2 technology in the UK lubricant industry.
Why Is Filling by Weight Important for Lubricants?
Lubricant oils and greases can behave differently depending on their formulation and operating temperature.
One of the challenges with volume-based filling is that a liquid’s density can change as its temperature changes.
This means a fixed volume does not necessarily represent the same product weight under different conditions.
Weight-based filling provides an alternative by measuring the actual mass dispensed into the container.
For manufacturers selling lubricants by weight or requiring tightly controlled net contents, this can be an important advantage.
AiCROV’s SP2 machines use integrated weighing technology and controlled dispensing to help achieve consistent fill quantities.
The required filling accuracy must still be assessed against the product, target weight and application.
Filling Different Drum and IBC Formats
The SP2 range is designed for suitable palletised containers, including drums, pails and IBCs.
The Twin SP2 configuration can be specified around the formats required by the manufacturer.
Steel and Plastic Drums
Drum filling applications may involve different capacities, openings and container materials.
The filling nozzle and operating arrangement need to suit the drum design and the characteristics of the product.
Open-Top Drums
Open-top drums are commonly used for products where access, viscosity or subsequent handling requirements make this format appropriate.
The filling method should be selected according to the product and container opening.
Intermediate Bulk Containers
IBCs are widely used for storing and transporting industrial liquids in larger quantities.
The SP2 can fill suitable IBCs directly on pallets, with the weighing system controlling the required fill quantity.
Different Products and Batch Sizes
For manufacturers producing several lubricant formulations, the ability to change between filling recipes and container formats is an important part of production flexibility.
The SP2 control system supports recipe-based filling parameters, allowing suitable settings to be selected for different products and containers.
Steel and Plastic Drums
Drum filling applications may involve different capacities, openings and container materials. The filling nozzle and operating arrangement need to suit the drum design and the characteristics of the product.
Open-Top Drums
Open-top drums are commonly used for products where access, viscosity or subsequent handling requirements make this format appropriate. The filling method should be selected according to the product and container opening.
Intermediate Bulk Containers
IBCs are widely used for storing and transporting industrial liquids in larger quantities. The SP2 can fill suitable IBCs directly on pallets, with the weighing system controlling the required fill quantity.
Different Products and Batch Sizes
For manufacturers producing several lubricant formulations, the ability to change between filling recipes and container formats is an important part of production flexibility.
The SP2 control system supports recipe-based filling parameters, allowing suitable settings to be selected for different products and containers.
SP2 Filling Technology and Product Handling
AiCROV’s SP2 technology is designed around accurate weight-based filling and practical operator control.
Filling Nozzle Positioning
The operator positions the filling nozzle over the container opening.
The machine then controls the filling operation according to the selected recipe.
Over-Bunghole Filling
For suitable non-foaming products, filling can take place with the nozzle positioned just inside the container opening.
Immersion Filling
For products that foam or require a different filling approach, an immersion filling assembly can be specified.
The nozzle can be lowered into the container, with the filling sequence configured according to the product’s characteristics.
Automatic Filling Control
AiCROV’s filling software manages the dispensing process and target weight.
This includes functions designed to compensate for the product continuing to flow after the filling valve closes.
Recipe-Based Operation
Filling parameters can be stored for different products and container formats, helping manufacturers manage repeat production requirements.
Filling Nozzle Positioning
The operator positions the filling nozzle over the container opening. The machine then controls the filling operation according to the selected recipe.
Over-Bunghole Filling
For suitable non-foaming products, filling can take place with the nozzle positioned just inside the container opening.
Immersion Filling
For products that foam or require a different filling approach, an immersion filling assembly can be specified. The nozzle can be lowered into the container, with the filling sequence configured according to the product's characteristics.
Automatic Filling Control
AiCROV's filling software manages the dispensing process and target weight. This includes functions designed to compensate for the product continuing to flow after the filling valve closes.
Recipe-Based Operation
Filling parameters can be stored for different products and container formats, helping manufacturers manage repeat production requirements.
Twin SP2 Technical Specifications
The following figures describe the underlying SP2 technology. The Twin SP2 configuration combines two filling machines within a coordinated production line.
| Specification | AiCROV SP2 / Twin SP2 |
|---|---|
| Machine type | Semi-automatic, weight-based filling |
| Configuration | Two SP2 filling stations on a shared conveyor line |
| Container formats | Drums, open-top drums, pails and IBCs, subject to configuration |
| SP2 standard filling range | 20–1,500 litres in current manufacturer information |
| Nominal single-SP2 drum output | Approximately 65 drums/hour at 220 litres |
| Nominal single-SP2 IBC output | Approximately 15 IBCs/hour at 1,200 litres |
| Moove Twin SP2 reported drum output | 120 drums/hour combined |
| Moove Twin SP2 reported IBC output | 30 IBCs/hour combined |
| Filling principle | Net-weight filling |
| Scale division | 50 g |
| Filling height adjustment | 550 mm, servo-controlled |
| Product temperature range | 0℃ to +130℃ |
| Operating temperature range | −10℃ to +45℃ |
| Product connection | 1½-inch male camlock |
| Compressed air requirement | 6 bar, subject to project specification |
| Available filling arrangements | Over-bunghole and immersion filling |
| Explosion-protected configuration | Available where specified |
| Conveyor integration | Integrated pallet conveyor control |
SP2 specifications are based on AiCROV’s published technical information. The Twin SP2 performance figures are specific to the Moove installation. Actual specifications and output should be confirmed for each project.
Conveyor Automation and Pallet Handling
One of the principal benefits of the SP2 system is its integration with pallet conveyor technology.
Instead of relying on an operator to move every pallet into and out of the filling area using a pallet truck, the system can transfer pallets through the production process automatically, subject to operator-controlled movement.
The conveyor arrangement may incorporate:
- Pallet infeed
- Accumulation conveyors
- Weighing conveyors
- Filling stations
- Pallet discharge
- Downstream accumulation
- Interfaces with additional packaging equipment
The appropriate layout depends on production capacity, available floor space and the way containers are supplied and removed.
In a Twin SP2 installation, the relationship between the two filling stations and the shared conveyor system is particularly important.
The system needs to provide sufficient container flow to keep both filling stations productive without creating unnecessary congestion.
When Should You Consider a Twin SP2 Rather Than a Single Filling Machine?
A single SP2 machine may be appropriate where production volumes are moderate and the required output can be achieved with one filling station.
A Twin SP2 arrangement becomes relevant where a manufacturer needs greater combined output or additional flexibility.
Typical reasons to consider a twin configuration include:
- Increasing drum or IBC filling capacity
- Handling different container formats
- Supporting multiple lubricant products
- Reducing reliance on manual pallet transport
- Improving the utilisation of existing production space
- Creating a more integrated filling operation
The decision should be based on the actual production requirement rather than simply selecting the machine with the highest published output.
For some applications, a single SP2 or a more automated filling system may be a better fit.
E&B can help assess the available options with AiCROV.
Applications Beyond Lubricants
Although the featured Twin SP2 installation is used for lubricants, the underlying SP2 technology can be configured for other suitable industrial liquids.
Potential applications include:
Lubricants, Oils and Greases
Filling industrial lubricants and related products into drums and IBCs.
Chemical Products
Weight-based filling of suitable chemical products, with machinery specified according to the required materials and safety measures.
Petrochemical Products
Filling suitable petrochemical liquids into industrial containers, including applications requiring explosion-protected equipment.
Detergents and Cleaning Products
Filling suitable liquid cleaning formulations, including products requiring particular attention to foaming behaviour.
Industrial Ingredients
Filling suitable liquid and viscous ingredients for manufacturing and distribution. The machine configuration must be assessed against the specific product and production environment.
Why Choose E&B for AiCROV Drum and IBC Filling Machinery?
E&B is AiCROV’s UK sales and service partner, providing local support for manufacturers investing in liquid filling machinery.
Working alongside AiCROV’s engineering team, we help customers evaluate filling requirements, select appropriate equipment and plan how the machinery will integrate into the wider production operation.
This includes considering container formats, product characteristics, filling accuracy, production output, pallet handling and any applicable safety requirements.
For manufacturers evaluating a Twin SP2 installation, we can help establish whether two filling stations are justified or whether another configuration would better meet the production requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions About the AiCROV EL2-E
What is the AiCROV Twin SP2?
The Twin SP2 is a configuration using two AiCROV SP2 semi-automatic filling machines within a shared conveyor system, designed to increase filling capacity for suitable drums and IBCs.
What is the difference between a single SP2 and a Twin SP2?
A single SP2 provides one filling station. A Twin SP2 arrangement incorporates two filling stations, allowing higher combined production output where the wider line is appropriately configured.
Is the Twin SP2 fully automatic?
No. The SP2 is a semi-automatic filling machine. Operators position the filling nozzle, while the machine controls weighing and filling. Pallet movement can be automated through the conveyor system.
What containers can the Twin SP2 fill?
The system can be configured for suitable drums, open-top drums, pails and IBCs. The precise range depends on the installation.
How many drums per hour can a Twin SP2 fill?
AiCROV reports a combined output of 120 drums per hour for its Twin SP2 installation at Moove in the UK. Actual output depends on product and container requirements.
Can the Twin SP2 fill IBCs?
Yes. The Moove installation handles IBCs as well as drums, with a reported combined output of 30 IBCs per hour.
Is the Twin SP2 suitable for lubricant oils and greases?
Yes. The featured UK installation is used for lubricant filling. The appropriate filling arrangement depends on the characteristics of the product.
Can the Twin SP2 handle different container sizes?
Yes. The system can be configured for multiple suitable container formats, with recipe-based filling parameters supporting changes between products and containers.
Can the SP2 be supplied for hazardous environments?
Explosion-protected SP2 configurations are available, subject to the applicable hazardous-area assessment and project specification.
Can a Twin SP2 system be integrated into an existing production line?
Yes. The filling stations and conveyors can be configured around suitable existing equipment, subject to layout, controls and integration requirements.
Discuss Your Drum and IBC Filling Requirements with E&B
Whether you are increasing lubricant filling capacity, replacing manual filling processes or planning a new drum and IBC filling line, E&B can help assess the appropriate AiCROV machinery.
From a single SP2 machine to a Twin SP2 configuration or a more automated filling solution, we can help identify equipment that meets your products, container formats and production targets.
Discuss Your Drum and IBC Filling Requirements with E&B
Whether you are increasing lubricant filling capacity, replacing manual filling processes or planning a new drum and IBC filling line, E&B can help assess the appropriate AiCROV machinery.
From a single SP2 machine to a Twin SP2 configuration or a more automated filling solution, we can help identify equipment that meets your products, container formats and production targets.