Bottle trial evidence
Bottle scuffing and damage trial guide
Use a controlled pre-trial reference, representative running conditions and post-trial inspection to assess bottle contact without inventing a universal acceptance limit.
Trial objective
Agree what acceptable bottle condition means before the machine runs.
The trial should distinguish existing sample marks from contact introduced by loading, accumulation, guides, orientation or transfer. The result is a qualitative acceptance record unless verified project-specific limits have been supplied.
| Stage | Action | Evidence | Decision |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reference preparation | Select representative bottles from each family and photograph visible panels, label areas, shoulders, bases and moulded features. | Bottle ID, material, dimensions, empty weight and pre-existing marks. | Reference condition agreed before running. |
| Representative running | Run normal loading, sustained feed, downstream backup, stop and restart conditions. | Video of contact points, guide settings and accumulation behaviour. | Conditions reflect the intended production use. |
| Post-run inspection | Inspect the same marked bottle areas under comparable lighting. | Photographs and notes for scuffing, polishing, scratching, denting, deformation or instability. | Accept, adjust and repeat, or select a different route. |
| Worst-format confirmation | Repeat with the lightest, tallest, softest or most presentation-sensitive bottle. | Settings, failures, adjustments and final accepted condition. | Operating envelope reflects the difficult format, not only the easiest sample. |
Inspection record
Keep the surface record tied to the exact machine and format settings.
Bottle family and sample IDs
Machine route, parts, guides and settings
Loading quantity and running condition
Downstream backup and restart condition
Pre/post photographs under consistent lighting
Accepted adjustment or open corrective action
Use this guide with plastic bottle handling, sample testing and the orientation video trial.
Buyer questions
Questions to answer before the trial is accepted.
Does the guide set a universal scuffing limit?
No. The page provides a qualitative inspection method. Any numerical or cosmetic acceptance limit must be agreed for the specific bottle and project.
Why are pre-trial photographs important?
They separate marks already present on the sample from contact introduced during the machine trial.
Which bottle should define the trial boundary?
Include the lightest, tallest, softest or most presentation-sensitive bottle rather than relying only on an easy format.
Should normal downstream backup be included?
Yes. Bottle contact can be different during a queue or stop, so representative backup and restart conditions should be observed.
What happens if the bottle shows unacceptable marking?
Record the contact point, adjust the handling route where appropriate and repeat the same controlled condition before acceptance.