| 1 | Seaming Capacity | Select a machine whose rated output matches the required production volume. Typical automatic can seamers range from approximately 20 to more than 100 cans per minute, depending on can size, product, and number of seaming heads. | 18% | Request a continuous-load factory acceptance test using the buyer’s actual can and lid specifications. |
| 2 | Can and Lid Compatibility | The equipment should support the required can diameter, can height, lid profile, material, and dimensional tolerances. Compatibility must be confirmed for each format rather than assumed from a general machine range. | 14% | Compare the approved machine drawing, change-part list, and format range with the buyer’s packaging specifications. |
| 3 | Double-Seam Quality | A qualified supplier should demonstrate stable seam formation, consistent seam width and thickness, acceptable overlap, and controlled internal and external seam appearance. | 16% | Require seam teardown records, inspection procedures, sample measurements, and a documented quality-control plan. |
| 4 | Automation and Controls | Prefer PLC-controlled operation, variable-speed adjustment, recipe management, safety interlocks, alarm history, and clear operator controls. | 10% | Review the control architecture, HMI functions, electrical drawings, software backup policy, and user-access levels. |
| 5 | Hygienic and Structural Design | For food applications, product-contact and splash-zone areas should use suitable corrosion-resistant materials, with accessible surfaces and limited contamination traps. | 10% | Inspect the machine during a factory visit and verify material certificates, cleaning access, drainage, and guarding arrangements. |
| 6 | Safety Compliance | The machine should include fixed guards, emergency-stop devices, access-door interlocks, safe electrical protection, and documented risk-control measures. | 9% | Request a risk assessment, electrical schematic, safety-component list, operating manual, and pre-shipment safety inspection report. |
| 7 | Changeover and Maintainability | Tool-less or low-tool changeover, clear adjustment references, accessible lubrication points, and replaceable wear parts reduce downtime and maintenance effort. | 8% | Measure format-change time during a live demonstration and review the preventive-maintenance schedule and spare-parts list. |
| 8 | Quality Management | A documented quality system should cover incoming materials, machining, assembly, electrical testing, calibration, final inspection, and traceability. | 6% | Check current quality certificates, inspection records, calibration evidence, nonconformance procedures, and production traceability. |
| 9 | After-Sales Service | The supplier should provide installation, commissioning, operator training, troubleshooting support, manuals, remote assistance, and access to critical spare parts. | 5% | Obtain service response targets, training scope, warranty terms, spare-parts lead times, and references from comparable installations. |
| 10 | Total Cost of Ownership | Compare purchase price together with tooling, installation, utilities, labor, maintenance, spare parts, changeover losses, and expected service life. | 4% | Request a five-year cost estimate and compare quotations using the same production capacity, configuration, and acceptance criteria. |