Canning Machine : Metal Box MB1A, nr Shipley, Bradford

For canning Curry/ Homebrew /Soups /Tripe etc

One used working MB1A canning machine (aka ‘seamer’ or ’can closing machine’) made by Metal Box. This is a serious heavy-duty traditional no-nonsense commercial seamer, and much more solidly built than the modern-day versions made for the DIY market.

Used by a previous owner to can tripe, and subsequently by me to manufacture home brewing kits (malt extract). It could be used to can curry, soup, vegetables, for example.

Canning can be a capital intensive business. This machine is a cheap and simple way to start canning without having a high initial financial outlay and associated maintenance costs – so ideal for start-ups and for testing the market. It is also ideal for canning experiments. Robust and cheap to maintain.

The manufacturer's Brochure says:

“It is ideally suited to low speed semi automatic production and to laboratory work”.

“Output: dependant on product and operator - up to 10cpm (cans per minute) can be achieved”.

The bearings in the closing head have been replaced recently, and a local canning engineer inspected it and confirmed that it is in good order. The alloy pulley case is original and rare. There’s a crack in one of the Perspex guards. The seamer is bolted to a metal stand which places it at body height.

The filled can is placed by hand on the machine, together with a closing lid. The handle is then pressed, which raises the can into the chuck head. Operating the switch moves the cams in the chuck, crimping the lid onto the can.

This seamer is currently set up to take 401 711 Imperial sized cans ( 99 x 195 mm Metric Equiv’), i.e. cans having a nominal outside dimensions of 41/16” diameter by 7 11/16” high, (standard home-brew beer kit size).

The Brochure states that can diameters of 51-154 mm are possible.

It has a three phase electric motor though this could be simply replaced with a single phase motor, or the existing motor could be retained and run from a single phase supply using a splitter (phase converter). One of the 2 existing 3-phase switches could do with replacing.

Physical dimensions (including the stand): Height: 162cm, Width: 55cm, Depth: 75cm

It comes with the original Metal Box brochure, some ‘How To’ canning literature, some food equipment compatible grease, and a few odds and ends.

£2,600 via PayPal, or cash on collection.

Collection only – other possibilities by mutual agreement.

Located near Shipley, North Bradford, West Yorkshire. Viewing recommended.

I will need notice if you want a demonstration.