RM-36 vs. RM-48: Which Machine is Right For Me?

Choosing the right rotary filling and sealing machine is a critical decision for any food manufacturing operation. The right equipment can streamline your production, minimize downtime, and scale with your business. The wrong choice can lead to costly interruptions, maintenance headaches, and operational bottlenecks. At Rocket Machine Works, Inc., we’ve built a reputation for reliable, customizable rigid packaging equipment, and two of our most popular models are the RM-36 and the RM-48.

This guide is for food manufacturers, processors, and key decision-makers—from Lead Engineers to COOs—who are searching for durable, American-made packaging solutions. We understand your concerns about performance, reliability, cost, and support. This post will provide a clear comparison of the RM-36 and RM-48 to help you determine which machine is the best fit for your production line.

An Overview of the RM-36 and RM-48

Both the RM-36 and RM-48 are at the core of our rotary filling machine lineup, designed to provide efficient and reliable packaging for a wide range of products. Every machine is designed, engineered, machined, and assembled at our facility in California. A key feature of our design philosophy is the use of widely available, non-proprietary parts. This approach drastically simplifies maintenance and reduces downtime, as you can source replacement parts quickly from standard suppliers.

• The RM-36 Rotary Filling Machine: This model is a versatile workhorse, ideal for small to medium-sized operations or those with moderate production demands. It offers a compact footprint without sacrificing performance or customization options.
• The RM-48 Rotary Filling Machine: Built for higher output, the RM-48 is the solution for larger-scale food manufacturers who need to maximize throughput. It handles greater production volumes while maintaining the same reliability and precision as the RM-36.

Comparing Key Features: RM-36 vs. RM-48

To help you decide, let’s break down the specifications and capabilities of each machine. Understanding these differences will clarify which model aligns with your operational needs.

Both models feature robust stainless steel construction, meet or exceed USDA, NSF, and FDA standards, and can be integrated with add-on equipment like date coders, labelers, and case packers to create a seamless production line.

How to Choose the Right Machine for Your Needs

The decision between the RM-36 and RM-48 ultimately comes down to your specific production requirements and future growth plans.

Assess Your Production Volume

• RM-36: If your production runs require up to 70 containers per minute, the RM-36 offers an excellent balance of speed and efficiency. It’s perfect for businesses that are growing but don’t yet require maximum output.
• RM-48: For operations demanding higher throughput to meet large orders, the RM-48 is the clear choice. Its ability to process up to 100 containers per minute ensures you can keep up with demand without compromising quality.

Consider Your Container Types and Sizes

Both machines are versatile, but your container specifications can guide your choice. The RM-36 is well-suited for standard cup and tray sizes commonly used for products like salsa, hummus, and single-serve desserts. If your product line involves larger containers, such as those for family-sized meals or bulk deli items, the RM-48’s capacity to handle containers up to 6 inches in diameter provides greater flexibility.

Evaluate Your Operational Footprint

Space is a valuable commodity in any manufacturing facility. The RM-36’s compact design makes it an attractive option for plants where floor space is at a premium. The RM-48 requires a larger footprint to accommodate its higher-capacity components, so it’s best suited for facilities with the space to support a high-output production line.

Trust and Support: The Rocket Machine Works Advantage

When you invest in a packaging machine, you’re investing in a long-term partnership. Our clients, including Hello Fresh, Sunny Gems, and Bobby Salazar’s Salsa, trust our equipment to package millions of servings each year. We’ve earned this trust by building machines designed for longevity—some call them the “Honda Accord of the industry” because our piston fillers have been known to run for over a decade with minimal downtime.

Here’s why a partnership with RMW provides peace of mind:

• American-Made Reliability: Being fully designed and built in California means we have complete control over quality. It also means you get the reliability that comes with American engineering.
• Minimal Downtime: We build our machines with non-proprietary parts. We even provide you with a bill of materials complete with hotlinks to suppliers like McMaster-Carr and Grainger. While competitors’ proprietary parts can take weeks to arrive, ours can often be sourced the next day, reducing potential downtime by up to 75%.
• Exceptional Service: As a family-run business, we stand by our work. Our machines come with built-in remote diagnostic capabilities, allowing our technicians to troubleshoot and often resolve issues within hours, not days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the actual throughput difference between the RM-36 and RM-48?

The RM-36 can produce up to 70 containers per minute, while the RM-48 can reach up to 100 containers per minute. The exact rate will depend on your product viscosity, fill volume, and container size.

Can I run a specific container size on these machines?

Yes. The RM-36 handles round containers up to 4.5″ in diameter, and the RM-48 accommodates sizes up to 6″. Both are customizable for various shapes and materials, including plastic, foil, and paper. Contact us to discuss your specific container.

How does maintenance compare to other machines?

Our use of non-proprietary parts is a game-changer. Instead of waiting on a single supplier for a custom component, you can source parts from multiple vendors, often with next-day delivery. This makes maintenance faster and more affordable than with many competing machines.

Are customization options available for unique products?

Absolutely. We pride ourselves on our ability to engineer custom solutions. Whether you need specialized fillers, unique sealing heads, or integration with other equipment, we design our machines to meet your specific needs.

Build a More Efficient Future

Choosing between the RM-36 and RM-48 is a decision about matching the right tool to your production goals. Both machines offer the reliability, durability, and support that Rocket Machine Works is known for. By selecting the right model, you are setting up your operation to minimize downtime, reduce labor costs, and maximize efficiency for years to come.

Ready to find the perfect fit for your production line? Our team is here to help.

Contact us today for a machine consultation or a custom quote, and let’s launch your next packaging project together.