Minnesota-based SOMIC Packaging, Inc. conducted the first Factory Acceptance Test of a retail-ready packaging machine in North America. This process validates the equipment is ready for installation at a customer’s property and ensures a smooth transition for immediate production capability. 

Officials from Goya Foods, the nation’s largest Hispanic-owned food company, witnessed the test procedure. The new 424 T2+ case packaging system is designed to handle the wraparound case packaging needs of stand-up pouches and cartons. It will be installed at Goya’s Seacaucus, New Jersey, manufacturing facility and is expected to be online by July.

The daylong testing program included an early session that involved mechanical and electrical components, a dry cycle run and a pair of format changeovers. The afternoon was reserved for two more specific case packing format changes and final test runs of packaged products.

“The most impressive part about this machine is the compact design and the easy, tool-less changeovers,” said Jason Unanue, Goya’s project manager. “With every single change part utilizing quick disconnects and butterfly screws for adjustments, this makes the process of changing formats very easy and effortless. In return, it eliminates a lot of production downtime. The changeover instructions, along with the provided and organized changeover part carts, also made the process much easier.” 

About SOMIC Packaging, Inc.
With over 40 years of experience, Minnesota-based SOMIC Packaging, Inc. offers design support for cartons, retail-ready and wraparound cases. Many international packaging brands use SOMIC’s advanced mechatronic systems to collate, group and pack open trays, wraparound cases, trays with covers or lid inserts and paperboard cartons. The Parts & Service department is responsible for equipment installation, training and more.