www.refrigeratedfrozenfood.com/articles/98266-pack-expo-2019-las-vegas-how-technology-drives-packaging-growth

PACK EXPO 2019 Las Vegas: How technology drives packaging growth

October 1, 2019

From robotics to automation to accommodating the influx of e-commerce, PACK EXPO Las Vegas showcased technologies designed to drive growth in the cold food and beverage packaging arena.

Produced by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, Reston, Va., PACK EXPO Las Vegas and the co-located Healthcare Packaging EXPO took place Sept. 23-25 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

Here’s a rundown of equipment, materials, technologies and solutions introduced and/or on display at the show:

CONVEYOR SYSTEMS INCREASE PACKAGING, PROCESSING EFFICIENCIES

Dynamic Conveyor, Muskegon, Mich., presented a variety of conveyors to the packaging and processing industries.

On display for the first time was an in-line box filling system, which is capable of filling by part count, cycle count or weight. Offering a smooth transfer of boxes from 0-200 pounds, the systems are automated and allow for unattended operation of accurate filling with simple control setup and an easy-to-read visual indicator.

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DynaClean Sanitary Conveyors showcased how a variety of food products can be effectively and efficiently conveyed to higher elevations. Known for reducing cleaning times by half, DynaClean conveyors offer a patented design that is simple, quick and easy to disassemble and clean. There are no tools needed, no small parts to lose and no nooks and crannies to clean.

Also on display was DynaCon Reconfigurable Conveyors, which offer packagers the ability to build their own conveyors using modules (like Lego building blocks) to configure and later reconfigure conveyor layouts. Conveyor configurations include flat, incline, angle and radius turns. Modules are built using high-strength plastic injection molded parts that are lightweight enough to be easily reconfigured.

Dynamic Conveyor Corp.
800-640-6850
www.dynamicconveyor.com

INSPECTION SYSTEMS FOR BULK, PACKAGED FOODS

Mettler-Toledo Product Inspection, Lutz, Fla., presented a comprehensive range of inspection solutions for bulk and packaged foods and beverages.

New this year, Mettler Toledo showcased a new feature on a metal detector that only visitors to the booth experienced.

Mettler-Toledo also launched its GC Series conveyorized metal detection systems, which provide robust, easy-to-use modular equipment that is readily re-configurable to support future requirements. The systems offer a highly configurable design that can adapt to the changing requirements of the food industry and to manufacturers' needs. They can be supplied with a variety of Safeline metal detectors, polyurethane or modular belts and different reject mechanisms. When selecting from the new GC Series systems portfolio, customers start with a choice of five Safeline metal detectors ranging from solutions for standard applications to options optimized for advanced detection performance. Integrated sensors and reject mechanisms ensure contaminated products are rejected and removed from the production process. Solutions range from simple “stop-on-detection” systems to fully-automated detect-and-reject systems, including pushers and air-blast devices. The GC Series is also designed to minimize risk by allowing quick, effective cleaning processes to be completed. Elements such as the quick release mechanism means conveyor belts can be removed in under 10 minutes, and the tubular, open-frame design and sloping surfaces of the metal detector case minimize dirt traps.

In addition, Mettler Toledo’s Profile Advantage, rated to IP69K, inspected frozen bread as it thawed.

Mettler Toledo also showcased its custom material handling designs and a variety of reject mechanisms, including stop alarm, side diverter, pusher, air blast, retracting band and lift flap.

Mettler Toledo also exhibited its line of metal detectors for vertical gravity flow applications, each incorporating four improvements to increase the productivity, quality and worker safety of the unit.

Also on display was the Mettler Toledo ProdX data collection and management software that can be linked to all systems and monitored on a single PC on-site or remotely.

Mettler-Toledo Product Inspection
800-638-8537
www.mt.com/pi

NON-DESTRUCTIVE LEAK DETECTION EQUIPMENT

INFICON, Syracuse, N.Y., expanded its portfolio of non-destructive leak detection equipment to include the Contura S600, which features an oversized test chamber. Designed to test products sold for bulk retail and foodservice applications as well as large format modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and flexible packages, the system helps manufacturers extend shelf life, prevent recalls and returns and reduce waste.

The S600 model relies on a proprietary differential pressure method to detect both gross and fine leaks and offers a faster, easier and quantifiable alternative to methodologies like water baths and gas-based testing. With the new test chamber, food manufacturers can increase efficiencies by testing multiple products at the same time. The Contura S600 is ideal for a variety of food applications, including pet food, meat and poultry, baked goods, cheese, prepared foods, produce and more.

INFICON
315-434-1100
www.inficon.com

RAIL ADJUSTMENT, CHANGEOVER SOLUTION

Septimatech, Canada, partnered with Arrowhead Systems, Inc., Randolph, Wis., to equip its conveyors with Arrowhead Systems’ Easy Adjust Rails repeatable guide rail adjustment and changeover solution.

The new partnership grew out of an Arrowhead project with a global food products company, which required a guiderail system that offered fast, tool-less, repeatable changeovers for a new packaging line running different products with various container shapes and sizes. Arrowhead’s capabilities in specialty conveyor manufacturing and Septimatech’s intelligence in changeover solutions delivered a product that allowed 200 feet of guide rail to seamlessly convey bottles without locking up in corners or crossovers. The customer can adjust the guide rail in under 10 minutes without tools to any of five different, repeatable settings, including corners and crossovers.

Easy Adjust Rails can be easily installed by OEMs or end users on small or large size conveyor configurations and for tight radius curves and corners.

Septimatech Group, Inc.
888-777-6775
https://septimatech.com

MACHINE VISION SOFTWARE

Beckhoff Automation, Savage, Minn., launched the eXtended Transport System (XTS) into the U.S. market.

XTS combines the advantages of rotary and linear drive principles into a best-of-breed linear transport system that provides paradigm-shifting capabilities for packaging machines and smart factories. The mechatronic solution enables intelligent material flow, exceptional precision, real-time robotics integration and efficient self-reconfiguration based on lot, recipe or other product specifications. Highly customizable and durable motor modules, mechanical guide rails and wireless movers integrate the necessary power electronics, EtherCAT communication and position measurement in a compact form factor, reducing machine footprint up to 50%.

XTS movers can be controlled with high dynamics at velocities reaching 4 m/s and acceleration exceeding 100 m/s². Modular linear motors and rails can create circles, clothoids and S-curves as well as straight, open segments. Supporting installation horizontally, vertically or at angles, tracks can be combined to dynamically manipulate or transport parts with multiple movers.

Beckhoff also showcased new TwinCAT Vision software, which adds comprehensive image processing into the range of machine control programming and runtime in TwinCAT 3. The universal TwinCAT engineering environment and run time permit vision system programming and implementation using languages that controls engineers are familiar with, such as those standardized in IEC 61131-3. With a fully integrated vision solution, TwinCAT offers an end-to-end software platform complete with PLC, motion control, robotics, high-end measurement technology, HMI, Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning.

Beckhoff also displayed updates to its EtherCAT solutions, including EtherCAT G and G10, TSN-ready I/O, ELM high-end measurement modules and TÜV-certified TwinSAFE hardware for integrated machine safety architectures. EtherCAT G and EtherCAT G10 provide communication at 1 and 10 Gbit/s, respectively, in conformance with the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard. An innovative branch controller model supports parallel operation of standard 100 Mbit/s segments with EtherCAT G or G10 as the main trunk, or vice versa.

Also in exhibit were PC-based control hardware and accessories, including CU81xx Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS) Modules and CU8210 WLAN devices. The CU81xx series provides 24 V DC uninterruptible power to Beckhoff components and connected devices, particularly industrial, panel and embedded PCs, and initiates data saving, transfer of processes to defined states and safe shut down if external supply fails.

Beckhoff Automation LLC
952-890-0000
www.beckhoffautomation.com

COMPACT SANITARY VFFS BAGGER

Triangle Package Machinery Co., Chicago, took elements from its existing X-Series vertical-form-fill-seal baggers and designed the new Compact Sanitary Bagger, Model CSB.

This smaller bagging machine can fit inside a narrow footprint and run bags up to 13 inches wide, while still offering durability, flexibility and superior sanitation.

Triangle modified components such as the control box, film cage and machine frame to fit into a narrow frame width of only 36 inches. To achieve maximum benefits, two compact baggers can be installed side by side (as a twin on 35-inch centers), sharing the same scale for filling the bags.

Model CSB runs speeds of 70-plus bags per minute, depending on bag length. When set up this way, two compact baggers can fit on one salad line, 35 inches on center, to produce 120-plus retail packages of leafy greens per minute. This also provides the flexibility to run varying film structures or film rolls, or to perform routine maintenance on one machine without disrupting production on the second machine.

To simplify cleaning and maintenance needs, the bagger is designed to be washed in place.

Additional sanitation benefits include:

Solid stainless-steel bar, fully welded and electropolished after welding;
Frame is solid round bar stock;
Internally mounted guard doors pivot on the frame, minimizing parts to improve sanitation;
Pivoting control box offers easy accessibility;
No slotted fasteners;
Sanitary, 3-A approved leveling feet;

Washdown-rated electronics, including IP67 washdown-rated motors for the pull belts, IP65 washdown-rated motor for the film unwind and a minimum IP67 rating for all other electrical components.

In addition, Triangle utilizes Rockwell controls, as well as optional RFID user management.

Finally, Model CSB also offers optional ultrasonic sealing, which is a cold sealing technology that seals right through product such as leafy greens, virtually eliminating package rejects and rework due to product in the seal.

Triangle Package Machinery Co.
800-621-4170
www.trianglepackage.com

MULTI-APERTURE, MULTI-LANE METAL DETECTION

Fortress Technology, Canada, unveiled how metal detection sensitivity is accomplished by multi-aperture multi-lane innovation, and showcased the latest Interceptor DF system, which delivers optimal food safety whilst helping to eradicate false product rejects.

Rather than channeling multiple lanes through a single metal detector, one Stealth metal detector is mounted across three conveyor lines. Each conveyor has its own BRC-approved reject system, and each aperture operates like a standalone metal detector. This puts a stop to an entire row of good product being rejected and wasted if a contaminated product is identified on one line.

Each aperture is sized as closely as possible to the product. As a result, the system is more sensitive to smaller metal particles and copes better with orientation and product effect.

Fortress also collaborated with Sparc Systems, UK, to design a 5-aperture metal detector combined with a 5-lane checkweigher, helping to reduce product giveaway through over or under filling of pre-packed foods. The system also features contact data software for enhanced traceability, and a mobile app for remote examination to avoid repeat production stoppages.

Meanwhile, the Interceptor DF returned. Inspecting low-profile, high-value foods vertically and horizontally at the same time, the Interceptor DF increases the probability of identifying and rejecting products containing non-spherical metals by over 100%, including difficult-to-spot flat metal flakes.

Fortress Technology
888-220-8737
www.fortresstechnology.com

ROBOTIC PACKAGING SOLUTIONS

PMI KYOTO Packaging Systems, Elk Grove Village, Ill., which was formed after Kyoto Seisakusho Co., Ltd., Japan, acquired PMI Cartoning, Inc., showcased its expanded robotic packaging solutions.

PMI KYOTO offers a wide variety of robotic packaging capabilities, including collation, product handling, case packing, carton loading, palletizing and more, built for specific applications. To meet a variety of specifications, delta or six-axis robots are integrated with cartoners or case packers to provide pick-and-place capabilities as well as automation flexibility.

PMI KYOTO Packaging Systems
847-437-1427
www.pmikyoto.com

VISION-GUIDED CARTONING SYSTEM

JLS Automation, York, Pa., displayed its Peregrine robotic cartoning system.

This vision-guided, high-speed system easily loads flexible bags, flow packs and other primary packages into tri-seal and other style cartons.

In addition, the flexible system minimizes changeover while meeting production needs for small batches. The Peregrine is ideal for several markets, including bakery, frozen foods, prepared foods, protein and ice cream treats.

JLS Automation
717-505-3800
www.jlsautomation.com

PACKAGING MACHINE PROMOTES FLEXIBILITY, AUTOMATION

GEA North America, Northvale, N.J., optimized its TwinTube packaging machine to promote flexibility and automation

The redesigned high-speed vertical packaging machine GEA SmartPacker TwinTube now boasts a future-proof modular system with increased functional efficiency promoting higher operational uptime and ease of use.

The TwinTube is a continuous motion vertical machine, suitable for packaging small-sized food products and on-the-go products in pillow bags of different sizes. It operates with two parallel forming tubes, achieving combined speeds of up to 500 bags per minute (weighing 10-18 grams each). It also runs a different film reel for each tube, meaning calorie packs of different widths or designs can be simultaneously filled.

A new feature to the machine is the Jumbo Roll, which allows film reels of up to 100 kg to be used for long production runs.

The new SmartPacker TwinTube is also equipped with automated web tracking. This means that if the film deviates from its path, due to variances in the film roll, the feature will correct the direction of the film automatically, without the need of manual adjustment.

The new SmartPacker also features a new jaw closing mechanism, optimized heating unit and a vertical rotational seal unit, promoting tightness of the pack seals. The jaw closing mechanism offers more than triple sealing force as the previous one and can apply 6000N. This gives the opportunity to use thicker films or films with more diverse characteristics in terms of sealing requirements.

The new GEA TwinTube is optionally equipped with a new, fully integrated GEA TiroLabel unit, which makes the machine even more compact on the factory floor. The dedicated labeling unit delivers a speed of up to 180 labels per minute at a width of 150 mm and achieves millimeter precision during labeling. The label roll has a quick-release operation, which means it can be changed in seconds with minimal downtime.

GEA North America
800-509-9299
www.gea.com

BLOWMOLDER VISION INSPECTION SYSTEM

Agr International, Butler, Pa., presented the Pilot Vision+, an in-the-blowmolder vision system that is designed to work in conjunction with high-speed re-heat stretch blowmolding equipment. The Pilot Vision+ system offers a modular approach to defect detection that works within the blowmolder. The open architecture allows for simultaneous management of up to 6 cameras in multiple locations. Other features include color preform cameras for managing color variations, simple configuration and operation, large-screen user interface and defect categorization by mold/spindle and defect type. Pilot Vision+ can also be combined with Process Pilot for a total bottle management solution.

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Agr also featured the Process Pilot system with advanced thin-wall capability. Introduced earlier this year, this tool is ideally suited for facilitating the production of ultralight bottles. The Process Pilot system works in conjunction with the blowmolder to continuously measure material distribution on every bottle, and proactively manage the blowmolder to maintain optimal material distribution.

Agr International Inc.
724-482-2163
www.agrintl.com

LEVELERS FOR CONVEYORS & PACKAGING EQUIPMENT

SLIDEWAYS, Worcester, Mass., featured its full range of standard components and levelers for conveyors and packaging equipment, including wear components, guide rails, SlideTrax for side flexing and straight running chain, roller chain guides and sprockets, UHMW profiles, rollers, pulleys, bushings and bearings for harsh environments.

For custom component users, SLIDEWAYS shows an extensive range of unique and proven solutions for mechanical wear, conveying and packaging applications.

Slideways Inc.
800-298-7543
www.slideways.com

FLEXIBLE PACKAGING SOLUTIONS FOR FOOD, BEVERAGE APPLICATIONS

Optima Packaging Group, Germany, presented highly flexible packaging solutions for food and beverages products.

Optima offers a wide range of filling and dosing methods. For example, paste-like and powdered foods are processed in portion packs similar to coffee packaging. Optima also uses robotics, film, foil and plastic processing, as well as “cobots” and converting functions to produce a range of flexible machines from entry-level to fully automated, highly efficient lines.

Optima opened a new logistics center in Schwaebisch Hall, Germany, using comprehensive scientific process engineering (CSPE) to reduce time-to-market and optimize processes.

Optima's Total Care concept includes Smart Services, which include complex simulations during the project-planning phase, as well as the use of virtual reality technologies for supporting maintenance and repairs. The OPAL line management system enables Optima to offer an additional component for highly efficient, long-term processes. The cross-manufacturer 4.0 industry application comprehensively generates and analyzes production data to systematically unlock productivity potential.

OPTIMA packaging group GmbH
+49 (0)791 / 506-1472
www.optima-packaging.com

SANITARY PUMPS

NETZSCH Pumps North America, LLC, Exton, Pa., highlighted its sanitary pumps ideal for a wide range of food applications.

The revolutionary T.SANO rotary lobe pump, for instance, features the FSIP (full-service-in-place) design.

The TORNADO T.SANO boasts a smooth, flat profile rotor that features several options specifically developed to meet the process industry requirements. Self-priming and valve-less, the TORNADO T.SANO is ideal for any kind of liquid, including media-containing gas, solids or fibrous matter, and can be used in intermittent, continuous or metering applications.

The NEMO BY Sanitary Prime pump is an FDA-compliant solution for sensitive, abrasive and high viscosity pumping needs. From low viscosity media to products barely capable of flowing, with or without solid content, shear-sensitive, sticky or abrasive, the NEMO BY Sanitary Prime pump conveys even difficult substance gently and with low pulsation. It is a good choice for high acids, high sugars and low water content, as well as pet foods and raw materials before being processed.

Also on display was the NEMO BH Sanitary Advanced pump, which are ideal for meats, dairy products and sauces, and for any products requiring gentle handling and/or high viscosity. They are appropriate for clean-in-place (CIP) processes, and meet 3A standard requirements.

The NEMO BH Sanitary Advanced Plus pump meets the strictest hygienic standards, and can be used to minimize CIP time. This pump is a good choice for high-risk products, and is ideal for liquid eggs, white mass, cultures and low acid pasteurized or protein products.

The NEMO BO Sanitary Prime Open Hopper pump is an FDA-compliant pump for non-free-flowing applications. Designed with an integrated auger that forces non-flowing product into the pumping area, the NEMO BO Sanitary Prime Hopper pump is ideal for raw material handling, fruits, vegetables, meat emulsions and sticky products.

NETZSCH Pumps North America, LLC
610-363-8010
https://pumps.netzsch.com

MULTI-LANE FORM-FILL-SEAL MACHINES

IMA Dairy & Food, Leominster, Mass., introduced new and enhanced packaging machines.

Hassia’s form-fill-seal (FFS) M-Flex Series F600 Sachet Machine produces 4-sided sealed sachets at speeds up to 80 cycles per minute and on as many as 16 lanes. The F600 also offers single-roll functionality, an improvement over 2-roll formats, and the units run a single wide roll located at floor level for easy changeover and front-and-back sachet registration. The F600 can handle rolls as wide as 1,200 mm with a diameter of 800 mm, which can yield up to 16 hours of run time between roll changes. The F600’s careful product handling makes it suitable for clean-in-place and steam-in-place dosing units. The machine’s control concepts are highly versatile, and include opportunities for integration with customer-specific systems. The unit can handle all common packaging materials suitable for heat-sealing.

Hassia also showcased the other member of the M-Flex Series—the S600 Stick Pack Machine—a multi-lane FFS module for the production of 3-sided stick packages. With a typical processing speed of up to 42,200 stick packs per hour, the S600 complies with customer/product-specific requirements.

Hassia also showcased the P500 Portion Pack Machine, part of its P-Series line of FFS portion pack equipment. Capable of handling web up to 590mm wide at forming depths up to 40mm, the high-performance P500 is suitable for a broad variety of cup designs and materials. A key benefit of the P500 is its use of comparably less packaging material. This is due to a combination of attributes, including its use of forming material of minimal thickness to avoid over-packaging; minimal punch waste from the low-waste punch unit; and volume-saving overlapping packing configuration for boxes and trays. Depending on the specific product, the P500 can achieve speeds up to 108,000 cups per hour.

The P-Series of portion pack machines also includes the P300, which features a new frame and guarding package for easier machine accessibility. Both the P300 and P500 offer hygiene levels up to FDA-filed, low-acid aseptic, and incorporate a new “cell board conveyor” discharge that controls round cups through case packing.

Erca showcased the EFS, a new format flexible indexing platform for pre-formed cups. Modular in design with stainless-steel construction and servo-operations, it allows for flexibility with filling stations, pre-fill and post-fill for wet or dry ingredients. The chainless solution for cup transportation enables format flexibility and precision index positioning throughout the machine. Capable of filling cups up to a diameter of 130mm, the EFS filling and sealing machine is suitable for a broad variety of products such as yogurt, fresh cheese, white cheese (curd), cottage cheese, single and multi-layer desserts, aerated mousse products, deli salads, dips, dressings, hot-filled sauces, soups, jams, fruit purees, pet food and more. Key benefits of the EFS are the format flexibility (quick release, tool free), the chainless drive (no chain stretch, no regular adjustment, less cup cassettes), the modular design and construction, the recipe functionality, the multi-fill possibilities (over track or remote fillers) and its improved hygiene options (UVC, Pulse light, H2O2). The machine will be available in hygiene levels clean or ultra-clean.

IMA Dairy & Food USA, Inc.
978-549-4823
https://imadairyfood.com

CORPORATE BRAND REFRESH, E-COMMERCE TECHNOLOGIES

Signode Industrial Group, Glenview, Ill., introduced its new brand, which consists of a more streamlined business model and groups several products under key application categories such as pack, bundle, unitize, warehouse and transport. Signode plans to further unify offerings under a new company brand identity to showcase integrated solutions fit for the global marketplace.

In addition, Signode highlighted two of its e-commerce technology pairings.

The first transit packaging combination comprises the H. BÖHL orbital stretch wrapper from SPG Packaging Systems GmbH, Germany, and Little David Case Sealer SP-304 from Loveshaw, South Canaan, Pa. The orbital wrapper secures products to trays, while the case sealer enables proper closure and sealing of the protective box. The H. BÖHL orbital stretch wrapper eliminates loose fill packaging material by providing superior load stability. The product is first placed on a suitable tray, with material type, size and weight determined by product, and placed inside the wrapper. The unique orbital design wraps the stretch film over and under the product, tightly securing it to the tray. After the product is placed in the outer box, it is safely secured, minimizing, or in some cases, eliminating additional product protection or dunnage. Engineered for a range of uniform cases and industrial environments, the Little David Case Sealer SP-304 features an automated three-flap folder with universal bottom flap folding bars for fast and uniform closure while automated taping seals the box. Equipped with interchangeable tape cartridges and top squeezer rollers, the Little David Case Sealer SP-304 features an automated CaseLocker ST tape cartridge that requires no lubrication and helps avoid the twisting motions known to cause carpal tunnel syndrome. The tape cartridge’s knife guard system means that workers are not exposed to the blade.

The second transit-packaging pairing features the Octopus Compact 20 automatic rotary ring stretch wrapper from Muller LCS, Glenview, Ill., working in concert with StorFast, Signode’s cart-based, high-density automated storage and retrieval system. Octopus Compact 20 automatic rotary ring stretch wrapper is versatile for a variety of applications and environments. Compact and intuitive, the technology is engineered for manufacturers looking to increase productivity without compromising space or budgets. The modular design of the machine further allows for customized options to solve a host of pallet unitizing challenges.

Signode Industrial Group
800-323-2464
www.signodegroup.com

CASE PACKERS

Douglas Machine, Inc., Alexandria, Minn., showcased four of its cutting-edge machines.

CpONE Intermittent Motion Case Packer consists of 40% fewer parts and 40% fewer change points.

TriVex SL Case Packer is a versatile and innovative retail-ready case packer for pouches and bags.

Spectrum Multipacker is a beverage cartoner and variety pack solution that maximizes output and minimizes labor.

And, Contour M‐60 Multiwrapper enables new robotic product registration and metering system for efficiency, accessibility and flexibility. It also produces film-only shrink bundles in single or multiple lanes for increased throughput.

Douglas Machine Inc.
320-763-6587
www.douglas-machine.com

HIGH-RESOLUTION IMAGING TECHNOLOGY

Peco-InspX, San Carlos, Calif., announced HDRX imaging technology, which captures extremely high-resolution images of products to detect foreign material and minimize false rejects.

HDRX also delivers high image resolution at normal production line speeds within power settings used by traditional x-ray systems used in food and beverage applications.

This automated x-ray inspection technology is available across the Peco-InspX x-ray system product line, including side-view, top-down and dual energy systems.

Peco InspX
877-722-6875
www.pecoinspx.com

SINGLE ROLL WRAPPER PACKAGES TRAYED, TRAYLESS PRODUCTS

The new EDL Model 22-45 single roll product wrapping system from EDL Packaging, a Massman Co., Green Bay, Wis., wraps both trayed and trayless products at rates up to 45 packages per minute. This includes trayed packaged food products, pet foods, dairy products, mixed multipacks and other packaged products, as well as untrayed single products and multipacks of containers.

This new system delivers reliable, repeatable wrapping performance at medium speeds in a real-time production environment, with the ability to accurately control print registration. A welded tubular frame controls vibration to ensure consistent wrapping output and production throughput.

The servo-driven inline system can be easily integrated into an existing production line, and is designed to handle products up to 16 inches in length, 12 inches high and 20 inches wide. The system wraps using 1.5- to 3-mil film in segments up to 55 inches long and 22 inches wide. The SRW 22-45 can wrap products using either clear plastic film, random printed or print-registered film. Trayed products can be wrapped in corrugated trays or on flat pads. During the servo-driven wrapping process, products do not stop, but are in continuous motion as film is applied and cut, maximizing productivity. A high-efficiency shrink tunnel completes the wrap sealing process.

The SRW 22-45 system’s welded tubular steel frame has a powder-coated surface finish. Legs are threaded to be adjustable up to 2 inches for system leveling. Additional options include a film loading cart and an inline cradle splicer for speedy film changeovers.

EDL Packaging Engineers, Inc., a Massman Co.
920-336-7744
www.edlpackaging.com

TOP-ONLY CASE SEALER

Massman Automation Designs, LLC, Vilard, Minn., introduced a new compact HMT-Mini top-only case sealer.

This new sealer incorporates an innovative modular construction that allows specific features of the sealer to be changed out to facilitate future sealer design changes.

The standard HMT-Mini top-seals cases using either glue or tape at speeds of up to 1,500 cases per hour. An optional, more advanced sealer incorporating extended compression seals at rates of up to 3,000 cases per hour. The fully-automatic sealer features robust, heavy-duty construction, speedy changeover to new case sizes and is completely enclosed. The system’s transparent enclosure offers increased visibility of the operation, and interlocked Lexan access doors on either side of the enclosure give greater access to the machinery without sacrificing safety.

The HMT-Mini seals standard cases up to 18 inches long, 16 inches wide and 16 inches deep.

Massman Automation Designs, LLC
320-554-3611
www.massmanllc.com

SEMI-AUTOMATIC DRUM, TOTE FILLING MACHINE

PASE Group Massman, LLC, a Massman Co., Eagan, Minn., announced its Dual Lance Semi-Automatic Drum and Tote Filling Machine, which provides high accuracy semi-automatic net weight filling while allowing for two different products to be filled by the same filling machine. Two precision-made proportional fill lances mounted on separate ball screw drives deliver independent top, inside or bottom filling of drums or totes. This filling machine controls two separate product pumps as needed, as each fill lance operates under its own PLC-based filling recipe. Benefits include fast product changeovers, no product cross-contamination and the ability to fill different size drums with two products on the same pallet, eliminating the need to re-palletize drums later. Machine features include top fill, inside fill or bottom fill operation; HMI mounted on operator-controlled handlebar; 3A-rated stainless-steel fill lances; Allen Bradley PLC for machine control; filling recipe management and machine diagnostics; drip cups and pump controls. Options include explosion-proof controls package, flush stations, pump carts and a wide variety of gravity and smart-powered conveyor packages.

PASE Group also introduced its Automatic Single Drum Filling Machine, which provides net weight filling with automatic bung detection and orientation. This enables the compact filling machine to accept single drums without the need to orientate the bung location by hand. Empty drums feed into the filling machine via a powered conveyor and rotate by an innovative motorized dual-wheel drive system that allows a small overhead laser-based vision system to quickly find the bung location. Once the bung is located, the dual-wheel drive mechanism releases the drum, and is quickly tared and automatically net-weight-filled according to the stored filling recipe for that product. Filled drums are then palletized and shrink-wrapped for shipping. The machine performs top fill and inside fill, or bottom filling of drums for foamy applications. Available options include custom in-feed and out-feed conveyance, fume hoods, labelers, sanitary design and explosion-proof packages, as well as a variety of drip cups and fume handling options. The system also features a large color touchscreen HMI for machine operation, recipe management and real-time monitoring of the filling process.

PASE Group
608-316-6324
www.pasegroup.com

BEST PRACTICES FOR EMPLOYEE HYGIENE

Meritech, Golden, Colo., showcased its hygiene programs designed to eliminate cross-contamination risk and ultimately prevent product recalls in facilities worldwide.

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Meritech manufactures CleanTech, what is said to be the world's only fully automated handwashing system. CleanTech performs a CDC standard hand wash in just 12 seconds, removes 99.9% of pathogens from hands while using 75% less water and creates 75% less waste than traditional manual handwashing methods.

Meritech
800-932-7707
www.meritech.com

AUGMENTED REALITY, REMOTE SUPPORT TECHNOLOGY FOR CONTAINER HANDLING SYSTEMS

Morrison Container Handling Solutions, Glenwood, Ill., demonstrated its innovative remote support technology.

The enhancement to the Support Built In doctrine consist of special glasses equipped with augmented reality (AR) technology that enables livestreaming of the customer’s facility, so Morrison can diagnose and guide in real-time for quick response to questions that may arise in the set-up, operation and maintenance of container handling systems. Additionally, the glasses provide PDF viewing, language translation, photo capture and sharing, video viewing, are safety rated and can even be programmed to guide changeover operations specific to the customer’s application.

This technology also uses Hololens AR, where the headset allows customers to physically interact with a virtual container handling solution, seeing it in life size or tabletop to truly picture how it will fit into an existing or new line.

The Smart Combiner and Divider System, for instance, is said to provide the most compact combiner and divider on the market. This custom drive assembly joins multiple lanes of product into one single flowing lane for easy changeover, little line space and the ability to mount to existing conveyors. The photoeyes sort based on color, understanding the direction each container must go in order to create the correct multi-pack and communicating that to the servo motor. The system can register up to three different containers, so users have a variety of options for multi-packs.

The Morrison Auto Adjust Rails come within 1mm of accuracy for individual bottles and 5mm of accuracy for case handling. Additionally, the hassle of supplying constant air pressure disappears because with this system, users only supply air pressure to create the needed positioning. The HMI will hold the set position; no need for operators to walk the line for repositioning. Morrison Auto Adjust Rails reduce downtime, so companies can increase line efficiency. With a few clicks of a button, operators can change over to a new product and maintain accuracy with positive control of products for up to 43 different SKUs.

The Model 60 Can Opener is an all-in-one can opening system that standardizes the canning procedure. Infeed timing screws allow manufacturers to process cans up to 60 cpm while reducing labor demands and creating positive control. The heavy-duty, stainless-steel systems are washdown friendly and provide complete processing functionality in a single station. Plus, the optional system can be built in to catch excess metal and crush cans for recycling, eliminating the need for additional labor and space.

Servo-controlled infeed allows intermittent feed of containers smoothly reestablishing prime up to 600 cpm. When backlog is low, the screw stops. Start at speeds up to 600 cpm can stop containers up to 2,000 cpm, reducing container damage while increasing production uptime, with no need to stop the machine to reestablish feed. Quick changeover designs are also available.

Morrison Container Handling Solutions
708-756-6660
https://morrison-chs.com

ADVANCED TRAY SEALING SOLUTIONS

Proseal, UK, showcased its advanced tray sealing solutions.

Models range from the semi-automatic Proseal GTR, ideal for smaller scale enterprises and new product development, to the high-speed, fully automatic Proseal GT6e with a maximum speed of 96 vacuum-gas packs per minute or 160 atmospheric seal packs per minute on an 8-impression tool.

The company’s entire range of tray sealing machines is readily equipped to help cold food and beverage manufacturers adopt new pack formats without additional investment.

Proseal also demonstrated the Halopack tray, what is said to be the first fully hermetic cardboard modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). Halopack trays are produced on the Proseal SKR machine, and the board base material is made from over 90% recycled cardboard. Halopack incorporates high barrier properties that maintain product quality, and with the right conditions, can extend shelf life.

Proseal also highlighted its ability to handle and seal extremely lightweight plastic trays, while reducing the amount of plastic by up to 42%.

In addition, the company demonstrated a variety of different pack sealing formats, including a new skin packaging technology called Skin², which increases cycle speeds over existing skin processes while reducing unit and equipment costs.

Proseal’s flexible ‘e’ range of tray sealing machines can handle every format of tray sealing, with the ability to introduce or remove these features at any time. This gives food producers the flexibility to easily switch between packaging formats during normal production.

The company’s Eseal technology is featured on all automatic tray sealers, helping customers meet the stringent quality requirements of the food retail sector while achieving a 92% reduction in energy usage.

Furthermore, Proseal exhibited its advanced OC Conveyor feeding a Proseal GT1e machine to illustrate the production efficiencies of an integrated conveyor and tray sealer solution.

And, the LC1 Lid-clipping machine is a fully automatic, in-line lid-placing, denesting and patent-pending tamping system that utilizes recyclable packaging. It can accept trays from any conveyors, such as clip lids onto film-sealed trays, and take trays directly from a filling conveyor when no film lid is required. Through the use of these features to avoid any loading errors, the LC1 system can be fully integrated with other in-line equipment, including upstream tray-sealing machines.

Proseal UK Ltd.
+44 (0) 1625 856600
www.proseal.com

MODULAR CONVEYOR STATION

Regal Beloit Corp., Beloit, Wis., showcased its MODSORT modular transfer and diverter station, which can accommodate a wide variety of products in any direction while eliminating the need for a lift or pneumatics while being integrated into new or existing material handling systems. The MODSORT conveyor station features the System Plast 2253RT roller top belt, which allows the conveyor station to uniquely transfer and divert packages based on the sphere’s vector speed and direction while also featuring a 1-inch, on-center sphere array for very small packages to be diverted. The matrix of freely rotating balls imbedded into a continuous flat belt allows the rolling top belt station to divert and transfer products of any kind by using precise, controlled and impact-free motion to divert and transfer products on motorized conveyor lines. The station can divert on the fly or stop and divert at a 90-degree angle, making it ideal for polybags and small packages. MODSORT conveyor stations can be placed end to end to create a medium-rate sorter or integrated with conveyors to create transfer stations within conveyor systems. Customization is possible for picking and packing stations within a modern distribution center. Additionally, retrofitting the station into existing conveyor systems is also possible. The MODSORT conveyor station also helps achieve energy savings between 50-60% compared to traditional conveyors when integrated with a motorized roller-based conveyor system due to its low weight and friction. The conveyor station features:

Motorized drive rollers (MDR) and controls that employ run-on-demand technology.
24-volt DC motor and controls that allow flexibility in wiring and control.
The ability to divert small packages and boxes.
No pneumatics, lifts or Z-direction position feedback devices are needed.
Safe, energy-efficient, quiet and low-maintenance operation.
Controls that allow stand-alone programming or can interface to a PLC via network.
No gaps or pinch points anywhere on the roller-free belt, i.e., workers have a much lower risk of injury.

Regal Beloit also showcased its Perceptive Technologies services, which include a complete offering of technical solutions to help companies be proactive — rather than reactive — when it comes to sustaining their maintenance processes. The Perceptive Technologies services include:

Transient torque monitoring for fatigue life prediction and efficiency.
Vibration monitoring and analysis.
Infrared thermography.
Ultrasonics.
Lubrication analysis.
Motor current signature analysis

Operators can use the online monitoring system via the app on a tablet, smartphone or computer to determine the existing state of a component and then measure effects of changes in products or processes. If the technology determines that a component may
soon malfunction, personnel can schedule maintenance or order and ship a new part before equipment failure occurs.

Regal Beloit Corp.
608-364-8800
www.regalbeloit.com

FILMS & NON-WOVENS FOR FLEXIBLE PACKAGING

RKW Group, Germany, displayed its wide range of special engineered films and non-wovens for a large variety of applications in the flexible packaging industry.

For example, the company’s sustainable line encompasses films that can be used to produce fully recyclable stand-up pouches, and contain various degrees of recycled post-consumer raw material (PCR). RKW is also investing in new technologies that enable the development of unique films that offer new opportunities in saving raw materials.

In addition, RKW presented the latest developments in its film portfolio, which includes mainly monolayer, multi-layer barrier films such as EVOH and/or nylon and easy-tear films.

The RKW portfolio also covers a wide range of films for packaging applications such as hybrid shrink-/stretchhoods and RKW ProVent bags for powdery goods.

Furthermore, the company is investing close to $19 million in its Franklin, Ky., production site to strengthen the company’s position in North America. The North American site expansion includes the construction of a new 30,000-square-foot manufacturing and warehouse facility and new, state-of-the-art equipment.

RKW Group
+49-(0)6233-8709-0
www.rkw-group.com

LABEL APPLICATOR FOR PRINT-AND-APPLY LABELING

ID Technology, a ProMach product brand, Fort Worth, Texas, introduced its CrossMerge label applicator module for print AND apply labeling. Ideal for high-volume secondary packaging lines, the patent-pending CrossMerge technology increases label output, simplifies mechanics and improves print quality and barcode readability. By rotating the print head, CrossMerge optimizes the conditions for both barcode printing and label application. To produce well-defined edges and ensure the best scores when verified, the bars of linear barcodes run parallel to the direction of feed (called picket fence printing), rather than perpendicular (called ladder printing). Unlike traditional print-and-apply labelers that must produce linear barcodes in the ladder direction to apply GS1-compliant labels in landscape orientation, CrossMerge prints barcodes in the picket fence direction and applies labels in landscape orientation. Rotating the print head also enables CrossMerge to increase output and decrease print speed to reduce print head wear and tear and further improve print quality. For example, CrossMerge customers can use 4x2 labels, and dispense labels at twice the rate or slow the print speed in half to improve print quality and double the life of the print head.

ID Technology also introduced the patent-pending TiltTouch, designed to apply one or two GS1-compliant barcode labels to shipping cases, trays and shrink-wrapped bundles at high output speeds. When using TiltTouch and two 4x2-inch labels, a total of only 4 inches of material needs to run through the printer, which helps to reduce print time and wear on the printer, as well as support printing barcodes in the preferred orientation. A further advantage of TiltTouch is that feeding the labels in this orientation greatly increases the number of labels on the roll, leading to improved efficiency with less downtime for label roll changes. The TiltTouch module is powered by a pair of precision pneumatic cylinders, one with a longer stroke than the other. The shorter cylinder moves the applicator to apply the label on the side of the item. For labeling the leading or trailing face of the package, the two cylinders work together to apply a label as quickly as possible. ID Technology’s refined applicator pad technology keeps the applicator from coming into contact with the product at any point of the operation, as the labels are gently controlled by a jet of air. The moving components of TiltTouch are designed to have minimal mass, allowing for smooth, fast motion and wear reduction.

ID Technology
888-438-3242
www.idtechnology.com

CHILD-RESISTANT ZIPPER CLOSURES

Zip-Pak, Manteno, Ill., debuted two new innovations, resulting from the in-depth research and ingenuity of the company’s Engineering and Innovation Center.

The Safety-Lok Child-Resistant Press-to-Close zipper keeps contents fresh, while protecting children from potentially dangerous products. Safety-Lok Child-Resistant Press-to-Close features a hermetic seal that maintains package integrity and extends product shelf life. The unique tabbed profile provides resistance for younger children, yet provides easy accessibility for older consumers challenged by child-resistant packaging. Plus, it’s compliant with CFR - Title 16 Part, 1700 standards.

The Safety-Lok Child-Resistant Slider features an intuitive 1-step opening from any position, and is compliant with CFR and ISO standards.

Also showcased was ValvPak, a revolutionary patented flexible valve technology that provides controlled dispensing and spill-proof containment of liquids in flexible packaging. A discrete flexible valve yields when pressure is applied to a pouch’s product compartment, thus enabling controlled dispensing. When squeeze-pressure is released, the valve reoccupies and closes the dispensing channel. Compared to a rigid bottle or a pouch with a plastic cap or closure, ValvPak is an e-commerce-ready solution that doesn’t require any overwraps or extra packaging.

Zip-Pak, a division of Illinois Tool Works
800-488-6973
www.zippak.com

AUTOMATED PACKAGING TECHNOLOGY

Coesia Group, Covington, Ky., showcased its best-of-breed automated packaging technology. The combined strength of VOLPAK, R.A JONES (formerly known Oystar North America, following the acquisition) and FLEXLINK offers pouching, cartoning, conveying and palletizing equipment to optimize consumer goods and other product packaging lines – all from a single global organization.

On display was Remote Assistance, the company’s technology-driven service solution that uses high-quality audio, live video, file-sharing, remote PLC interface and augmented reality for faster, more effective equipment diagnosis. Remote Assistance combines technology like smart glasses, tablets or smartphones with an IT platform to connect on-site personnel with Coesia experts. This enhanced collaboration allows packaging operations to resolve issues faster and maximize uptime.

VOLPAK SI series horizontal form-fill-seal pouching machine is packed with smart connectivity features and offers the versatility to handle new packaging designs and a variety of pouch materials.

R.A JONES Criterion CLI series cartoner offers a compact footprint and flexible packaging line layouts to fit in tight spaces, while handling the largest range of carton sizes.

FLEXLINK X70X stainless-steel conveyor offers a modular solution, designed with minimal dirt pockets and rounded surfaces for better drainage and cleanliness.

FLEXLINK RC10 palletizing system uses a collaborative robot to work alongside employees at the end of packaging lines, without the need of a cage of fence. This system can handle cartons weighing up to 16 pounds.

Coesia Group
859-341-0400
www.coesia.com

HYGIENIC INDUSTRIAL CONTROL HARDWARE

Rockwell Automation, Milwaukee, Wis., showcased how food manufacturers and packagers can better protect the integrity of their products using new hygienic industrial control hardware.

The new Allen-Bradley Kinetix VPH hygienic servo motors and a new stainless-steel version of the Allen-Bradley PanelView Plus 7 graphic terminal both help minimize contamination during production and ease compliance.

The stainless-steel PanelView terminal can be used on a machine in a “splash” or contaminant zone without the need to be covered or isolated. This helps protect product quality and simplifies the cleaning processes, while removing obstructions to the human machine interface, so operators can better monitor production. This product is said to be the industry’s first general-purpose HMI terminal certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF). It has an ingress-protection rating of IP69K to support high-pressure, high-temperature chemical washdowns. It also uses a food-grade silicone gasket with a distinct blue color to help production workers notice if it’s been damaged and needs to be replaced.

The new Kinetix VPH hygienic servo motors can improve machine reliability while enhancing consumer safety by meeting stringent hygienic standards. The hygienic design, including high-grade stainless-steel housing and a smooth surface, can withstand washdowns and reduce the risk of contamination. The servo motors are designed per the EHEDG and 3-A sanitary standards, and are IP69K rated and NSF certified. They seamlessly integrate with the Allen-Bradley Kinetix 5500 and 5700 servo-drive platform, using single-cable technology to help optimize a machine’s speed and accuracy.

Rockwell Automation
414-382-2000
www.rockwellautomation.com

SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING INITIATIVE

Sonoco, Hartsville, S.C., created the EnviroSense sustainable packaging initiative that includes a range of packaging materials, including cans made from 100% recycled paperboard, rigid plastic packaging containing post-consumer recycled content, mono-material flexible pouches that are recyclable and innovative packaging made from agricultural fibers.

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EnviroSense products are designed to incorporate a number of elements associated with more sustainable packaging such as reduced environmental impact, optimized package-to-product ratio and shipping optimization, increased use of recycled content, recyclability, fiber sourcing, compostability and the use of bio-based materials.

Sonoco Products Co.
843-383-7000
www.sonoco.com

CONVEYOR, SEALER, CASE FORMER, WORK CELL IN ONE

Wexxar Bel, Canada, debuted the new Flex E Pack system, a modular engineering solution that provides end users with the flexibility to integrate the right case former, product delivery conveyor, work cell and sealer that best meets their applications.

Meanwhile, the 2-person work cell best utilizes Pack Control to hand pack product into cases as efficiently as possible. With Pack Control, work cells can be individually activated, depending on the availability of operators. Pack Control provides each cell the ability to adjust their line with minimal impact to overall production rates.

The Flex E Pack system includes the Wexxar WF20 fully automatic case former/case erector, which produces up to 20 cases per minute and is available in tape or hot melt glue sealing. The Flex E Pack system can be paired with any Wexxar case former, depending on application needs.

Case sealing is handled by the BEL 252 Fully Automatic Top & Bottom Tape Case Sealer, and features the Uni-Drive System, which powers both side belts from a single motor, keeping them synchronized to provide a square seal even after prolonged use. Additionally, the line includes a PD50 bi-directional conveyor, which enables products to flow in opposite directions from the same conveyor platform.

The Flex E Pack is ideal for packaging lines with variable product flow and packing situations due to frequent case size changes, different case sizes and pack configurations, limited floor space, manual inspection of products, limited technical staff, high price of automated case packers and erectors and high SKU volume.

Features and benefits of the Flex E Pack system include:

All-in-one, integrated case forming, packing and sealing system.
Up to 20 cases per minute.
1- or 2-person packing station.
Ergonomic industrial foot switch.
Snap Folder safe flap folding technology.
User-friendly touchscreen controls.
Illustrated, color-coded adjustment instructions.

Wexxar Bel
888-565-3219
www.wexxar.com

INSPECTION, DETECTION, CHECKWEIGHING TECHNOLOGY

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Minneapolis, displayed a wide array of inspection, detection and checkweighing technology.

For starters, the Thermo Scientific Sentinel 3000 multiscan metal detector is the smallest model in the line of Sentinel metal detectors, and mounts on the frame of Thermo Scientific VersaWeigh and Versa GP checkweighers. The Sentinel 3000 detector is said to be the first multi-frequency metal detector specifically designed for metal detection-checkweighing combination systems in food production. Integrating the detector onto the checkweigher frame eliminates the need for an external metal detector conveyor. New harmonized Versa checkweigher software incorporates capability to operate the checkweigher and metal detector from one screen, and is designed to improve usability and reduce training time. The Sentinel 3000 metal detector features multiscan technology, which allows users to select up to five frequencies from 50-1,000 kHz and scan through each frequency at a rapid rate. It effectively acts like five metal detectors in one. The technology also is devised to increase the probability that all random sizes, shapes and types of metal foreign objects are found before food products reach consumers. The Sentinel 3000 metal detector is designed for a wide range of food applications, including dairy, meat, poultry, fruit, vegetables and bread.

For more information on the Thermo Scientific Sentinel 3000 multiscan

The NextGuard X-ray Detection System is an easy-to-use, entry-level x-ray inspection system that offers advanced capabilities for finding metallic and non-metallic foreign objects. It uses a non-linear detector designed to improve detection of dense objects.

The Versa Flex Checkweigher with APEX 300 Metal Detector provides accurate weight control for dry applications, and helps assure that product is free of metal contaminants.

The Xpert B600 X-ray Inspection System is designed specifically for x-ray inspection of high-value bulk food products, such as seeds, nuts, fruits and vegetables, prior to further processing.

The Versa 8120 chain checkweigher provides high-speed weighing, control and reject functions for cartons, cans, bottles and rigid packages, and features a rugged chain design for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Product Inspection
763-783-2500
www.thermoscientific.com/productinspection

SINGLE-SOURCE SOLUTIONS CAPABILITIES

tna, Dallas, Texas, demonstrated its capabilities to deliver single-source solutions and boost throughput capacity and speed at scale without increasing waste or compromising on quality and accuracy.

This immersive, interactive experience in a multi-sensory environment enabled visitors to explore tna’s comprehensive capabilities as a single-source solutions provider.

tna leveraged augmented reality technologies on everything from high-performance batch fryers to distribution and packaging lines.

tna
972-462-6500
www.tnasolutions.com

SOLUTIONS FOR ERROR-PROOF PACKAGING & IMPLEMENTING INDUSTRY 4.0

SICK, Inc., Minneapolis, partnered with AutoCoding Systems, Inc., London, to develop complete sensor and software solutions for error-proof packaging. This full coding management and packaging verification solution provides insurance against any potential coding and packaging errors.

Benefits include:

Controlled deployment and set-up of date coding equipment.
Central configuration matches product specifications with device profiles.
In-line barcode scanning of 1D and/or 2D barcodes with Lector image-based code readers.
Validation of all packaging-related attributes like barcode verification and placement.
Achieve end-to-end control of the packaging process, even with existing equipment.
Costs based on a simple licensing model according to the number of devices on the line.
Remote access to all lines via PC, industrial HMI, tablet or smartphone.
Multiple devices across many lines can be controlled from one central point.

Starting with device management, including set-up and control of the equipment, SICK helps to implement this solution on packaging lines to provide effective coding management and verification. This includes paperless quality and vision inspection. Once installed, the machine provides packaging and label verification. Full audit records are also available for traceability purposes. AutoCoding’s software effectively manages the deployment of coding data and the checking of packaging before products leave the factory. SICK sensors verify the correct code was used and printed, helping to validate codes and prevent recalls. SICK products and AutoCoding’s coding and packaging verification solutions can be used in a range of applications. SICK’s Lector image-based code readers are used for 1D and 2D barcode scanning to check retail barcodes, backweb label barcodes and packaging artwork barcodes. AutoCoding also has a number of vision installations that incorporate SICK’s ICR image-based code readers, IVC-3D cameras and the InspectorP series of cameras. In addition, AutoCoding’s advanced coding management software is designed to control and manage a wide range of different packaging line devices. The full solution provides dynamic control of the packaging line, ensuring that it stops in the event of too many misreads or no-reads detected from the SICK sensor or if a device malfunction is detected. SICK’s solution also enables manufacturers to use a single system to control multiple devices from different vendors. The devices may perform different functions, such as coding, inspection, labeling and verification, but all exist on the same line. This complete solution provides the consumer goods industry a method to greatly reduce date-coding errors and downtime related to product changeovers.

SICK also demonstrated its 4.0 NOW Factory sensor technology and dashboard, which makes it easier to implement improvements and new innovations. Sensor intelligence entails programmable and self-learning cameras, reliable safety sensors for human-robot collaboration and complete solutions for navigating autonomous guided vehicles. All of these devices connect with one another via the cloud, implementing Industry 4.0 along the entire value-creation process. Sensors and other technology can then be accessed via the 4.0 NOW Cockpit, a dashboard that simulates sensors and provides a live view of the sensors at work. Decentralized intelligence in the sensors (edge computing) forms the basis for flexible control of production processes in the smart factory. Additional cloud intelligence in the form of data analyses and applications allow the use of self-learning mechanisms in the sensors, increasing their adaptability to production-related changes. Some sensors transmit data directly to a level where information is needed. And, for more complex scenarios, data collection devices can harvest data from multiple sensors. The data is then aggregated, filtered and prepared to be transmitted to the level where information can be visualized. This data includes product-related information (status of a batch process or count of product) or vision inspection information that provides quality-related data. 4.0 NOW Factory is applicable for production logistics, flexible production, track-and-trace technology, safety and quality control.

SICK opened a 4.0 NOW factory in Freiburg, Germany, in February. It consists of 12 independent technology modules designed to efficiently produce seven SICK product families with over 600,000 variants. With the 4.0 NOW Cockpit, manufacturers gain connectivity to sensors via the TDC-E Gateway that then enables them to interact with the installed applications and transfer data to the dashboard. The supply chain is taken over by driverless transport systems together with collision prevention solutions. The data from all the sensors in the smart factory are evaluated on a large display, giving visitors a constant overview of logistical and production processes as well as key performance indicators.

SICK is also said to be the first manufacturer to offer a comprehensive range of solutions along the entire value creation change from a single source. Indoor localization makes it possible to manage complex networks, create transparency and ensure speedy production. Assets in a factory are tracked continuously using localization solutions—known as indoor GPS—and their space-time coordinates can be continuously recorded and stored. Having this data means complete transparency about all the important movements on the shop floor. All the established technologies—ultra wide-band tags, LiDAR Contour Mapping, line guidance sensors and infrastructure sensors—record either their own position or the position of the desired objects. Depending on the application as well as the positioning accuracy and update rate required, the right technology is selected or various technologies are combined with each other. Localization technology is one of the key factors in achieving Industry 4.0, as it can be used to boost optimization potential in several areas by allowing for agile planning of production and logistics processes. Localization data gives companies a high level of transparency and understanding of all production-related assets, load carriers and loading equipment. As a result, travel paths are optimized and adapted dynamically. Set-up times can be prepared or scheduled flexibly. The material flow can be planned and controlled based on consumption.

Meanwhile, the TriSpector1000 is a vision sensor that provides 3D inspection for flexible automation. The TriSpector1000 is a stand-alone, configurable 3D vision sensor that inspects objects regardless of variations in object color, height, shape or position. In addition, intensity data enhances 3D navigation and allows the sensor to check for object rotation or the presence of a label or printed pattern. Useful in 3D robot guidance, profile monitoring, assembly checks and quality inspections, the TriSpector1000 can be tailor-made to fit any application thanks to SICK’s AppSpace development framework. The TriSpector1000 is especially suited for solving quality control applications in the consumer goods and packaging industry, and can be used for volume and thickness measurement and inspection of box integrity, including content verification, completeness and emptiness checks. Within these industries, common quality issues can be easily resolved with automated quality checks using vision-sensor technology, including missing caps, lids or open containers; misapplied labels; and incorrect labels. The TriSpector1000 also boasts easy configuration, commissioning and operation thanks to an intuitive user interface and embedded image analysis. Factory calibrated data also simplifies setup and reduces time and effort.

SICK Inc.
952-941-6780
www.sickusa.com

RETAIL SUPPLY CHAIN SOLUTIONS

ORBIS Corp., Oconomowoc, Wis., highlighted several of its retail supply chain solutions.

For example, MultiTank for bulk handling,

Efficient alternative to 55-gallon drums, intermediate bulk container tanks for wet and dry ingredients.
Offers 6:1 return ratio and saves up to 75% in storage space.
Innovative airtight and watertight lid design.

XpressBulk milk delivery system

Fully reusable, retail-ready, 1-touch merchandising system designed for retail deliveries.
Allows for easy transport off the truck and right into the retail environment for quicker unload.
No unpacking or additional touches needed, as consumers shop directly from XpressBulk.

HDMX4048-46 MaxCube series,

Collapsible straight-wall container, offered in the industry standard 40x48-inch footprint, and holds up to 1,200 pounds and more than 40 cubic feet of product.
Improved sidewall performance for a long service life.
Foot cap wear plates for long performance in rugged environments.

Intelligent packaging (enabling tracking and management of reusable assets),

Improves visibility throughout the supply chain.
Reduces theft, breakage and loss.
Reduces dwell time.

40-by-48-inch pallets with Proliant,

Fire-retardant plastic material for use in select plastic pallets, including rackable and stackable styles, in footprints from 36x40 inches to 48x48 inches.
Halogen- and bromine-free material that is fully recyclable.
FM approvals-certified and FDA-compliant.

E-commerce totes,

Family of all-plastic totes designed to work in many picking environments — manual and highly automated.
Dimensionally consistent for seamless integration with today’s high-speed systems.
Made in a variety of footprints and often customized to meet system requirements.

ORBIS also launched several items for the industrial setting, including its BulkPak HDMP 4845 series, thermoformed dunnage and AdjustaPak, an adjustable sliding dunnage system.

ORBIS Corp.
800-890-7292
www.orbiscorporation.com

HIGH-CLARITY PRINT FILM

Charter NEX, Milton, Wis., introduced new GreenArrow High Clarity PE Print Film solution.

This film was designed to mimic the properties of PET or OPP, but in an all-polyethylene format to produce store drop-off recyclable packaging for the How2Recycle program.

Also new is Charter NEX’s new high-barrier, metallized PE sealant film designed and developed in conjunction with Celplast Metallized Products, Canada. This new fully developed all-PE recyclable pet food package uses high contents of post-consumer recycled resin.'

And, earlier this year, Charter NEX joined forces with Next Generation Films, Lexington, Ohio, to create a new platform focused on new specialty films products.

Charter NEX
877-411-3456
http://charternex.com

PACKAGING EQUIPMENT FOR ENTIRE LINE

BW Packaging Systems, Romeoville, Ill., exhibited a variety of equipment and technologies to showcase its ability to address requirements across the entire packaging line.

For instance, the Pneumatic Scale Angelus is a filler/seamer combination that leverages the strengths of the company’s flagship Hema and Angelus brands to include robust construction, hygienic design and production flexibility. This particular machine configuration includes electronic synchronization between the servo drives on the Hema filler and the Angelus seamer.

Accraply, Minneapolis, exhibited the Accraply 100 pressure-sensitive labeler along with a Graham and Sleevit DF60 tamper-evident shrink sleeve applicator. This configuration accurately labels even the most difficult applications. Toolless changeovers make these machines quick to configure—ideal to meet the demands of fast-moving production lines.

BW Packaging Systems
800-527-0494
www.bwintegratedsystems.com

ROBOTIC PICK-AND-LACE CELL, PALLETIZER

Quest Industrial, Monroe, Wis., highlighted its Quik Pick & Pack robotic pick-and-place cell and its Boxed-Bot robotic palletizer.

The Quest Quik Pick & Pack is a high-speed robotic case packer that’s quick, accurate and compact. Loaded with the QPack custom case packing software, the Quik Pick & Pack can be configured to pick up as many as 1,000 pieces per minute. The Quik Pick & Pack also works well with flexible film packaging, thanks to its vision system and optional 3D scanning that detects the pouches’ topography and center of gravity to identify the proper high point for picking. The Quik Pick & Pack also performs well with any packaging type that comes from a vertical form-fill-seal or horizontal flow wrapper machine. The Quik Pick & Pack handles a variety of product shapes, weights and sizes. The machine can pick and place bags weighing only 1 ounce and reach all the way up to 20 pounds. Additionally, end users can create their own pack patterns to accommodate customers’ different packaging requirements. Additional features include:

Accepts a wide range of boxes or cases with continuous changeover from size to size.
Accepts a wide range of product types, sizes and textures.
Custom orientation of product, including pile stacks, base stacks, random cuts, shingle stack and 2-3 stack.

The Quest Boxed-Box skid-based robotic palletizer features a footprint starting at just 8x10 inches. The Boxed-Bot allows operators to design and produce exact pallet patterns quickly and easily from bags to boxes and other product types. Creating patterns is accomplished though the QBox custom pallet building software, what is said to be the most technologically-intuitive operator interface available on the market. The Boxed-Bot features a long-reach Fanuc M-710IC Series robot that provides higher stack patterns, which better maximizes tractor-trailer loading for more efficient shipping.

Furthermore, in April, ProMach, Cincinnati, acquired Quest Industrial to strengthen its robotics integration capabilities.

Quest Industrial
608-325-5850
https://questindustrial.com

TRAY PACKAGING & STRETCH WRAPPING MACHINES

Ossid, Battleboro, N.C., showcased its lineup of tray packaging and stretch wrapping machines.

For instance, Ossid’s 500Si High-Speed Stretch Wrapper produces tightly wrapped, PVC case-ready packaging at speeds of up to 120 trays per minute for the poultry, meat and produce industries. The 500Si also uses less film and requires no air or water utilities during operation. Features include:

Product changeover in less than two minutes.
Runs tray sizes #2 to 8x15-inch standard.
PVC stretch film capable.
Stainless-steel construction.
Gripper-chain system stretches shrink films to produce tightly wrapped packages.
Servo-driven technology and microprocessors reduce downtime and maintenance.

The ReeTray 30 Semi-Automatic Tray Sealer can do three types of sealing—ambient tray sealing; modified atmosphere packaging (MAP); and vacuum skin packaging (VSP).

The ReeTray 30 Semi-Automatic Tray Sealer features a 2-chamber system for packaging products in standard #3 trays. The easy-to-use interface allows operators to select the type of sealing. Features include:

Automatic film advance produces up to 24 packs per minute (depending on the size of the trays and number of trays per cycle).
Rugged stainless-steel construction.
Manual or semi-automatic drawer feed and interchangeable tooling for fast changeovers between tray sizes.

The ReeForm E40 Thermoformer features an all stainless-steel design for easy sanitation in washdown environments. The ReeForm E40 comes with a user-friendly control panel touch screen for easy setting and recording of different programs, and a control box for fast, efficient positioning and adjusting of bottom film. The ReeForm E40 also offers consistent pack quality at a higher level of speed to process flexible and rigid film with thickness up to 600 microns and film width up to 420 mm. It provides a maximum forming depth of up to 120 mm and a maximum cut-off length of up to 300 mm.

Ossid
800-334-8369
www.ossid.com

HIGH-SPEED WRAPPING EQUIPMENT

Lantech, Louisville, Ky., showcased the following packaging equipment:

The RLA is said to be the highest-speed stretch wrapper with auto roll change on the market, producing up to 180 loads per hour. It boasts Metered Film Delivery System, two times the wrap force per revolution of film and no film breaks or load twisting or crushing.

The QL400 features the latest advancement in safe-to-ship wrapping technology, with automatic film cut-off and 250% pre-stretch, achieving 5,000-pound capacity.

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Lantech’s case erectors are designed to erect square cases without jamming. Other features include an easy-to-load magazine, precise case forming, sequential flap folding, auto adjustment for case variations and more.

Lantech
502-815-9109
www.lantech.com

GEAR UNITS, DRIVE SYSTEMS

NORD Gear Corp., Waunakee, Wis., showcased a variety of gear units and drive systems.

NORDBLOC.1 gearboxes come in three single-stage gear units—SK 871.1, SK 971.1 and SK 1071.1—providing what is said to be industry-leading thrust load capacity per case size. The new products have a power range of 1.5-60 HP, a torque range of 3,540-8,850 pounds per inch and a ratio range of 1.41-8.09:1. With durable UNICASE cast iron housings and optimized bearings, these gear units handle large axial and radial forces.

LOGIDRIVE a modular 2-stage helical bevel gear unit, IE4 motor and a decentralized variable frequency drive designed for vertical, horizontal and inclined conveyors. These drive units integrate all common field bus and industrial Ethernet interfaces. Efficient operation at partial load and low speeds make this the ideal solution for high-volume manufacturing, warehousing and packaging systems.

NORD CON app and NORDAC ACCESS Bluetooth stick enable convenient dashboard-based visualization to aid in the diagnosis, parameterization and monitoring of all NORD drive systems right from a mobile device. The Bluetooth stick can be used directly with the frequency inverter, and allows users to transfer parameters from one frequency inverter to another.

The SK 02040.1 helical worm features a die-cast aluminum housing, with a power range of 0.16-1.5 HP and an output torque of up to 885 pounds per inch. The wide range of speed ratios (from 5.37:1 up to 330:1) enables optimum adaptation to the customer's requirements. The motor can be mounted directly without a coupling or via an adapter (IEC or NEMA).

NORD Gear Corp.
888-314-6673
www.nord.com

SIDELOAD BUNDLER

Texwrap, Washington, Mo., introduced its next generation Tekkra 200-series sideload bundler, which offers dairy processors, co-packers and more to customize their machine for maximum productivity based on the layout of their plant.

The new Tekkra 200-series bundler is rated at 15-20 multi-packs per minute of either supported or unsupported products. Featuring toolless changeover, a recipe-driven HMI and a servo-driven main ram, the Tekkra 200 enables fast changeover for maximum flexibility in bundling a range of SKUs. Tekkra 200’s servo-driven seal assembly ensures fast and repeatable seals.

Texwrap also offers a choice of infeed conveyor widths, right or left side infeed orientation, discharge options of straight, right or left, and a selection of tunnel lengths.

Texwrap Packaging Systems
800-886-7421
www.texwrap.com

DATA CAPTURE, ROBOTIC INSPECTION SYSTEMS

Datalogic, Eugene, Ore., displayed an array of solutions, including data capture, safety and sensors, laser marking, robotic inspection, vision systems and imaging technology.

Barcode reading, which includes the Matrix devices for high-speed data capture, compact form factor or Digimarc Barcodes reading.

Laser marking. The combination of the AREX 400 laser maker with the intuitive MARVIS software.

Advanced OCR. These new OCR tools provide precision detection and interpretation on high-speed lines, reflective surfaces, and poorly printed surfaces.

Pattern sortation. Now manufacturers can automate processes and inspection that relied on human vision. This vision solution interprets icons and symbols on packaging at high speed, even if they are poorly printed and partially covered.

Bottling conveyor. Detection, inspection and data collection integrate vision systems, safety sensor, smart cameras and industrial scanners in action.

PowerScan. These industrial handheld scanners include DMP compatibility, wireless communications, integrated keyboards and more.

Mobility. These handheld and vehicle mount computers feature Android and Windows operating systems that deliver computing power to applications across the enterprise.

Safety laser sentinels. This solution monitors safety at multiple distances in workstations, robots, lift trucks and more.

Photoelectric sensors and IO-link. This family of sensors is complete with optical functions, optics direction, cabling, output signals and more, all communicating with the IO-Link standard.

Datalogic ADC, Inc.
541-683-5700
www.datalogic.com

BOTTLE- & CUP-FILLING TECHNOLOGY

Synerlink, a Paris-based Barry-Wehmiller Packaging Systems company, displayed a wide range of bottle- and cup-filling technologies for medium- and high-production rates.

Last year, the company announced plans to expand its presence in the Middle East and Persian Gulf region.

Synerlink
www.synerlink.com

CONVERTED PLASTIC SOLUTIONS

Eleven Brazilian manufacturers featured high-quality, diversity and sustainability in packaging through its Think Plastic Brazil showcase, an export promotion project sponsored by INP (National Plastic Institute) and Apex-Brasil (Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency).

Participating companies included Lord Brasil; Packing Group; Plaszom; Polo Films; Splack; Vitopel do Brasil Ltda, and Zaraplast.

Think Plastic Brazil’s sponsor, Braskem, presented its line of Green Plastic and Green Eva products, which are resins produced from sugar cane. The green polyethylene I’m green differential reduces greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere, since it captures carbon dioxide during the production process. It also presents the same characteristics as those of the traditional polyethylene, that is, it doesn’t require machinery adaptation and is recyclable.

The Packing Group boasts nanolayer technology to provide a differentiated technical support with a specialized after-sales area to ensure greater performance and efficiency in consumption. It also provides the uniqueness of the High Light machine, an equipment to make advanced quality testing, as well as drawing, drilling, charge retention, impact and tear, which enables to develop films for each specific application.

Polo Films specialized in BOPP films production featuring benefits for protection and barrier, optimization and efficiency and sustainability and environment. Polo Films also offers a wide range of high-quality flexible packaging, optical, mechanical and barrier properties, overwrapping, scotch tapes and decorative packaging, among others.

Vitopel also showcased its portfolio of BOPP films.

Zaraplast specializes in flexible packaging solutions for food, beverage, agribusiness, animal nutrition and more.

ON-DEMAND LABEL PRINTERS

Epson America, Long Beach, Calif., announced four new additions to its ColorWorks on-demand color label printer lineup – the ColorWorks C6000A, C6000P, C6500A, and C6500P.

This lineup is said to be first printers specifically designed as a color upgrade to black-only thermal transfer printers. The new ColorWorks models deliver on-demand, 4- or 8-inch color labels at up to 5-inches per second.

Featuring up to 1200 dpi resolution, the new models produce crisp images comparable to pre-printed labels, are compatible with ZPL II, SAP and more and built to accommodate remote printer management.

Additional features include:

Remote printer management for managing large fleets over the network.
Peel and present. The C6000P and C6500P offer fast, on-demand print-and-apply applications.
Auto cutter. C6000A and C6500A come standard with auto cutter, ideal for fast, on-demand applications.
Applicator I/O control port for automated workflow. Supports I/O commands, and can be integrated into nearly any workflow.

Epson America
800‑463‑7766
https://epson.com

ULTRA-HD PRINTING, PAPER-BASED FORMABLE FOOD PACKAGING

Mondi, Jackson, Mo., highlighted several product innovations, including ultra-high-definition (HD) flexographic printing, the PerFORMing natural-look food packaging material and the SPLASHBAG water-repellent industrial paper sack.

Ultra-HD printing. Mondi can print vibrant images and marketing messages, including high-quality images and text typically associated with rotogravure printing.

PerFORMing. PerFORMing is a thermoformable multilayer packaging material with a brown color that suits current consumer demand for a more natural look and feel in packaged goods. This paper-based solution, which is naturally brown without the use of dyes, is ideal for packaging meats and cheeses on food trays as well as for portion packs and other applications. PerFORMing provides high barrier properties while reducing plastic use by up to 80% compared with traditional shallow trays.

SPLASHBAG. SPLASHBAG is a water-repellent industrial paper valve bag for dry, powdery materials that can resist direct rain for up to 6 hours and moisture ingress for up to 5 days. Available in 55- and 77-pound sizes, the SPLASHBAG can be filled and de-aerated just as quickly as standard industrial sacks. For extra moisture protection, the bags can be manufactured with an optional inner plastic film, which can be easily removed from the paper after use for recycling purposes.

Mondi North America
573-335-4900
https://northamerica.mondigroup.com

THERMAL BARCODE PRINTERS, AUTOMATED SHIPPING SYSTEM

Toshiba America Business Solutions, Lake Forest, Calif., showcasing new thermal barcode printers and an automated shipping system, a product collaboration with Panther Industries, Highlands Ranch, Colo., and StreamTech Engineering, St. Louis, Mo.

The new BA400 thermal barcode printer combines the latest in connectivity – USB, Bluetooth, Ethernet and Near-Field Communication – with the necessary throughput (up to 8 inches per second) to fulfill virtually any manufacturing, distribution and retail labeling requirements. Featuring a sturdy, compact design with top-loading for fast media and ribbon swaps, the BA400 integrates easily within most office and warehouse settings.

Toshiba’s newly-minted B-EX4T3HS thermal barcode printer creates clear, acutely scannable, high-resolution labels – up to 600 dots per inch – with precision accuracy. The B-X4T3HS handles the complexity of printing smaller labels – width and height as small as 0.51 and 0.12 inches respectively – with speed (up to 6 inches per second) and extreme precision. The printer’s center alignment eliminates media shifts to ensure the consistently accurate placement of barcode data on labels.

Toshiba America Business Solutions, Inc.
949-462-6000
http://business.toshiba.com

SANITARY LOBE PUMPS

Unibloc-Pump, Marietta, Ga., showcased a number of sanitary premium lobe pumps, including Mini Pumps for low flow (3/8-, half- and 0.750-inch TC ports), gear pumps, Models PD300, PD450, PD501, PD550, PD677, Compac series and Quick Strip series.

This line of sanitary pumps is suitable for meat, poultry, dairy, bakery and confectionary processing. They’re engineered from all stainless steel, with what is said to be the cleanest pump head in the industry. VSM technology allows the pump head to fit any seal type.

These pumps also feature patented rotor designs for optimal efficiency and low product shear, and are available in a variety of industry-specific materials and designs.

The pumps have oversized shafts to reduce deflection at high pressures, and Unibloc’s gearbox boasts a fully machined exterior featuring a non-stick surface.

Unibloc-Pump, Inc.
770-218-8900
https://uniblocpump.com

DISPENSING SOLUTIONS

Silgan Dispensing, Richmond, Va., showcased its latest solutions and innovations in dispensing solutions.

Sustainability with PCR Products uses post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic in its packaging and dispensing solutions, enabling the brand to meet its sustainability goals. Silgan Dispensing’s PCR portfolio includes pumps and sprayers, including the SD200 dispensing pump, TS800 trigger sprayer and select dispensing closures such as SD 20c and Mark VII Max products.

Silgan Dispensing Systems
816-986-6000
www.silgandispensing.com

DUAL PROFILING INSPECTION SYSTEM

Silgan Equipment, Waukegan, Ill., debuted the new 2D-X2 Dual Profiling Inspection

System, which employs dual lasers to scan the surface of the cap on a packaged beverage or food product to determine proper cap sealing. The side-by-side laser beams scan the top surface of each cap to immediately detect cap tilt and overall cap height. When the lasers detect an uneven cap height, the cap is cocked; when they detect a non-standard package height, the cap is either low (not present) or high (not completely seated). These results indicate a package that is not securely sealed.

The 2D-X2 system installs over an existing conveyor line, are mounted in a protective housing rated NEMA 4X and are resistant to washdowns.

The sensor height is adjusted by a handwheel, and the beam-spread adjustment by a rotary knob, allowing for fast and accurate placement. As filled and capped containers pass, the lasers scan the surface of each cap to identify rejects for removal downstream.

Operators access the 2D-X2 system controls through a full-color touchscreen HMI located next to the line. The PackML-compliant system software stores and recalls job files for quick changeover, displays inspection results and generates production statistics. Operators set up an inspection by stepping through the HMI-directed set-up procedure, using samples of good and bad cap placement on containers to adjust the inspection parameters. When the inspection is configured and runs well in production, it’s saved as a job file for instant recall when that same container and cap combination runs in the future. During a changeover to a new container and cap, the line operator selects the previously stored job file on the HMI screen and sets the height and beam spread of the laser unit. Running a few test containers ensures that the system is properly adjusted. The 2D-X2 can inspect container caps at a rate of up to 800 per minute, and the system software records production statistics, including number of rejects, for use in continuous Improvement efforts. This data can be immediately recalled in the event of an FDA inspection visit.

The 2D-X2 system inspects plastic, metal and composite caps ranging from 30-110 mm in size, on containers ranging from 1¼ to 14 inches in height.

Silgan Equipment
847-336-0552
www.silgancls.com

VIBRATORY FEEDERS

The 76 Series Vibratory Feeder from Eriez, Erie, Pa., supports trays up to approximately 200 pounds. Large bucket elevators require high-capacity feeders with long tray overhangs to reach the in-feed section of the elevators. With its ability to handle larger trays with multiple features such as screens, covers, inlet spouts and downspouts with a single compact drive unit required by bulk bag dischargers, the 76 is also well suited for bulk bag unloading.

Eriez ProGrade tubes, grates and liquid line traps are now available with the new and improved Xtreme RE7 Rare Earth Tube Circuit, which is said to be 13-40% stronger than other magnets in head-to-head pull tests. Eriez ProGrade Xtreme Rare Earth magnetic separators remove weakly magnetic fine ferrous contamination to ensure ultimate product purity and equipment protection.

For the most difficult food and sanitary industry applications requiring the highest level of protection against metal contamination, the Eriez Rare Earth magnetic separator powered by Xtreme RE7 alongside an Xtreme Metal Detector Enhanced Platform (EP) is said to be 13-40% stronger than other magnets in head-to-head pull tests.

Eriez
888-300-3743
www.eriez.com

FUTURE-READY FORM-FILL-SEAL MACHINE

The “future-ready” FBM 22H from PPi Technologies Group, Sarasota, Fla., is a revolutionary form-fill-seal machine that uses less components than older machines and operates more efficiently thanks to an open hygienic design architecture.

The machine, built in partnership with SN Machinery GmbH, Germany, features a continuous-motion zipper seal and continuous-motion stand-up pouch system, and can run new eco-friendly monolayer materials.

The camera-based eye mark control module moves the sealing station according to the registration mark, thus expediting the changeover process.

The machine also boasts a fully automatic adjustment of the sealing frames, using patented continuous-motion ﬁlm feed through the plow. And, the film roll unwind is controlled by direct a servo-drive system to reduce material waste.

FBM 22H complies with hygienic standards, and offers easy cleanability and reduction of corners and ridges with smooth surfaces to avoid accumulation of dirt.

Additional features include continuous-motion second web feed, horizontal zipper sealing, gusset punch camera-based block adjustment of the seal station, an automatic format change of the seal frames and pouch grippers, and semi-automated HMI. Plus, it’s prepared for recyclable film structures.

PPi Technologies Group
866-768-2477
www.ppitechnologies.com