New Machinery/Equipment

Ken Pierce

Versatile candy packaging line handles gummy items as easily as free-flowing treats

Speed: 120 products per minute This new versatile candy packaging line--which handles gummy items as easily as free-flowing treats--consists of customized versions of this manufacturer's Selectacom in-line computer combination scale and Advantage zipper bag machine, which can also produce standard styles. The Selectacom scale features three tiers of cascading vibratory feeders and clump-breaking counter rotating gripper fingers to ensure even distribution to the weighers. Multiple capacity sensors provide accurate flow readings for instant adjustment of feeder action. Product flow areas are steeply angled and special surface treatments, including textured metal, are also used to accelerate flow. The Advantage bagger incorporates a transverse zipper applicator, but can be quickly converted to non-zipper styles. The machine handles web widths up to 31.5 inches and runs all machinable films in three zipper styles.

Triangle Package Machinery Co., (800) 621-4170, ext. 211

Item # 371

Checkweigher/metal detector delivers critical accuracy and a statistical package

Speed: 300 packages per minute The new 301 belt checkweigher is ideal for applications where accuracy is critical and a statistical package is required. The compact 301 Checkweigher/Metweigh permits metal detection capability where floor space is at a premium. The powered weigh table, belt-style system is capable of +/-0.1 grams accuracy at rates up to 300 ppm, depending on weight, speed, size and stability of the product. It is sealed to a NEMA 12 (IP54) standard and programmable for up to 40 products. The 301 features auto zero function, average weight display and dynamic compensation and handles product weights up to 44 pounds (20 kilograms).

Lock Inspection Systems, (800) 227-5539

Item # 372

New pick-and-place packer erects auto-bottom containers automatically without blank design modifications

Speed: 160 cycles per minute (on continuous-motion machinery) This new carton or case erection and set-up system can run auto-bottom or "crash lock" style containers automatically without modifications to the blank design. The display CSU (container set-up) features high-speed rotary cam motion that picks and erects the container, then inspects and places it into the flight chains of a display car-toner or case packer. Its low-level (43 roches off the floor) powered magazine--which allows easy loading--extends 6 feet and holds more than 400 blanks. The display CSU can be integrated into the back side of the cartoner or case packer (instead of extending outside of the machine) to conserve floor space. The size range for this system is from 4 to 14 inches long, 2 to 10 inches high and 3 to 20 inches deep, permitting multi-lane display containers to be run that had previously been done manually. Speed capability is up to 40 cpm using intermittent operation and 160 cpm or more on continuous-motion machinery.

Key Automation, (612) 686-5254

Item # 373

Heavy-duty rotary heat sealer delivers fast production speeds at an affordable price

Speed: 60 packages per minute (two up) The rugged durability, quality and simplicity of the Model RHS-6 rotary heat sealer makes it ideal for ready meal packaging applications. This cost-effective packaging system seals both lidding film or paperboard lids to crystallized polyethylene terephthalate (CPET) and PET-coated paperboard trays at fast production speeds. RHS-6 withstands sealing forces up to 10,000 pounds to minimize dwell time. Features include a PLC-controlled servo drive system to provide adjustable table speeds, digital temperature controller and cartridge heaters to allow accurate sealing platen temperature control.

Gralex Inc., (614) 436-6634

Item # 374

New air-cooled induction cap sealer mounts over the conveyor for ease of installation

Super Seal [TM] 50 air-cooled induction cap sealer operates without water cooling, providing the reliability and ease of maintenance inherent in state-of-the-art electronics for sealing the foil inner seal. For use on filling/packaging lines in the pharmaceutical, nutritional supplement and health and beauty aids industries, the complete Super Seal 50 system mounts over the conveyor for ease of installation. The latest in advanced safety, self-protection and operator convenience features are built into the unit.

Enercon Industries Corp., (414) 255-6070

Item # 375

Label print engines are available in right- and left-hand configuration to best match the conveyor's direction

For use in automatic print-and-apply systems, the M-8490S and M-8460S original equipment manufactured (OEM) print engines are available in opposite-hand configuration for flexibility in placement along the packaging line. The standard print engine dispenses the label from the right hand side, while the opposite-hand model dispenses from the unit's left hand side, making it easier to match the conveyor's direction. Model M-8460S features a 6-inch print width and the high-resolution M-8490S offers 305 dots per inch printing. Units are available with label widths ranging from 1 to 6.5 inches and resolutions from 203 dpi. Both printers incorporate a 32-bit RISC processor for high throughputs, 12 human readable fonts and 16 built-in bar code symbologies, including the popular 2D codes such as PDF417, Maxicode and Data Matrix.

SATO America Inc., (408) 745-1300

Item # 376

Infeed turning system for palletizers stacks products with "labels out"

The Turnado, a new patented infeed turning system for palletizing equipment, increases the speed of package turning with greater reliability. The system provides labels-out stacking and generates continuous product flow to work well with highspeed production lines. Its new technology uses fewer moving parts for easier and less costly maintenance.

Columbia Machine, (360) 694-1501, ext. 331

Item # 377

New programmable limit switch offers low cost and flexible limit control on the fly

Cost: $625

The AstroPLS programmable limit switch with dual axis provides quick, easy-to-set multiple programmable limit outputs/inputs. AstroPLS accepts inputs from one or two transducers, providing independent control. It supplies eight discrete inputs and two speed outputs, as well as 16 output relay channels (with up to 1,000 on/off set points/dwells). The output from the limit switch is available as sink, source or TTL and simplifies replacement of old-style mechanical switches such as cams, proximity sensors and microswitches while enhancing flexibility and performance. Additional features include eight separate programs which can be stored in memory, easy-to-use programming, programmable keypad and display and supervisory lock-out commands.

Astrosystems Automation Div., (516) 567-5500

Item #378

Glue pattern controller uses advanced technology to simplify complex carton/case sealing operations

Providing up to 16 gluing events per channel, four independent gluing channels per program and a 16-program memory storage, the new VTC-ME multi-event glue pattern controller can manage complex gluing designs. The touchscreen interface uses simple icon displays for set-up and operation, allowing operators and technicians to quickly familiarize themselves with the system. Additional features include hot-melt and/or cold-glue compatibility, automatic pattern and pressure compensation, supervisory controlled security, multi-lingual control menus and optional production monitor/batch marker. Even with all its advanced technology and performance features, VTC-ME is simple to install, program and operate.

ITW Dynatec, (800) 860-6150

Item #379

Modular plastic conveyor belt tackles tough case handling applications

The new thick, heavy-duty Series 1400 Flat Friction Top conveyor belt withstands challenging case conveyance applications. Its rated belt strength of 1,800 pounds per foot permits long belt runs with few transfer points and its 1-inch pitch makes it ideal for high-speed, end-off/end-on transfers. The rubber-topped modules of the Series 1400 belt securely grip cases during steep inclines and declines. These two-material modules are co-injection molded, combining high strength ratings and positive rubber coverage with the advantages of modular plastic conveyor belting. The belt modules are firmly bonded by Slidelox [TM], a positive rod retention system, which eliminates loose or protruding pieces. A rugged, lug-tooth drive interface provided by glass-filled, nylon molded split sprockets ensures proper sprocket engagement, even in high-speed, abusive applications.

Intralox Inc., (800) 535-8848

Item #380

Micro-controlled servo drive monitors application requirements to optimize performance

Smart Power, a new power management and assessment system which enhances the performance and reduces the cost of servo equipment, is available on Allen-Bradley Bulletin 1394 digital AC motion control devices. The micro controller works closely with the motion and axis micro controllers, measuring and controlling various power-related portions of the drive operation, motor regeneration and motor power use. This ability to precisely monitor application requirements helps optimize servo devices, allowing machine builders to select components of the correct rating and avoid the tendency to over-size equipment. The 1394's open architecture provides an integrated platform for multi-axes motion positioning and servo drive functionality and is ideal for packaging processes.

Rockwell Automation, (800) 223-5354, ext. 0906

Item #381

New dual-fan shrink tunnel is powerful, quiet and safe

Speed: 35 feet per minute

Designed to complement the new line of RenWrap L-Bar sealers, the dual-fan Model 1022 shrink tunnel quietly provides high-volume air flow. All ducts, floors, shields and hood have aggressive insulation for energy efficient operation while maintaining cool-to-the-touch outer surfaces. Standard features include top and bottom air dampers, four-directional air flow, fan cooled electrical components, five fin-style heaters and automatic shut-off after cool down. Optional features include crank-adjustable stand height, high-density roller kit and Teflon mesh conveyor belt. The tunnel has a chamber size of 22 x 36 x 10 inches. The DC variable-speed conveyor reaches speeds up to 35 fpm. Electrical requirements are 220 volts AC, single phase, 60 hertz, 40 amps. Heater wattage is 7.75 kilowatts.

Rennco Inc., (800) 409-5225

Item #426

Conveyor lane dividers provide line configuration flexibility

The line of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) conveyor lane dividers provides configuration flexibility in production line layout. The dividers are available in 5- or 10-foot lengths and 2 to 5 inches in height. A stainless steel sheath gives the dividers rigidity. They are compatible with the manufacturer's line of clips, clamps and other positioning devices which can be used to hold the dividers in place. A special nose plow is offered for diverting containers and a splicing system is used to connect multiple divider lengths.

Valu Guide Div., Valu Engineering Inc., (800) 825-8364

Item #427

Desk-size case erector is portable, heavy-duty and automatic

Speed: 12 cases per minute

Footprint: 36 x 66 inches About the size of a desk, miniErector 720 forms regular and half slotted containers (RSC and HSC) at rates up to 12 cpm. It accommodates knocked-down cases measuring 12 x 10 inches up to 28 x 15 inches. The case erector operates on 120 AC volts, 15 amps and 60 pounds per square inch of air. Changeovers can be performed without tools in less than five minutes. Casters are supplied for portability. The automatic machine offers supply-on-demand or single-cycle options and has a magazine capacity up to 100 "C" flute cases.

Wepackit Inc., (800) 889-4930 Item #428

Compact, rugged, user-friendly splicer automatically locates registration mark without operator intervention

aCompact, rugged, user-friendly FC-2000 Series of automatic splicers is offered with numerous options including automatic registration system, heat seal splicing capabilities, Lap or Butt splicing capabilities and CE and FDA compliance. Ideal for a host of packaging applications such as pouching, blister packs, overwrapping, bottle labeling, transdermal applications, hot pack cheese forming and more, the splicer features new "easy web" vertical festoon unwind rolls located near the floor for easy roll loading and a "flying cutter" shear cutting splice mechanism for precision web cutting. Other features built into this narrow web packaging splicer include touchscreen controls and modem for remote diagnostics and software downloading, as well as a unique registration system which does not rely on operator finesse or special techniques to ensure a precise registered splice. Registration eyes automatically move along a ball bushing shaft to locate the registration mark--without operator intervention.

CTC International Inc., (973) 228-2300, ext. 239

Item #429

Pneumatic valve-type bagger speeds along at eight 50-pound bags per minute

Powdermatic gross-weigh pneumatic baggers fill up to eight 50-pound bags per minute with powders, granules, flakes or pellets. Standard units include load cells and electronic controls that are accurate to within 0.025%. Bag weights can range from 25 to 110 pounds. Standard features include air operated bag clamps, tilting mechanical bag chair, low pressure air pump assembly with positive displacement rotary pump and positive pneumatic air controlled circuitry. Numerous options are offered such as auto-start actuator, food-grade construction and polish, air operated bag discharge chair and transition hoppers for multiple spout systems.

The Chantland-PVS Co., (515) 332-4040

Item #430

Automatic, high-speed palletizer is an affordable upgrade to continuous-motion palletizing

Speed: 90 cases per minute Ideal for packagers looking for a cost-effective transition from row-forming machinery to continuous-motion palletizing, the 910 Series packs technical advancements, flexibility and efficiency into a compact unit. Features include an optional right angle travel--or side discharge--to further machine configuration flexibility; stack-fed pallet dispensing, permitting multiple stack placement at the machine; and a single rear infeed to simplify conveyor layout and provide in-line, continuous product flow for high palletizing speeds and smooth, gentle product handling. The 2-inch center rollers ensure delicate handling of small, unstable packages, while a bi-parting plate apron provides further flexibility to handle a range package sizes and stacking patterns. An easy-to-use touchscreen interface provides quick access to complete diagnostics and pallet pattern information. The 910 is offered with either PC-based controls or PLC controls for optimal reliability and easy maintenance. The 910 is backed by exclusive Customer One Protection, a program that offers a 24-hour service hotline, complete operator training, spare parts and more.

Alvey Systems Inc., (800) 325-1596, ext. 2446

Item #431

Modular robotic case packer affords reliable automation at a low implementation cost

The modular PackWorld robotic case packer incorporates standard components such as a high-speed six-axis robot, MRC controller with menu-driven software, an integrated gripper package, powered conveyor(s) and an operator interface, restraining implementation costs and providing reliable automation. The flexible add-on modules allow for customizing or upgrading system capabilities with divider sheet insertion, bar code interface, case erectors and sealers, label applicators, multiple standard grippers and off-line programming. Each PackWorld system features a durable robot which can be configured to serve the desired application, with payloads ranging from 6.6 to 35.2 pounds and work areas ranging from 26.6 to 61.2 inches.

Motoman Inc., (937) 847-3300

Item #432

Compact horizontal form-fill-sealer grants the flexibility to produce single or twin pouches with perforations or pouch strips

The easy-to-operate Model B-1200 is a high-performance horizontal form-fill-sealer. The unit is for filling small portion packs with liquids or solids such as gel, shampoo, creams, ketchup, mustard, powders, granules, tablets and more. The flexible Model B-1200 can produce single pouches, twin pouches with perforations and/or pouch strips. The compact, robust machine can be integrated with the manufacturer's feed systems to handle application requirements. Special versions for non-standard shapes and sizes are available.

Bossar USA, (877) 734-4016 Item #433

Affordable machine vision system ensures product quality and accuracy

Cost: less than $1,300 Incorporating the power of a basic machine vision system into a sensor-style package, the F10 gray scale pattern-matching sensor offers rapid inspections for the price of a higher-end photoelectric device, reports the manufacturer. F10 detects patterns rather than spots to broaden its range of applications. The unit detects label presence or absence and determines whether a label is upside down or skewed or if more than one label is present. Users simply "teach" the sensor to recognize certain patterns by focusing a visible light guide on the object. Applications include pattern matching, accurate label placement, printing verification and conformity checks.

Omron Electronics, (800) 55-OMRON Item #434

Pouch flattener/conditioner reduces product height in cartons, trays and cases

This new pouch flattener and conditioner evenly distributes product within the pouch to reduce overall thickness, resulting in product height reduction within cases, trays and cartons. Ideal for products such as cocoa, oatmeal and popcorn, the machine also helps improve the automated handling and stability of products into cartoners, tray loaders and case packers. The unit features-heavy duty construction, matched speed top and bottom conveying belts, an Allen-Bradley Micrologixr controller and an air operated retracting nose reject.

Packaging Systems Automation Inc., (800) 301-1140

Item #435

Versatile high-speed pharmaceutical labeler processes numerous container types with minimal change parts

Speed: 150 containers per minute The NV-II HS automatic, self-adhesive labeler grants pharmaceutical and nutraceutical packagers high-speed production, accurate label placement and fast equipment changeovers to accommodate product line versatility. The unit handles cylindrical, flat, square or oval plastic or glass containers measuring 10 to 150 millimeters with minimal change parts. Features include independent variable-speed controls for product conveying speed and label application speed, stepper motor web feed, full documentation of all machine functions and compatibility with most integrated turnkey pharmaceutical packaging systems. Meeting FDA standards for equipment validation and Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) for the pharmaceutical industry, the labeler's options include hot foil or thermal transfer printing, missing label detectors, label and product counters and bar code readers for multi-product packaging lines.

Newman Machinery, (908) 359-9511

Item #436

Rejection/distribution system gently handles containers at high speeds

Speed: up to 1,000 cpm

The high-speed TSS Triangle-Soft-Step system gently redirects faulty containers or containers that must be multi-laned for further operations. A vertically positioned polyvinyl chloride triangle/reject segment with a slide length of about 60 millimeters forms an extension of the conveyor guide rails. When activated by a signal from a monitoring device, the triangle/rejection segment turns about 120 degrees in the running direction and gently, quietly directs the container to its proper lane. Containers can be spaced or touching each other. Its patented DC motor with speed-clutch combination reaches speeds up to 1,000 containers per minute, depending on container and type of conveyor.

European Packaging Machinery Inc., (732) 845-3557

Item #437

Self-contained hot-melt gluing system breaks through price, versatility and performance barriers

Cost: $1,795

Ideal for light-duty hot-melt adhesive packaging applications, the JR-1 bulk-loading hot-melt delivery system is an effective and inexpensive alternative to existing hand-held slug guns or to larger systems that have been oversized. JR-1 incorporates technological advances to boost productivity, simplify operator training and reduce worker fatigue. The system's lightweight hose and integrated cool-touch L6 handgun facilitates access to confined work areas where hot-melt material must be dispensed at a variety of angles. Sold completely assembled and ready to run, the JR-1 system is totally self-contained. An operator simply connects the unit to an electrical power source, loads the tank with bulk adhesive and begins the application process after the molten adhesive reaches operating temperature. For additional simplicity, a digital controller enables operators to turn a single knob to select the temperature of the tank, hose and handgun. The melt unit pump operates only when the handgun switch is triggered.

Slautterback Corp., (800) 827-3308

Item #438

Continuous-motion stand-up poucher forms, fills and seals air-free, stand-up pouches

Speed: 60 pouches per minute

The 3030A vertical form-fill-seal system makes air-free, stand-up pouches then fills and seals them in one high-speed, continuous motion. This all-in-one system, which runs up to 60 ppm, makes pouches up to 1 liter and consumes about one third the floor space of traditional systems, reports the manufacturer. The 3030A offers a double sealing mechanism and an automatic film guidance system. It is also easy to operate with touchscreen controls. Ideal for applications such as salad dressings, soups, fruit juices, sauces and condiments, 3030A also works well with non-food items including detergents, lotions, oils or soaps.

Cryovac Div., Sealed Air Corp., (800) 845-3456

Item #439

CLARIFICATION

The bottle with the handle illustrated in the Packaging Engineer supplement included in the December 1998 issue was a picture of a recently introduced bottle from Smith Container Corp.

COPYRIGHT 1999 Stagnito Communications
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group