Why packaging machines need to talk to each other - PMMI

The growth in machine-to-machine communication systems in the packaging sector is an opportunity industry players should take full advantage of, says North American trade association PMMI.

Tom Egan, vice president of industry services at the packaging machinery body, told FoodProductionDaily.com the technology makes it possible for engineers to gather and analyse performance data in real time from packing lines that allows them to optimise operating efficiencies and maximise uptime.

He outlines the advantages of PACK ML, the packaging machine language that helps systems from different companies communicate with other, and analyses why take up of the technology is still not as widespread as many believed it would be.

However, Egan urges companies to embrace data collection and cross-machine communication systems, declaring them to be highly effective tools in helping businesses boost efficiency and flexibility – key attributes as the industry continues to become leaner.