The Salwasser Model ITL 300 integrated top load case packer has been available since March this year and can be shipped worldwide.
The automatic case packer is capable of top loading product into regular slotted container (RSC) or half slotted carton (HSC) cases.
The firm said a variety of pick heads are available including vacuum, mechanical, and combination vacuum/mechanical styles and options for washdown, caustic washdown, and stainless construction are available.
Cycle rate of 15/min
Craig Friesen, product line manager at Thiele Technologies, told FoodProductionDaily.com the current maximum cycle rate is 15 per minute but further testing will be performed in the hope of increasing speed.
Maximum run speed for any project depends on the product and case configuration, he added.
Friesen said: “There are many products which must be top loaded, due to the nature or shape of the product. Others could be side or end loaded, but manipulating the product to get it in position adds complexity to the equipment.
“In these situations, top loading is the simplest and most efficient way to get product into the case. Bottom loading is similar in this regard, but there is always the challenge of closing and sealing the bottom of the case after loading through it.”
Friesen added the current maximum cycle rate is 15 per minute but further testing will be performed in the hope of increasing speed.
Maximum run speed for any project depends on the product and case configuration, he added.
Attention to flexibility
“One of the aspects of the machine that we have paid particular attention to is flexibility.
“Over the years we have seen customer requirements to modify and upgrade machinery to run their current products,” he said.
“This machine has been designed to be fully automatic and fully contained, yet modular in nature which will allow us to customize and change the infeed parameters to meet the customer’s exact needs.
“This flexibility allows for the best design when the machine is purchased, and leaves options available for easy conversion in the future.”
Case opening is handled using opposed vacuum cups, and case transfer is accomplished with servo-driven side belts.
Case sealing options include standard tape or hot melt closure, said the company.
Friesen said product handling capability is very broad and includes food and pharmaceutical.
“Anything that can be top loaded into a case is a candidate.
“We have been building top load case packers for many years so have a lot of experience with gripper designs.”