The firm describes the packer “as a flexible high speed system for vertical case packing quad bags, pouches and doy packs”.
The new precision all stainless steel robot, which uses a Elau/Schneider control system, represents the latest development from the company and has widespread applications, particularly for manufacturers of snack packs and bags, confectionery and coffee, said the firm.
Key features of the system include a unique product transfer system that collates the products beneath the gripper, so that the pick and place can handle a complete case formation, i.e. groups of 10 products at a time, increasing throughput on the line.
The gripper head and unique case opening system has been specially designed for vertical case packing in to display cases and other shelf ready formats.
The robot can pack bags straight from the bagger to maintain a continuous packing process.
Tekpak business development director Imelda Kehoe said: “Automating the off-line/WIP (work in progress) operation is a major benefit for our customers because it reduces product lead time and can have a big impact on line efficiency.”
According to the firm, the system can also include an integrated case erector and closer for shelf ready display cases which allows for a more compact footprint of just 8m2.
In operation, bags/pouches arrive into the collator pocket on edge direct from a VFFS machine or bagger. They are rotated to an upright position then collated in the pick position in the required matrix to fill the case – typically two rows of 4,5 or 6.
The line provides a product speed of 150/minute and a case speed of 10-15/minute and can be managed by one operative.
