“This makes operation of the entire line as simple as operating a single machine and reduces the risk of operator errors, which can cause lengthy and costly production stoppages,” the company said.
Consisting of horizontal flow wrapping machine Sigpack HRM and the cartoner Sigpack TTM, Bosch claims this is the first system designed specifically for both the primary and secondary packaging of bars and bar-shaped products.
The cartoner Sigpack TTM was developed for speeds of up to 150 cartons per minute the firm said, this enables an overall output of 1,000 bars or more per minute.
Reduced changeover times
Benefits of the packaging line include a reduction in cleaning and format changeover times to a few minutes.
Detlef Gottstein product manager at Bosch Packaging Systems told ConfectioneryNews.com the times were reduced through optimal accessibility, tool-less changeover and “innovative changeover strategies”.
The hygienic system design of the line results in enhanced accessibility, better visibility and ease of cleaning, he said.
“As far as the machines are concerned (primary and secondary packaging) we have eliminated dirt traps, corners and gaps and increased the floor clearance. Moreover we have developed special cleaning functions,” said Gottstein.
Accuracy and flexibility
Human errors are reduced through automated precision splicing at speeds of up to 150 meters per minute which means operators can place new reels onto the splicer, said Bosch.
“The accuracy of the splicing process reduces waste and saves material costs,” said the company.
Gottstein said the line is also flexible, with packaging formats and styles that can be changed when required.
A range of product sizes from a 25mm bar up to a tablet can be packed on one line.
The system can accommodate for different pack styles in the primary packaging and multipacks as well as a wide range of different carton formats (counts and styles), he said.
“Flexibility will be supported by the reduced changeover times with a better start-up which allows for just-in-time production,” said Gottstein.
In addition, the machine can be equipped for cold, heat and even ultrasonic sealing due to the build-in situation in the flow wrapping machine (HRM), he explained.
This enables the customer to make the choice between these three options, he said.
Furthermore, the cartoner Sigpack TTM is capable of handling materials with a high recycling content to comply with increasing sustainability demands, said the product manager.
While launching the new line, Bosch also announced its new “Confectionery & Food” unit will begin operations in the upcoming weeks.
The company said the unit will bring together its operations in these industries to “serve customer needs more comprehensively”.