April 2019
6 gold-star stories about packaging
With the first quarter of the year now behind us, one of the hottest topics in packaging continues to be sustainability, based on high readership of articles about Amazon and Nestlé posted last month on PackagingDigest.com. But we also saw keen interest in packaging for digital healthcare, as well as in…
New machine vision tech improves high-speed counting, tracking
New event-based machine vision technology offers increased productivity and equipment monitoring in industrial uses. Enhancements in the product line include ultra-high-speed counting, real-time tracking, man/machine teaming and vibration monitoring for predictive maintenance.From Prophesee SA, the products include the Onboard reference system, which provides guidance for developers to implement the manufacturer’s neuromorphic…
IoT-enabled label applicator optimizes production efficiency
The Herma 500 label applicator is an internet of things (IoT)-enabled system that achieves labeling speeds up to 200 meters per minute, handles label widths from 80 to 320 millimeters, and works with roll diameters from 300 to 600mm. From Herma US, the unit uses real-time metrics to optimize production efficiency…
Coder verifies print on flexible packaging to avoid waste and recalls
Detect-Plus, an add-on module for SmartDate thermal transfer overprinter coders, verifies the presence, position and quality of codes printed directly on film packaging. From Markem-Imaje, it can be purchased new with or retrofitted to SmartDate X40 or X60 coders.By checking codes on the flexible film packaging itself, the technology helps users…
New masterbatch boosts PET bottle production efficiency
A new additive masterbatch that aids the mobility of injection stretch blow-molded (ISBM) polyethylene terephthalate bottles allows manufacturers and brand owners to run conveyor belts and production robots without needing a spray coating. The material helps users maintain PET recyclability and adhere to European PET Bottle Platform guidelines.The capability enables operators…
All-in-one case packaging system touts flexibility, top productivity
The new Flex E Pack all-in-one case packaging system combines an automatic case former and an automatic case sealer to create a single integrated system for operators looking to move beyond semi-automatic machinery with a compact, ergonomic setup.Jointly created by Wexxar Bel and Matrix, the integrated design of the Flex E…
Robotic tooling enables tailor-made automated packaging systems
A new line of robotic end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) equipment is designed to empower customers to build automated systems to fit their specific applications. The line of 600 components from Piab includes standard products in a variety of sizes and dimensions.The modular components enable users to build automation tooling systems to fit…
Returnable beverage multipack fits inside reusable crates
The new Fillbee returnable four- or six-bottle multipack can fit inside reusable beverage crates—or be stacked by itself. Typically, returnable bottle crates are used either with loose bottles, or with one-way packs. By contrast, the Fillbee from DS Smith fits right into regular returnable crates, which means glass or polyethylene terephthalate…