September 8, 2023
Numerous inquiries regarding line setup, compatibility with production, connectivity, and communication get thrown at packaging manufacturers.
An end-of-line project, particularly one involving pallet packaging, entails considerable technical intricacies, encompassing numerous specifics that necessitate collaboration between the manufacturer's engineering departments and the customer.
Without delving deeply into technical specifics, this article compiles the most commonly asked questions (FAQs) that emerge during the initiation of a new packaging project. Drawing from our extensive experience in a variety of end-of-line projects, we provide answers to these queries.
Here are packaging line-related questions businesses ask packaging equipment manufacturers.
A packaging line comprises systems designed to safeguard and secure products for transportation and storage. At its core, it features at least one system that offers protection and stability, like the automatic stretch wrapper or stretch hood.
Depending on the product type and project specifications, it might incorporate additional fastening systems such as sealing systems, support wrapping solutions, and pallet strapping.
In each project, a comprehensive study is essential to seamlessly integrate the packaging line with the customer's existing production and palletizing lines. The packaging manufacturer and engineering team carefully evaluate and devise line elements that best suit the customer's requirements, ensuring a seamless connection and efficient workflow.
Integration considerations encompass the following aspects:
Theoretically, a packaging line can incorporate all the necessary packaging systems per the customer's requirements or project specifications. However, the constraint here is the available facility space.
The technical or engineering team strives to achieve the optimal mix of required systems while considering the ultimate packaging goals and space efficiency. While customers might desire additional systems, each project is individually assessed to determine their necessity based on core objectives.
The answer to this frequently asked question is this — an automatic packaging line is designed for complete end-of-line automation. However, there are situations where a customer's facility or production process may still involve using semi-automatic systems.
Typically, when outlining a line project, the pallet flow is structured to be fully automatic from input to output following the final stretch hooding process. It's generally not recommended to interrupt this process by introducing a semi-automatic system in the middle of the line, as it can impact productivity.
Nevertheless, food packaging manufacturers would tell you that there might be exceptions where manual or semi-automatic systems exist before or after the packaging line. A typical example is the presence of pallet transport vehicles.
When requested by the client, we ensure that the new packaging line can seamlessly integrate with the existing conveyor systems. If the client's project involves renovating the installation and the current conveyor line is in suitable condition and capable of adapting to the new systems, it could be utilized.
Alternatively, your package manufacturer might connect the new line to the existing conveyor system through appropriate connection and elevation mechanisms.
The stretch hood system is designed to occupy a smaller footprint than typical packaging lines. The machine itself is designed to minimize its space requirements.
Moreover, the conveyor line can be adjusted and tailored to fit the customer's facility as closely as possible. This adaptability is achieved through elevation, rotation, and connection systems.
The suitability of the manufacturing packaging line for different pallet formats varies depending on the specific circumstances. At Plan IT Packaging, our standard packaging line is designed to handle standard pallet sizes used in various industries like construction, ceramics, chemicals, and agrifood.
We cater to pallets with minimum dimensions of 32 x 24 inches (800 x 600 mm) and maximum dimensions of 80 x 55 inches (2000 x 1400 mm), along with heights reaching up to 100 inches (2500 mm).
If your pallet size deviates significantly from these standard measurements, we encourage you to contact us for a detailed assessment. Our packaging manufacturing team can evaluate the compatibility of your project with our packaging systems, considering your production's unique requirements.
Within a comprehensive end-of-line automation project, it's typical to incorporate Automatic Guided Vehicles to move pallets between the palletizing line, the packaging line, and the manufacturing packaging logistics warehouse.
However, it's also common for these automated vehicles to work alongside semi-automatic alternatives like forklifts operated by drivers or motorized pallet trucks.
Plan IT Packaging’s packaging line design considers the accessibility requirements for various transport vehicles. It includes implementing ground-level transport systems suitable for pallet trucks or integrating roller conveyors that can be adapted for AGV infeed.
Addressing all inquiries while defining and designing the packaging line project is crucial. At Plan IT Packaging, our engineering and technical-commercial consulting teams meticulously examine every detail and specification to ensure the packaging process is optimal, efficient, and of top-notch quality.
We work with packaging manufacturers like you. Feel free to reach out with any questions related to your packaging project. We're more than happy to provide you with answers and assistance.
