GERMANY – Bavarian-based equipment specialist Somic is displaying its new 434 machine line for tray packaging, tray lid, or wraparound solutions, and the Somic Coras collection and grouping system, at Interpack 2023.
The new modular Somic 434 machine concept is based on proven, tested, standardized function groups and offers maximum performance on a compact footprint.
According to the company, Somic 434 claims to handle up to 34 cartons per minute in a standard cycle or 60 cartons per minute in a double cycle, depending on the product or carton’s size, characteristics, and design. Appropriate grouping is thought to make higher outputs possible.
The 434 series builds upon the previous Somic 424 generation of machines for single- and multi-part cardboard packaging in a wraparound concept or packaging solutions featuring a tray and lid.
It presents a slim and linear footprint with a collection and grouping unit docked onto the side of the machine in a separate frame concept.
The functional groups for the carton infeed, carton forming unit, product loading unit, and closing unit are integrated in a linear fashion and implemented in a standardized design within the stainless steel machine frame.
As such, the supply chain infrastructure within the machine is said to be completely streamlined.
In addition, the frame’s support structure is now on the inside to hold all the functional groups – a development expected to give operators optimal access to the cartoning stations.
To access the machine and work from inside it, they can open the frame-high guard doors at a 180-degree angle, which are, in turn, designed to improve the use of space around the machine.
LED lights have been integrated into the corner columns of the machine to indicate a machine’s status from afar, replacing the standard signal light on the machine frame.
Somic’s QuickChange System is said to facilitate the changing of the remaining format parts, which can be controlled by an operator panel; Somic technicians estimate that time savings of up to 70% are achieved during format change using this system.
The filling system for the gluing unit has also been integrated into the service cabinet in a design set to enable the convenient refilling of glue granulate from outside the machinery.
Meanwhile, Somic Coras intends to offer an alternative to collection systems that feature a lamella chain.
Using planar technology, its drive and positioning system expects to provide a quick and compact solution for the unrestricted assembly of product groupings.
SOIC managing director Patrick Bonetsmüller said: “With this new development, we have demonstrated how our technical teams adequately capture and implement the market requirements.
“The results are convincing. We were able to realize this new machine concept in a mere two years. That is an outstanding team effort.”
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