SOMIC (Hall 13, Stand D04) demonstrated the highly modular WA 414-w/3 wrap-around packer for display cartons, folding boxes and trays. Highly adaptable, it is a universal design that’s being used to pack metal cans, pouches, candy bars and more.

All collating, cartoning and sealing processes are performed on one working level to aid operation and visual troubleshooting. Four robotic modules are mounted overhead to maximize freedom of movement and minimize footprint.

The robots can handle an infinitely variable range of package formats. A range of turning and gripping solutions offers precise, gentle product handling. Dual servos on grouping belts adjust the distance between lugs automatically for
tool-less format changes.

This highly flexible packer is equipped with 14 servo axes controlled by ELAU’s PacDrive automation system, which performs all feeding, changeover and robotic functions. The unit demonstrated at Interpack is capable of packing over 500 candy bars per minute.

There are no chains to lubricate or adjust. Instead, toothed belts and powerful, high speed vacuum belts are used to transport primary packages, blanks and filled packs. Instead of a chain system with paddles, one-clamp, cart-mounted, quick change collation units are set up to handle popular multiples.

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