GEA will be presenting the newly developed GEA SmartPacker TwinTube vertical high-speed packaging machine at PackExpo in Las Vegas, USA, from 23 to 25 September 2019. The entire machine has been redesigned as a future-proof modular system with increased functionality for greater availability and user-friendliness.
The Packaging machine for pillow bags is a continuous motion, vertically orientated machine suitable for packaging small food products such as sweets, nuts and dried fruit and other snacks in various sizes for on-the-go. The machine is part of a complete packaging process with upstream and downstream equipment that is operated in a dry production line.
It works with two parallel moulding tubes and achieves a combined Speed of up to 500 bags per minute (with a weight of 10 to 18 g each). It is also possible to use a different film roll for each tube, so that bags of different widths or designs can be filled at the same time.
A new feature of the machine is the integration of the jumbo roll, which makes it possible to use film rolls weighing up to 100 kg for long production runs - this increases operating efficiency.
"The new TwinTube is Modular designThis allows customers to easily add new options and upgrade their machine, extending the life cycle of the system. In addition, we have increased ease of use by introducing tool-less set-up options that enable shorter changeover times and error-free machine set-up - including the printer, labeller and vertical sealing unit," explains Martijn van de MortelProduct Manager Vertical Packaging at GEA and adds: "With these new updates, we are able to fulfil our customers' requirements in terms of automated process control, reduced operator dependency, greater availability and operational efficiency."
Reinforced sealing for more flexibilityThe new SmartPacker features a new jaw closing mechanism, an optimised heating unit and a vertical rotary sealing unit that ensures robust packaging performance and excellent pack sealing tightness. The new jaw closing mechanism offers more than the Triple sealing force compared to the previous method and can apply 6000N.
This enables the use of thicker films or films with a wide range of properties in relation to the Seal requirements. Thanks to the more stable suspension of the longitudinal seam unit and the reproducible and precise positioning by spindle and ruler, shorter changeover times are possible when changing formats or film. "With this development, packaging producers are able to work with more demanding films and meet the needs of retailers and consumers in terms of bag quality and an even wider range of film materials," says Martijn van de Mortel.
Simple labelling, operation and maintenance
The new GEA TwinTube is optionally equipped with a new, fully integrated GEA TiroLabel unit, which makes the machine even more compact in the factory. The special labelling unit delivers a speed of up to 180 labels per minute at a width of 150 mm and achieves millimetre accuracy when placing the labels.
The label roll has a quick-change operation, which means it can be changed in seconds with minimal downtime.
Easy to operate and maintain
The machine is characterised by an innovative open design with double-wing doors for an easy access. easy access and transparent panels for Maximum visibility aThe sealing area. The hinged front panel of the machine, to which the sealing arms and the vertical seal are attached, can be opened completely and allows unrestricted access and easy maintenance. All parts requiring maintenance are easily accessible.
GEA at PackExpo 2019: Stand LS-5905
