ULMA Packaging has introduced a new range of TFX thermoformers for the food industry, targeting improved productivity and efficiency.
The new thermoformers is said to have high performance and operational availability, with technologies such as movement synchronisation that apparently improves productivity by up to 10% and the vacuum system design which reduces the vacuum cycle time by up to 20%.
ULMA Packaging adds that the TFX range features automatic film alignment, precise zone heating and atmosphere control in the sealing area. The company also offers in-line quality control solutions for verifying and inspecting labels and the sealing area to ensure high quality and food safety.
The TFX line aims to reduce format changeover times with technologies like touchscreen-controlled tray height adjustment, automatic film and label roll changeovers, and help reduce downtime with quick-release systems for longitudinal cutting. ULMA has developed an RFID verification system to minimize errors during changeover which automatically identifies moulds and cutting tools based on the selected format and recipe and is also said to reduce setup times and enhance operational safety.
ULMA says the position of the control panels enable operators to have clear access to all machine functions, reportedly enhancing usability and reducing unnecessary movement on the production floor. Centralized recipe management allows machines to auto-adjust settings based on production orders, while built-in monitoring tools track usage of film, electricity, air, and gas by shift or batch. At the end of each run, the system generates a PDF report giving manufacturers a comprehensive view of production performance.
Back in February, ULMA Packaging revealed its Width-Flex technology for thermoforming machines, said to reduce film waste by up to 80%, improve efficiency and minimize operational downtime. The system includes an operator interface with standard operating procedure (SOP) guided changeovers displayed on the machine screen, reportedly allowing users to complete format changes in under 45 minutes.
Theegarten-Pactec announced its BHS high-speed machine for bouillon cubes last month, said to set a ‘new speed record’ with an output of 3,000 packaged products per minute, offering additional features for minimized downtime, increased hygiene, and more. Requiring no lubrication and with oil changes limited to once a year ‘at most’, the BHS is believed to be cost-efficient throughout its life, with energy consumption set to decrease by 50% per packaged product compared to other packaging machines.
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