At PACK EXPO, Heat and Control is displaying new capabilities for its compact, all-in-one Ishida ACP Series case packer for bagged snack foods. The fully automatic system features case packing, case alignment, bag packing, sorting, closing, and sealing in one machine at speeds up to 150 packages [10 cases]/min.
A key capability for the system is its ability to run tape cases and push lock/slide lock cases in the same machine, even accommodating a combination of the two styles of top and bottom closures. For example, a company may opt away from manual operations, automating a push lock bottom and a tape top. This is particularly timely, product manager BJ Holden explains, as companies deal with labor shortages and look to automate case packing functions where possible.
Holden also notes that brands in the snack industry have been implementing reusable cases—often printed with branding—that drivers return to the processing site. This has lead to rising demand for case packers that can accommodate reusable cases.
Case aligning and closing mechanisms are fully integrated, removing the need for additional conveyors and creating an all-in-one case packing solution. An integratable seal checker checks for defective packs, while the system features gentle, vacuum-free bag handling. Changeovers can routinely be performed in 3 minutes, with preset options that allow for the machine to be automatically set up without the need for tools or any other manual operation.
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