Syntegon to showcase size reduction in human interface cartoner at Interpack

07 Feb 2023 --- Syntegon will unveil its upgraded functionalities for Kliklok’s endload cartoner BEC at Interpack, Waiblingen, Germany, May 10-14. The machine will display an optimized drive system, a human machine interface (HMI) 4.0, a redesigned frame and new controls. 

The cartoner targets mid-sized companies that seek to automate their cartoning processes. As an entry-level machine, its recent upgrade includes servo motors instead of mechanical drive technology – an essential requirement for stable operations. BEC’s frame has been redesigned to reduce its size. 

“The machine will display an optimized drive system using servo motors, an HMI 4.0 for simpler Digital Service connectivity and optimal line integration, as well as new controls and a redesigned frame resulting in a smaller footprint, Russell Morgan, technical sales director at Kliklok, Bristol, UK, tells PackagingInsights. 

The BEC will be on display at Interpack as part of an integrated line to demonstrate the packing of single cakes. A Syntegon Robotic Pick-and-Place (RPP) platform will group place five flow-wrapped pieces into the infeed of the BEC, which will then sideload them into the cartons at a speed of up to 135 cartons per minute.

Kliklok’s new endload cartoner BEC takes up less space than previous models. Hygienic cartoning
The servo technology allows the company “to synchronize different drive components, securing repeatable product placement. The more precisely products are placed into the cartons, the less rejects and downtimes customers will face,” says Morgan. 

Beckhoff, a German-based automation company, controls discrete central processing unit boxes that allow for simple cabling without electrical cabinets, leading to a compact overall layout. 

“The latest Kliklok BEC offers the benefits of our proven machine series combined with the latest technological advancements to meet the requirements of automated production processes,” Morgan continues.

The BEC’s reduced size lends itself to operating the cartoner on limited floor space. In combination with its hygienic stainless steel, the company states the BEC endload cartoner gives a robust, hygienic and reliable cartoning solution. 

“The BEC stands out for its compact footprint with minimum cabling that eliminates the need for electrical cabinets. And last but not least: the machine’s Rotary Carton Infeed, a unique USP from Kliklok that allows for optimal carton control.”

Packagers showcasing their innovations at previous Interpack event (Image credit: Interpack). Take four: Human machine interface
Syntegon says that as an organization grows, the requirements for comprehensive reporting will increase, requiring additional connectivity and access to digital services. With its HMI 4.0, the BEC supports optimal line integration while providing easy access to Syntegon’s Digital Service Solutions. 

The HMI 4.0 offers secure connectivity with Syntegon’s Digital Service portfolio. The full range of connectivity options and controls enables customers to connect the machine to a company’s higher-level system and integrate it with existing upstream and downstream equipment.

“Our service solutions support customers in their quest to achieve ever higher levels of overall equipment effectiveness by giving them greater visibility of their processes. With the HMI 4.0, customers now benefit not only from enhanced connectivity but the ability to access information on performance down to a component level.”

HMI provides production data at the “touch of a button” – besides tracking critical OEE data, machine settings and alarms, the interface guides operators through the machine’s set-up and start-up. Instructional videos assist them during the different steps. 

“Thanks to the HMI 4.0, customers will gain more transparency and insights about machine conditions and easier availability of digital services – which in turn leads to a higher overall equipment effectiveness and lower maintenance costs in the long term,” asserts Morgan. 

Additional upgrades
Customers who wish to upgrade the latest BEC generation can choose from various additional options, including vibration and temperature monitoring of key technical components like bearings and motors. “Those functionalities contribute to reducing downtime since they allow to schedule preemptive maintenance work,” continues Morgan.

As with all Syntegon equipment, the company’s redesigned Service Agreements will be available for the new BEC endload cartoner. The Service Agreement packages ensure customers’ effective asset and maintenance management at fixed costs.

Syntegon will release three consecutive packages of Synexio, with the entry-level package “Monitor” available for the BEC later this year. This package visualizes various key performance indicators to help companies achieve transparency over their production.

By Sabine Waldeck