Automation Update - Issue 30

| EK11-14E |

Extremely accurate. Extremely fast.

Next-generation measurement technology AUTOMATION UPDATE with Beckhoff EtherCAT Terminals.

WWW.AUTOMATION-UPDATE.CO.UK

Issue 30

< 1 μs synchronisation 100 ppm 24 bits 10,000 samples/s

Extremely accurate. Extremely fast. www.beckhoff.co.uk/EL3751

With the EL3751 EtherCAT Terminal, Beckhoff unveils the first product in its new generation of high-precision I/Os for measurement technology. These scalable terminals integrate high-end measurement technology directly into the standard I/O system. Superior precision and sampling rates ensure high-quality data acquisition: Multi-functional input: U, I, R, strain gauge, RTD (PT100/1000) High-precision timing: exact synchronisation < 1 μs High-precision values: measurement accuracy of better than 100 ppm at 23 °C Fast: 10,000 samples/s Proactive: integrated connection and functional diagnostics 24-bit ∆∑ ADC, integrated distributed clocks, 107 percent ExtendedRange Optional higher-order calibration by the user EtherCAT is ideal for numerous measurement applications

Next-generation measurement technology with Beckhoff EtherCAT Terminals.

AUTOMATION UPDATE Editorial Assistant Ellen Tayler 01843 580 460 ellen@automation-update.co.uk Publishing Director Jodie Little 01843 580 460 jodie@jetdigitalmedia.co.uk Sales Director Tim Johnston 01843 448 443 tim@automation-update.co.uk Advertising Exec Jamie Simmons 01843 580 460 jamie@automation-update.co.uk

Automation Update is an engaging, editorially led publication & directory giving the reader news and updates on new products and services to our ever Progressing industry.

Publishing House Jet Digital Media Ltd The Forge Spratling Court Office Spratling Court Farm Manston, Kent CT12 5AN

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LGC AUTOMATION WEIGHS UP THE OPTIONS AND PUTS HBM LOAD CELLS IN FIRST PLACE THANKS TO ITS OUTSTANDING PRODUCT WITH FLAWLESS CUSTOMER SERVICE. Confronted with the demand for ever increasing precision and higher speeds in packaging – often with expectations of reduced costs at the same time – weighing and packaging machine manufacturers in the food and agriculture industry are faced with a challenge.

Background Based in Isère in France, LGC Automation was founded by Francis Le Garric and Thierry Cerisay. With over 25 years of experience within the industry, Francis and Thierry brought together a wealth of experience and subsequent expertise, which has enabled them to successfully bring a range of quality and competitively priced packaging and weighing machines to the market.

Meeting the demand Following its decision to develop weighing and packaging machines, specifically targeted to the needs of small companies and craftsmen in the food and agriculture industry, LGC were initially confronted with the need to produce a range of machines which met the demand for ever increasing precision and higher speeds, at an affordable cost. In short, LGC Automation needed to ensure its machines met the criteria, without compromising on either functionality or performance.

Taking these factors into consideration, LGC Automation took the decision to develop a range of semi-automatic standard machines which offer flexible performance. The benefits of this are two-fold. Featuring 1 or 2 product feed hoppers; this enables products to be conveyed by means of vibrating rails or conveyor belts. Featuring a mechanism for filling sachets directly or via the bucket to minimise cost, this also means that fragile products, such as biscuits, dried fruits, coffee, berries and confectionary products sold by weight, can also be accurately filled, offering manufacturers a versatile solution. When it came to the measurement chain, LGC Automation took the decision to specify its own circuit board for the processing electronics and a touch-screen tablet in Bluetooth mode for the display and user interface. However, this left LGC in a predicament when it came to the weight sensor.

“From the start we wanted to have an RS232 interface so that we could connect the cell to our circuit board”, explains Thierry Cerisay.

“In addition, we needed a small product which

4 - Automation Update

would fit well with our compact machines and finally, we needed a product which was correctly protected against overloading”.

more importantly, it admired its commitment, dedication and the service which was always extended to customers.

Traditionally purchased as part of a complete package, the load cell is one of the most crucial components in constructing powerful packaging machines. When it comes to specifying the load cell, precision and speed are crucial elements, ultimately because both factors can offer considerable cost savings; precision because it makes for improved safety margins and speed because faster weighing means greater output.

“Having previously worked alongside HBM in the past, I have always been impressed with its level of commitment to customers – large or small, in difficult times or in the face of a lack of prospective orders – the level of service is never compromised”, says Thierry Cerisay.

“Despite being one of its smaller customers, we were always aware of the same level of listening and the same level of support when studying the different technical options available to us, so in our mind, we are in no doubt that we chose the best solution”, concludes Thierry.

Big things come in small packages With this in mind, the compact PW20i weight sensor from HBM was the obvious choice.

Optimised for dynamic weighing applications, such as those specified by the new state of the art range of machines from LGC Automation, the PW20i load cell met the requirements of filling sachets ranging from a few tens of grams to 1.5 kg, with measurement in accuracy in order of the gram.

This enabled LGC Automation to accomplish the objectives it set out to achieve – flexibility and versatility. Easy to fit with 2 screws to fix it to the machine structure and 2 screws to fix the plate, the PW20i also offered a protection against overloading, which is a central requirement, as the bagging plate can be exposed to shocks, for example, as a result of operating errors which can occur.

In addition, the PW20i also offered additional benefits such as its high resonance frequency, which meant that no electronic filters or reduction measures needed to be applied.

Also offering an IP65 degree of protection, as initially specified by LGC Automation in its initial proposal, PW20i load cells also feature an accuracy class C3 per OIML, which provides total precision and ensures that overfill is kept to a minimum, which in turn, dramatically reduces waste.

Above and beyond In terms of functionality, LGC Automation was in no doubt that the PW20i from HBM ticked all the boxes. However, when it came to specifying a suitable load cell, it wasn’t just the practical aspects which put HBM firmly at the top of its game. Following a healthy relationship of over 20 years, LGC Automation was not only impressed with the quality range of weighing technologies available from HBM but perhaps

When size doesn’t matter – it’s the little things that count!

Regardless of the size of a project or its individual requirements, HBM is all too aware of the importance of excellent customer service, which comes as no surprise considering the pivotal role it plays. But how do you define good service? HBM recognises that the key factors at the heart of good service all come down to reliability and support; supporting the product and offering the customer a solution to the problem at hand. In short, regardless of the problem, the customer needs to feel that they can pick up the phone and help is at hand.

As continuous growth and competitive pressure look set to continue in the weighing and packaging market within the food industry, thanks to its assured partnership with HBM, LGC Automation is not only confident in its product but it also believes it has some exceptionally convincing arguments to put forward to its future clients with regards to quality and longevity. “The cells installed on our machines inspire confidence in every way, especially as they are provided by a leading manufacturer with extensive experience in weighing operations all over the world”, concludes Thierry Cerisay.

Application - Distribution and Logistics Key Problems

Product Benefits

Warehouse logistics and material handling system solutions require planned and reactive maintenance programs, often in elevated areas. The movement of goods in a distribution or manufacturing operation requires sophisticated automation systems. The higher the volume of movement the greater level of complexity required.

1. LOBO is scalable, adaptable and adjustable to meet your on-going and changing requirements.

Simply add more components or alter your existing configuration to satisfy the demands of the next task. Protect your initial investment with a product that will meet all your access needs safely!

Material flow solutions, using pallet or case conveyors, AGVs and monorails are a highly effective means of moving goods between work areas. They offer real time tracking of goods and added value tasks; for example wrapping , weighing and the sorting of goods.

2. LOBO is a rigid and stable product, which meets or exceeds current safety regulations. Handrails can be fitted in seconds, at any point in the erection process.

Maintenance is key to an efficient process, many areas are awkward and therefore difficult to reach; each task often being different from the last. Working at height must be accomplished safely and traditionally outsourced scaffolding companies and fixed aluminium tower systems have been deployed. Outsourced scaffolding labour is expensive and not available 24/7, aluminium frame systems are cumbersome, inflexible, difficult to transport and will not adjust to fit into awkward areas.

The Solution Using a LOBO System solution can dramatically improve logistics system operation by reducing scaffolding labour costs, which in turn improves service levels and increases operator productivity.

The LOBO System can be assembled quickly, easily and safely around, through or above conveyors and restricted access areas – by your own in-house maintenance crew.

This means out-sourced scaffolding labour costs can be reduced without compromising safety. Areas, previously considered difficult to get to can now be accessed with ease for maintenance and cleaning purposes. In addition, it is available 24/7 therefore puts you in control of what and when you schedule your maintenance tasks.

3. LOBO’s steel structure ensures many years of product life cycle and a system that will not shake or rattle. The system also includes a slider lifting beam kit and a Towerstore storage unit.

4. LOBO’s modular approach means components fully integrate and can be hand carried. Fully constructed systems can also be made mobile by the addition of wheels.

Cost Benefits Experience shows that deploying the LOBO system reduces the costs associated with hiring scaffolding and constructing bespoke access systems.

By reducing your reliance on outsourced scaffolding and engineering companies cost savings will be achieved – easily in a 12-month period.

With this quantifiable reduction in costs comes the added savings associated with reduced down-time and greater productivity from your maintenance department Available 24/7, quick to erect – and above all safe – it is immediately adjustable for your next job with no staff waiting time while new fixedframe structures are built.

Re-configurable, again and again, this product comes with no disposal costs and minimal replacement and on-going training costs.

Automation Update - 5

From medical devices to various industrial applications that save, improve, and enhance lives, Portescap offers miniature motor technologies to solve the motion needs of a spectrum of end markets.

6 - Automation Update

We serve our customers through breadth of innovative product technologies encompassing brushless DC, brush DC, can stack motors, disc magnet motors and stepper linear actuators to optimize application performance.

Discover more: www.portescap.com

Southern Springs and Pressings posts record sales and profits South of England based spring manufacturer, Southern Springs and Pressings Ltd, has achieved record turnover and profit for their last financial year.

The company has generated an increase in turnover of 12% in 2016/17. Pre-tax profits also increased by 20%.

Following a great start to the UK manufacturing sector as a whole, the success of SSP has seen orders increase throughout the last 12 months. In response to this, they’ve invested heavily in the business with the purchase of new equipment and machinery.

Their latest purchase was a new power press machine, the new 55 ton Chin Fong power press and ancillary equipment will produce various products at up to 120 part per minute and will support the increase in sales.

They have also invested in a bespoke IT system enabling them to enhance the production process across the business. The new IT system will ensure they can keep track of all their customer orders and stock levels with the information updated and displayed throughout the factory, Tim Page, Managing Director said “We’ve had a fantastic 12 months which has been the result of some hard work and team effort. On the back of this, we have invested in the business and look forward to another successful year”.

Visit www.southernspringsandpressings.co.uk to find out more.

Automation Update - 7

Sussex students powered

by TR Fastenings to design, build and race electric cars Uckfield firm TR Fastenings is playing its part in supporting the next generation of engineers by supplying parts to a team of Sussex students taking part in the Greenpower race series.

The scheme gives young people the opportunity to design, build and race an electric-powered racing car. The single-seater vehicle is being constructed by a team of 16-19 year-olds at the Brighton Hove & Sussex Sixth Form College (BHASVIC) as part of the scheme organised by the Greenpower Education Trust, a registered charity which promotes sustainable engineering to young people.

The BHASVIC students are being mentored

by Phil Edwards of Uckfield-based Weald Technology. Weald is an award-winning innovator in electric vehicle technology for commercial R&D projects, sustainable transport, and STEM education. The firm has a long-standing relationship with TR Fastenings, which provides components for its electricpowered motorcycles.

The first part of the project is a course, which introduces them to using computer-aided design (CAD) software. They will then hand-build the vehicle with materials and components donated by companies such as TR, which is supplying fastener parts for the car. The project - which runs out of school hours – also teaches students about sponsorship, marketing and teamwork as well as the engineering and design skills involved in building the car.

The BHASVIC car will participate in the most senior of Greenpower’s three competition categories, IET Formula 24+, for 16-25 yearolds. The key rule is that cars must be propelled by a 24-volt DC electric motor powered by two sealed 12-volt batteries provided by Greenpower.

For younger students, Greenpower also runs IET Formula 24 for 11-16 year-olds and IET Formula Goblin for 9-11 year-olds. For all three categories, regional events take place at racing circuits and proving grounds throughout the UK, with the series finals scheduled for Rockingham Motor Speedway, Northamptonshire, on October 7/8. The BHASVIC car will compete at Dunsfold Park in Cranleigh, Surrey, in September 2017. Teams put forward three drivers for each race, and the winner is determined by whoever covers the greatest distance in 1.5 hours.

8 - Automation Update

Geoff Budd, TR Europe Managing Director, comments: “Anything that encourages young people to learn about and participate in engineering and manufacturing is to be applauded. It’s vital that we give these students every opportunity to soak up these skills and that’s why we are thrilled to be a part of this scheme. I have been in this business for over 40 years now and I’m still learning every day, so it’s great to be able to help people at the very beginning of their journey.”

Phil Edwards of Weald Technology adds: “I’ve been a huge advocate of the Greenpower scheme for a number of years and it’s fantastic to be working with the BHASVIC students as they prepare for this year’s series. “ “The support of companies such as TR is invaluable to the students – not only are the parts vital to enhancing the performance of the cars, but a firm like TR is also a great example of a business which has been built on hard work, quality and innovation, values which inspire the students as they embark on this challenge.”

TR plays its part in the Greenpower race series promoting sustainable engineering to young people

Engineered Latching for Enhanced Usability In today’s highly industrialised and automated world, with increased focus on equipment security and operator safety , the user experience in terms of a human’s interaction with a product or appliance has gained tremendous importance.

W

hen Memmert, a leading manufacturer of industrial and laboratory thermal ovens, was searching for a reliable as well as ergonomically-friendly latching solution for their next generation appliance, the company worked with Southco, a global manufacturer of latches, hinges and fasteners, to develop a locking mechanism that has improved the ovens’ quality as well as efficiency.

Memmert’s primary focus for their new product was to enhance the end user experience within a laboratory environment. The latching and handle mechanism on the oven door had been identified as improvement areas.

The previous generation of oven appliances incorporated multipoint latching into the outer main door, sealing the door panel against leakage and contamination and helping to maintain constant temperatures.

For the new product the need arose to maintain the necessary level of compression whilst enhancing the aesthetic design and user experience.

“We were looking to improve the functionality and design of our handle and locking mechanism,” said Christoph Oster, Project Management R&D, Memmert. “We needed an innovative and easy to use system and a lock with consistent, reliable performance. The door needed a smooth push lock system to minimise vibration that could potentially effect the running process and goods housed inside.”

Memmert sought a latching solution that allowed the user to access the oven’s interior without having to use

their hands to open the door. The latching mechanism was still required to prevent the door from opening accidentally.

“The usability of the handling was a vital element; we needed to create a system that was easy to open and close by hand or knee and also gave flexibility in user height,” said Oster.

The new oven latch is based on Southco’s R5 Draw Latch – a heavy duty mechanism chosen for its high tensile load, concealed installation and proven functionality in industrial applications. The latch incorporates over centre locking functionality, ensuring vibration resistance and an integrated secondary latching feature, creating constant compression of the door seal. The latching system helps to improve and simplify the ergonomics of use by making it easier for the operator to open/close. The locking and unlocking of the door works smoothly and reliably over the product lifespan. The handle mechanism offers an ergonomic and safe handling for the user.

The Memmert oven latch, designed by Southco.

The intelligent and ergonomic design of the Southco latch makes the handle easier and safer to use for laboratory staff.

End users value Memmert’s new generation of appliances, with the door handle playing an important role in their perception. In sensitive medical laboratory applications, the handle provides safety for tests and allows for smooth operation. For industrial use, it is sturdy enough to ensure longevity for years of multiple repetitive stress tests.

“The new handle and locking has been a fantastic addition. The enhanced functionality and improved design has added value to our range of products by improving the quality and efficiency of the locking mechanism and handle,” said Oster.

The new latching system adds real value to the Memmert Oven, boasting a more ergonomic and more competitive product in the marketplace

Automation Update - 9

For real time environmental data collection from inside a pack!

By Jonathan Hirst, EMCO Packaging www.emcopackaging.com The status of foods, medicines, vegetables and many other products are critically dependent on the environmental conditions (temperature, pressure, relative humidity) and oxygen levels inside any pack in which they are stored. Between them, these conditions control the product’s shelf-life, freshness, crispness, viability and the scope of any bioactive decay.

EMCO Packaging has just developed and is currently introducing, a new smart-technology way of achieving this from the inside an actual pack! The new device measures the oxygen content, temperature, relative humidity and pressure inside the pack in real time.

So at last, it is possible to monitor and analyse the critical changes in all these properties as they are simultaneously interacting with and being changed by the contents.

Previously the process has usually been simulated in the laboratory with packs being torn open at each stage to measure the conditions inside. Now they can be continuously measured across the entire supply chain - from packing through to storage, transport and right on to display - even when this is in a frozen, chilled or normal cabinet.

The instrument combines advanced sensing with data logging and communications, all within a tiny unit. It can communicate wirelessly as well as having the ability to store up to 300,000 measurements in memory for later USB download.

By accurately monitoring the 10 - Automation Update

environmental conditions inside the pack, the system provides the data necessary to analyse the changes, trends and conditions that affect the contents – enabling users to optimise each stage of the process - from the packaging materials, through to storage, temperature, transport and display conditions. As a result, product freshness, quality gains and extended shelf-life can all be delivered direct to the consumer.

The device produces more accurate and realistic results throughout the supply chain than can be gained by traditional measurements – and it is far less destructive as well!

EMCO is in the prototyping stage of introducing an advanced NDIR carbon dioxide sensor into the instrument as well which will provide additional data.

This is desiged to be particularly useful to manufacturers, packers, suppliers and distribution companies that work with MAP (Modified Atmosphere Packaging) companies.

The data logger is just 65 mm x 50 mm x 37 mm and is manufactured to a particularly high and robust engineering standard. Oxygen and humidity are measured to a resolution of 0.05% and 0.04% respectively, temperature to a resolution of 0.01% and pressure to 16 bit resolution over a range of 10 – 1200 mbar.

Contact information email: info@emcouk.com web: www.emcopackaging.com

Protecting Your Plant Before

Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used whenever information or monitoring of shaft rotation, position, direction, speed, slip etc is required!

Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used for indication, control, interlocking, protection, sequencing, alarm initiations and many more functions!

Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used wherever materials are transported or processed By conveyors, elevators, screws, mixers, etc!

ROADSTONE

STONE

POWER STATIONS

AGGREGATE

…AND MANY MORE!

RELIABILITY Tel : +44 (0)151 356 2322 Website: www.rotechsystems.co.uk Fax: +44 (0)151 356 2437 Email: sales@rotechsystems.co.uk

Monitoring the world

One supply connection for robots Exchangeable unit supplies robots with pneumatics, fluids and electronics MULTILINE E and the exchangeable unit for supplying robots with power and media: The MULTILINE E is a unique modular system for individually configurable and robust multiple connectors and multi-media connectors.

The MULTILINE E sets new standards for convenience in switch cabinets, tools, machine elements and robots. The perfectly compatible modular design also allows flexible integration of different diameters, connection types and media in the connector. The advantage of the MULTILINE E is the simultaneous coupling of electrical signals and operating media under pressure, in a drip-free connection.

The perfectly compatible modular design also allows flexible integration of different diameters, connection types and media in the connector.

Modular design for easy repair The MULTILINE E exchangeable unit for robots consists of two multi-media connectors, two angle brackets for mounting the unit on the system, two tube bundles for mounting the protective tube and the protective tube itself. Depending on the individual configuration of the multiple media couplings, other components include pre-assembled electrical cables and tubes, in addition to the corresponding inserts. For simple applications Eisele also configures exchangeable units for supplying robots on the basis of the MULTILINE 1800 and MULTILINE 1811 series. The exchangeable unit is delivered as a complete assembly, resulting in clear advantages for the user: simplified warehousing due to the modular design and simplified ordering, since the entire application is provided by a single supplier. Individually configured modules ensure

fast and easy installation and defective connections can be replaced by exchanging the entire unit during non-productive time. An exchangeable unit that has been replaced can then be repaired separately to minimise downtimes.

The optimal industrial connector The MULTILINE INDUSTRIAL CONNECTOR from Eisele is also based on the concept of the MULTILINE E. It makes the diverse capabilities of the Eisele MULTILINE E and the Eisele MULTILINE ADAPTIVE available for connections in the widespread industrial connector format. MULTILINE adaptive inserts allow combination of exactly the connections required for a particular application. The MULTILINE industrial connector is designed for mounting completely without tools and for fast and easy adaptation to new operating conditions in case of modifications to the existing system.

12 - Automation Update

Monitran’s new 32 channel MTN/5032 condition monitoring system.

Versatile condition monitoring system introduced by Monitran The latest condition monitoring system from Monitran can monitor and log vibration on as many as 32 channels. Parameters that can be measured include velocity and envelope g, as well as temperature.

Known as the MTN/5032, the microcontroller-based system has an easy-to-navigate 7 inch colour touch screen that enables users to set alarm thresholds and delays either individually or across all channels. Data sampling periods, ranges and accuracy levels can also be easily set.

AC output data for each channel is accessible via door-mounted BNC connectors for easy analysis, while Modbus and remote PC monitoring are available as options. The stainless steel enclosure provides IP66 ingress protection.

The channels are configured to customer specifications and offer 12 bit sampling, with an input range of 25 mm/s for velocity and 10 g for envelope g. Temperature channels, which can be used to monitor bearings or gearbox oil for example, can monitor up to 120°C.

“The versatility of our MTN/5032 makes it ideal for monitoring a wide range of rotating machinery, including industrial, power, water, mining and marine applications,” said Andy Anthony, Monitran’s managing director.

Automation Update - 13

EL3751 multi-function terminal: High-end measurement technology in the standard I/O system Reliable and high-precision acquisition of measurement data offers tremendous potential to optimise machine efficiency and production quality. This can also be achieved for demanding measurement technology tasks with the integrated EL3751 solution from Beckhoff, which combines automation and measurement technology on one universal hardware and software platform. The EL3751 1-channel EtherCAT Terminal for analog measurement technology combines high measurement accuracy – ±0.01 % of the full scale value for most interfaces, at 25 °C (±5 °C) – with a high sampling rate of up to 10,000 samples per second and 24 bit resolution (incl. sign). Other important factors include long-term hardware stability through pre-aging, as well as extensive configuration options for the nominal measuring range of the input channel. The XFC technology (eXtreme Fast Control) functions are likewise available in the EL3751. Optionally, the measured data can be transmitted

14 - Automation Update

to higher-level automation devices with oversampling. The integrated distributed clocks ensure precisely synchronised sampling across the EtherCAT system.

The “Extended Range” feature enables effective measurement even beyond the nominal measuring range, with possible extension up to 107 percent. To suppress aliasing effects, the input channel features two configurable numeric software filters up to 39th order FIR / 6th order IIR. The filters can be preselected or freely defined, so that a band stop or a band pass can be implemented.

The universal and integrated measurement solution Each EL3751 has a unique serial number and is available with a factory calibration certificate on request. Since the input channel can be parameterised comprehensively, both electrically and on the Software side, the measurement terminal can be used universally: The integrated supply and the switchable auxiliary

resistors enable direct connection of: a resistor bridge (strain gauge) or a load cell, a fixed ohmic resistor, a PTC or a potentiometer.

Universal use of the EL3751 is supported in large part by its full integration within the standard control system.

This significantly reduces engineering effort and costs when integrating high-precision measurement technology, optimises production processes and opens the door to many new applications. Moreover, ex t r em el y h i g h - per fo r m an c e software tools are available in the TwinCAT 3 automation suite from Beckhoff, which is integrated in Visual Studio®.

The software platform includes valuable tools such as TwinCAT Analytics and Scope for advanced analysis of measurement data.

Additionally, integration with MATLAB®/Simulink® enables the optional use of corresponding simulation models in TwinCAT 3.

| EK11-14E |

Extremely accurate. Extremely fast.

Next-generation measurement technology with Beckhoff EtherCAT Terminals.

< 1 μs synchronisation 100 ppm 24 bits 10,000 samples/s

www.beckhoff.co.uk/EL3751 With the EL3751 EtherCAT Terminal, Beckhoff unveils the first product in its new generation of high-precision I/Os for measurement technology. These scalable terminals integrate high-end measurement technology directly into the standard I/O system. Superior precision and sampling rates ensure high-quality data acquisition: Multi-functional input: U, I, R, strain gauge, RTD (PT100/1000) High-precision timing: exact synchronisation < 1 μs High-precision values: measurement accuracy of better than 100 ppm at 23 °C Fast: 10,000 samples/s Proactive: integrated connection and functional diagnostics 24-bit ∆∑ ADC, integrated distributed clocks, 107 percent ExtendedRange Optional higher-order calibration by the user EtherCAT is ideal for numerous measurement applications

New RF Auto codes troublesome ‘liftthe-flap’ sleeves with ease

R

esponding to the coding and handling challenges of the latest ‘lift-theflap’ style luxury pack sleeve, Rotech will launch its new off-line RF Auto sleeve and carton friction feeder at PPMA 2017 (stand A37). This offline sleeve coding solution for overprinting essential information, such as batch numbers and use-by dates, accurately handles the latest cardboard watch sleeves which vary in thickness due to the new addition of an informational flap incorporated into the sleeve.

Without any human intervention, the system’s patented auto-gate feature automatically adjusts to accommodate the varying thickness of each flat pack to boost coding productivity and eliminate set-up time and sleeve waste, which could amount to £20k per annum alone.

The new lift-the-flap sleeve style is being used by premium brands looking to impart additional value-add product information for consumer benefit. The luxury packaging market is growing globally at a rate of 5% per annum which far exceeds that of general consumer goods packaging, explains Neil Farmer Associates: “Forecasts predict the market to be worth $17.6 billion by 2019, compared to 14.2 billion in 2014, which adds to the pressure for manufacturers to maximise the versatility of their coding operations. Rising demand for added value packaging and the introduction of new technology and innovations is driving this growth – Rotech has quickly responded with the launch of the RF Auto to facilitate this fast-paced market.”

The RF Auto’s new auto-gate function targets manufacturers who find that increasingly varied packaging styles can present a challenge for conventional coding systems. The RF Auto stack-to-stack feeder works using a non-contact thermal inkjet coder offering a complete offline overprinting solution. For the first time, the new auto-gate function 16 - Automation Update

eliminates the need to make manual adjustments to handle cartons of different thicknesses, minimising setup downtime in coding operations and eliminating waste packaging. With some manufacturers experiencing 10 product changeovers a day, this prevents wasting costly packaging sleeves or cartons which can cost up to 79p per sleeve comments Steve Ryan, Sales Director Rotech: “It’s quite possible that manufactures having to manually set-up and test a sleeve feeder could see waste amounting to £395 per week alone - the RF Auto is designed to eliminate this waste.”

Conventional stack-to-stack carton and sleeve feeders ensure that the packs feed through the printer correctly by manually setting a separation finger to allow one pack through at a time. That setting varies depending on the thickness of the carton and making adjustments can add several minutes to the set-up each time. In contrast, the RF Auto’s autogate function eliminates these delays.

In addition, simple controls and the use of quick-set hopper guides also help keep downtime to a minimum.

Rotech Machines Stand A37

The new lift-the-flap sleeve style is being used by premium brands looking to impart additional value-add product information for consumer benefit

Its small footprint allows the RF Auto to be moved easily between production lines. It offers high throughput speeds, with the high torque of its friction feed system retaining control over the cartons as they are automatically separated and dispensed.

Offline coding is an increasingly attractive option for companies in industries such as food and pharmaceuticals, especially since unusual pack designs and the need to maintain a high-end finish can prove challenging for online solutions on today’s fast-paced production lines.

To discover more about the RF Auto and Rotech’s other offline coding solutions, visit us on stand A37.

The latest ‘lift-the-flap’ style luxury pack sleeve with informational flap incorporated into the sleeve.

www.rotechmachines.com

Profile Technology

Conveyor Technology

Linear Motion

Factory Equipment

Flexible modular solutions from mk!

Compatible standard modules from mk simplify your production and maximise efficiency. Technology from mk provides the ideal solution for plant and special machinery engineering.

mk Profile Systems Limited a company of the mk Technology Group

Unit 2·Wolds Farm Business Park Kinoulton Lane·Kinoulton·Nottinghamshire, NG12 3EQ Phone +44 (0)1949 823751·Fax +44 (0)1949 81270 www.mkprofiles.co.uk·info@mkprofiles.co.uk

Protecting Your Plant Before

Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used whenever information or monitoring of shaft rotation, position, direction, speed, slip etc is required!

Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used for indication, control, interlocking, protection, sequencing, alarm initiations and many more functions!

Rotech Motion Sensor’s can be used wherever materials are transported or processed By conveyors, elevators, screws, mixers, etc!

ROADSTONE

STONE

POWER STATIONS

AGGREGATE

…AND MANY MORE!

RELIABILITY Tel : +44 (0)151 356 2322 Website: www.rotechsystems.co.uk Fax: +44 (0)151 356 2437 Email: sales@rotechsystems.co.uk

Monitoring the world