There's no need to halt production in order to refill with packaging material or strips since both are replaced automatically. Automation also ensures that splices between packaging material reels and strip applications are of consistent, repeatable quality.
The flow of sterile air and the peroxide concentration needed to maintain aseptic conditions is fully controlled in a closed loop, and designed to auto-correct if deviations occur. Packaging material is sterilised both inside and out in a peroxide bath and a UV lamp completes the sterilisation process.
A unique chain-driven jaw system means that the machine's roll-fed packaging material is formed into packages in continuous motion, making this the fastest carton package filling in the world. An induction-based power transfer means there is no need for connected parts, which greatly reduces wear and tear.
The integrated cleaning unit cleans and disinfects the equipment at pre-set time intervals. As it is integrated, it has several advantages over a Central CIP: fewer delays; a shorter cleaning cycle; better controlled cleaning and a lower consumption of chemicals
Several factors contribute to the easy operation of this filling machine: the Tetra Pak Operator Panel with its intuitive touch screen interface; large windows through which operators can observe production at first hand, and ground level access to essential working parts.
The PLMS centre automatically collects production data from the automation platform. To this, the operator can add his own observations. Improvements in production efficiency can then be made on the basis of the two.
As the filling machine is an integrated part of the line it communicates with all the other line equipment. Sterilisation, filling and sealing processes are continuously controlled, increasing the output of 'on-target' packages. This feature also enables selectable capacity for compatibility with existing processing or downstream equipment.
Not only does this give you investment protection but it also means that you can have a new package on the shelves 12 weeks earlier compared to ordering a new line, with 85% reduced installation time and with an 80% lower investment.
The unit consists of a control cabinet, a heating element to sterilize air (or an inert gas) and a nozzle which injects the sterile air (or inert gas) to the product to create froth. When the froth settles down, it leaves a residual headspace which enables the content to be shaken and mixed. Using this method, products can be filled by weight so the choice of volumes is wider
The PullTab Unit punches a hole in the packaging material then applies an Inner PE-Strip and an outer Aluminium Tab (which is later used for opening the package). The opening is hermetically sealed before the packaging material proceeds to forming and filling.