At interpack, Syntegon is presenting a flexible line concept for packaging sensitive baked goods – from product distribution to case packaging. The seamlessly integrated packaging system is equipped with numerous technological innovations. “Manufacturers looking for an efficient solution in the medium output segment will find from Syntegon fully automated lines from a single source – including gentle handling, sustainable primary packaging, and high format flexibility for different products," says Stefan Schulze, product manager, Syntegon.

Product distribution: gentle handling is a priority

The Syntegon DCG (Distribution Continous Gentle) distribution station is making its debut at interpack. The new station continuously discharges 400 sliced cakes onto the downstream packaging leg at 18 cycles per minute. Using the pull nose method, the DCG discharge belt lowers and deposits the cakes gently and in a controlled manner onto the downstream cross belt. Thanks to its gentle handling, the distribution station is ideally suited for delicate baked goods or sticky bar products. “When we were developing the Syntegon DCG, we placed particular emphasis on flexibility and hygiene. Depending on production requirements and layout options, different modules can be easily combined. In addition, the distribution station’s open design makes it easily accessible. Sloped surfaces help catch product residue and keep the production environment clean,” explains Schulze.

Primary packaging: reliable, flexible, and versatile

Once the sliced cakes have been discharged onto the packaging leg, the FIT inline module continuously feeds them to the flow wrapping machine while preventing products from accumulating along the way. Linear motors ensure gentle handling of sensitive products. Each mover can be controlled and only accelerates when the product has been safely captured. This means that the individual sliced cakes do not come into contact with each other, which in turn reduces mechanical stress. In addition to gentle handling, the FIT impresses with its high flexibility: Operators can switch between different formats at the push of a button via the HMI.

The sliced cakes are then packed by the robust and reliable Pack 403 flow wrapping machine. Thanks to fast and tool-free format changes, it is suitable for a wide range of products. At interpack, Pack 403 will pack up to 400 cakes per minute in gusseted flow wraps. The recyclable mono-material film will be heat-sealed.

Product handling: additional function completes Syntegon robotics platform

The subsequent robotic pick-and-place platform RPP ensures a high degree of flexibility. The modular platform has been tried and tested in different systems since 2022 and will now be shown as part of the exhibited line with a new grouping and loading function. The primarily packaged cakes are inspected and then continuously placed into the robot's collation chain. Defective packs are discharged instantly. A robot arm picks the individually packaged sliced cakes at 50 cycles per minute. The products are separated at the gripper into groups of two by four. The robot deposits the grouped products in the integrated bucket chain of the end load cartoner. The speed of the robot and the cartoner's infeed chain is fully synchronized. With the showcased application, manufacturers benefit from the flexibility and scalability of Syntegon's robotics platform. In addition to fast and seamless system integration, all RPP versions also meet IP65 protection class and high hygiene standards. This means that it can even cater to applications with demanding cleaning requirements.

Cartoners and case packers: compact and flexible equipment – easy integration, fast commissioning

As part of the line, Syntegon will also present the latest version of the compact Kliklok BEC end load cartoner. At interpack, the RPP and BEC are integrated into one unit with the machines connected via Ethernet for easy operation. The end load cartoner packs the pre-grouped sliced cakes and sideloads them at a speed of 100 cartons per minute. Show visitors can experience the machine's new technical features: In addition to a new Human Machine Interface (HMI) 4.0 for connection to the digital service portfolio, it also features improved controls. Control technology from Beckhoff in discreet CPU boxes enables cabling without control cabinets – resulting in a compact layout as well as easy system integration. Moreover, Syntegon will showcase the BEC with an optimized drive system: With the switch to servo technology, various drive components can be optimally synchronized so that the processes during loading are completely reproducible. In addition, the BEC uses the proven rotary carton infeed system. More precisely, when the cartons are drawn up and the products are placed inside, there is less waste and downtime.

Then, the new Elematic 1001 TL Topload case packer loads the packed products into RSC cases – two rows, three cartons each in six layers. The compact case packer is specially designed for ergonomic operation and can be easily integrated into any packaging line. Its wide format range of up to 600 mm in length, 400 mm in width, and 350 mm in height allow it to be used for a variety of products. In addition, the Elematic 1001 TL processes pre-glued RSC and HSC blanks of different corrugated board thicknesses. The dotted application of hot-melt glue used to seal the cartons saves around 10 percent of energy and up to 40 percent of glue without sacrificing stability.

Service Agreements: Support at fixed prices

Synexio also contributes to the optimal monitoring of the equipment: The new cloud-based software solution collects, evaluates, and visualizes machine and production data. Syntegon will offer Synexio in three consecutive packages. The basic package monitor visualizes various KPIs and thereby improves production transparency. “Now that our customers are successfully implementing the basic package, we are ready to upgrade to the next level,” says Elisa Hein, product manager expert services, Syntegon. At interpack, Syntegon will present the second Synexio package, Uptime. “With this, we are delving deeper into the details: Besides machine availability, we can now also identify the specific potential for improvement, for example, by visualizing the most frequent reasons for stops,” explains Hein.

Synexio is also part of the Service Agreements that Syntegon offers for the machines of the bakery packaging lines. They provide the foundation for effective equipment and maintenance management at fixed prices. Seven dedicated levels help customers from the pharmaceutical and food industries to reduce production risks, gain predictability on service costs and simplify complex processes – enabling them to focus on their core business. With each level, the scope of services covered increases – from basic service, including inspection and remote service, to guaranteed production performance of the machines. From Level four, customers can enjoy peace of mind about the total cost of ownership for the lifetime of their equipment. Besides preventive maintenance and operator training, services at this level include all spare parts at a fixed cost.

Learn more about Syntegon technologies and services and meet the experts from May 4 to 10 at interpack 2023 in Duesseldorf. Visit us at booth A31 in hall 6.

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