AmbaFlex: Automation through accumulation

AmbaFlex Automation through accumulation
Supplier News

Exciting food packaging formats come with their own unique packaging challenges. In order to solve this customer's need for increased packaging line speeds, extra attention was given to product handling and accumulation.

In this project the end-user was looking to improve production rates on its frozen dinner meals packaging line by automating various parts of the process.

Automation was already in use to add dinner meal ingredients to trays, which were sealed and snap frozen in a tunnel freezer. But they still had to box the trays and case pack them through manual labor. The issues were that handing frozen food under extreme time pressure is a repetitive stress for staff and the process had inherent speed limitations.

To solve this the new solution needed to accommodate multiple product types in various unusual sizes and configurations. Packaged meals were to be transported from the spiral freezer, oriented and placed into a single file. After this, accumulation was required before the meals reached an end-load cartoner so as to manage any delays in the cartoning process.

The AmbaFlex AccuVeyor AVh was the perfect solution. For this current project, it provides anywhere between 3–12 minutes of accumulation between the orientating and singulation system and the End Load Cartoner, depending on the product. The AVh adds seamless dynamic accumulation without touching the products, making it perfect for odd and challenging shapes. In addition, it can respond to any situation on the fly, ensuring optimal efficiency.

AmbaFlex AccuVeyor AVh-Series
AccuVeyor AVh-Series © AmbaFlex

Once the small packs have been placed into a case, conveyors receive these cases and transport them to an AmbaFlex SpiralVeyor, which then takes them to the palletiser.

With two AmbaFlex spiral solutions this customer optimized their line's potential while decreasing the pressure on valuable floor space. A true win-win situation for all involved.

This article was originally published by AmbaFlex.

Latest Packaging News

Walkers Chocolates introduces recyclable paper wrapper
Sustainability

Walkers Chocolates introduces recyclable paper wrapper

UPM Specialty Papers has partnered with EvoPak to support Walkers Chocolates' transition from a...
Labelexpo Europe 2025 opens next week: all you need to know
Events

Labelexpo Europe 2025 opens next week: all you need to know

For the industry following its 45-year history, this edition will mark an important milestone,...
Strongbow launches accessible drinks packaging using QR codes
Technology

Strongbow launches accessible drinks packaging using QR codes

Strongbow, the cider brand owned by HEINEKEN UK, has introduced NaviLens technology to its...
Plastics Recycling Awards Europe 2026 now open for entries
Events

Plastics Recycling Awards Europe 2026 now open for entries

Entries are now officially open for the Plastics Recycling Awards Europe 2026. The competition...
AmbaFlex: Safe access in your facility made easy!
Supplier News

AmbaFlex: Safe access in your facility made easy!

At AmbaFlex, we understand that providing safe access across packaging lines is both essential and...