M.H. – Material Handling

Luca Fontana

MH sistemi a serpentina

Production agility: How serpentine buffer systems maintain the flow of your products

Serpentine buffer systems are among the most traditional methodologies utilized for managing the accumulation of cylindrical products, distinguished by their ability to facilitate an agile and uninterrupted production flow of vials, cans and bottles.

These systems, comprised of a choreography of conveyor belts arranged side by side and oriented in opposite directions, maximize available space and ensure a smooth transport of products.

Precise management of the conveyor speeds allows for maintaining an appropriate interval between moving items, preventing unwanted accumulations and ensuring a balanced work pace.

These systems are designed to ensure that, in the event of slowdowns, products start to accumulate on the last conveyor belt until a control photocell detects the critical point, triggering a stop. This prevents the risk of congestion and damage, preserving the fluidity of production with a controlled and manageable pause.

Once downstream operations are restored, the conveyor belts restart with renewed energy, accelerating movement to quickly clear any accumulated buildup and swiftly reestablish the usual pace of the line. Thanks to this strategy, production can resume its rhythm with the assurance of a system that minimizes downtime and protects every item in the production chain.

Beyond Savings: discover the multiple benefits of serpentine buffer systems

The benefits of spiral accumulation systems are numerous and have a direct impact on the packaging line and operational costs. These systems are notable for their disarming simplicity and innate ability to maximize efficiency without excessively burdening the budget.

> Operational costs optimization

The structural simplicity of serpentine buffer systems translates into a significant economic advantage. Their installation requires a moderate initial investment and, thanks to straightforward maintenance, operational costs remain low over time. Additionally, their durability and reliability ensure a rapid return on investment, making them a cost-effective solution in the long term.

> Smart management of interruptions

In the event of unexpected shutdowns, serpentine buffer systems demonstrate their strength: their ability to agilely manage these moments reduces the risk of prolonged and costly stoppages. There is no need for drastic measures such as completely halting the line; instead, the situation can be resolved with minimal impact on overall productivity.

> Operational Agility

One of the most valued features is the ability of serpentine buffer systems to “empty” upstream machines. This allows the machines to keep operating even when part of the line is inactive, preventing delays from accumulating and turning into additional costs for the company. Production can thus continue more smoothly, handling interruptions with great flexibility.

> Impact on production continuity

The implementation of serpentine buffer systems ensures superior production continuity. These solutions, while simple, support a consistently operational assembly line, maintaining high quality standards for the finished product.

Now that you have explored the strategic advantages of serpentine buffer systems, you may be wondering how to effectively implement them in your production environment. Choosing and optimizing an accumulation system requires a thorough and personalized analysis of your operations, a task that goes beyond simply selecting a technological solution.

At MH, we offer not only our extensive range of serpentine buffer systems but also exclusive access to the “MH Solution Scan.” Our advanced diagnostic tool evaluates your specific production needs, identifying areas for improvement and recommending the most effective implementation for your packaging line.

To discover how the MH Solution Scan can transform your production process, click below.

Improve the efficiency of your packaging line with our MH Scan Solution
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MH ottimizzare spazi 2 bat vertical

Optimising Packaging Spaces (PART 2)

As I mentioned in a previous video, the need for space is widespread and extremely common. In the last post, I spoke about the benefits of spiral conveyors over traditional conveyors. Today, I’d like to focus on a few alternative solutions.

The bucket elevator belts, intermittent or continuous cleated belts and BAT-Vertical are relevant only in specific situations, and their maintenance costs are higher than those of spiral conveyors; that is why we recommend installing spiral conveyors whenever possible.

If you also have this type of need, do not hesitate to contact us; we are able to create any type of buffer system between packaging machines, paying particular attention to specific production needs, such as optimizing packaging space in a production facility.

Improve the efficiency of your packaging line with our MH Scan Solution
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ottimizzare spazi

Optimising Packaging Spaces (PART 1)

I’ve been involved in product conveyor systems for years now, and one of the most frequent recurring challenges is space. Companies often contact me because they need to “find” space so they can optimise their production.

It is critical to start by accurately surveying the site to understand the state of play and evaluating all necessary factors. Only after that can we evaluate where in the production line it is possible and beneficial to install a device that will help to optimise the space, as well as determine the type of device to use.

If you also have this type of need, do not hesitate to contact us; we are able to create any type of buffer system between packaging machines, paying particular attention to specific production needs, such as optimizing packaging space in a production facility.

Improve the efficiency of your packaging line with our MH Scan Solution
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mh saniflex

How to Optimize Your Current Packaging Lines?

On this blog, I often discuss packaging process optimization and the machinery that can be installed to achieve this goal. Designing a line from scratch, perhaps even with ample space available, is one thing; intervening on an existing line with its mechanisms already in motion is another.

Is it still possible to optimize the process in these cases? Good question! The answer is yes, but there are multiple paths to take.

Today, I want to outline some solutions to this issue because more and more companies already have a packaging line but need to make it more efficient, both in terms of performance and ergonomics.

Recently, we’ve encountered many with this problem… just think of the contacts we made during Cibus Tec at the end of 2023.

What do these production realities need?

  1. To gain space in facilities where square meters are limited and often fully utilized.
  2. To increase packaging speed.
  3. To free up floor space and develop the process vertically (returning to point 1).
  4. To make the phase from primary to secondary packaging more efficient.
  5. To adapt to changes related to seeking greater sustainability in processes.

What are the solutions in these cases?

T o create overpasses and free up floor space, some technologically advanced solutions can be introduced, such as:

  • Operator passages with gate-opening belts;
  • Retractable systems;
  • Spiral conveyors.

I want to focus on spiral conveyors because, in these cases, I consider them a valid solution.

It’s no coincidence that at Cibus Tec 2023, we presented the SVn-Bare lightweight spiral in collaboration with Ambaflex, specifically designed for agile aerial connections between primary and secondary packaging with significant economic advantage without compromising on quality and achievable peak speeds.

Another “powerful weapon” to improve the efficiency of packaging lines is represented by buffer systems; at MH, we can’t talk about them enough because they can really make a difference.

Buffer systems, for example, allow for:

  • Compensating for operational differences between two machines connected in series;
  • Regularizing the flow and preventing the processing line from constantly stopping;
  • Recovering productivity in the event of micro-stops on downstream machines.

However, integrating a buffer system at a later stage into an existing line is not straightforward; this operation requires significant attention and a series of specific evaluations regarding the performance outcomes to be achieved.

Adaptations to environmentally friendly packaging.

Another highly topical issue leading companies to plan a series of investments to modify their packaging lines is the need to adapt to the use of low-environmental-impact packaging.

When I talk about “low-environmental-impact packaging,” numerous possibilities open up that include solutions aimed at reducing packaging material or actually replacing plastic with paper, cardboard, or compostable material.

In these cases, the packaging process must keep up with progress. And keep in mind that companies will increasingly have to deal with changes imposed by a search for sustainability in processes.

To this end, at M.H., we are continuously investing in research and development of products capable of offering customers innovative and sustainable solutions in line with new market needs and regulatory requirements.

For example, the Sani-Flex hygienic design transport system, our standard for the transport of naked products, is specifically designed to meet stricter regulations; Saniflex takes into account the sanitization needs of some products to help reduce bacterial load during the process.

Another example is our partnership with Intralox for the construction or development of special products such as spiral elevators, ThermoDrive belts, and passive ARB conveyors.

These mentioned are just some of the solutions designed by M.H. to support companies in the process of modernizing their packaging lines.

If you also need to make your lines more functional and efficient, do not hesitate to contact us; we will guide you on a path to optimizing productivity specifically tailored to your needs.

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accumulo e temperatura MH

Product Buffers and Maintaining the Temperature, Is it Possible?

Heliflex is a particularly interesting LIFO buffer system, because it is able to resolve not only complicated buffer problems, but also address challenges regarding the product’s condition.

This conveyor system is unique in its class and it makes the system an incredibly cost-effective solution. More important still is that the system enables the cooling or heating of the goods, making it incredibly versatile in several ways.

If you also have this type of need, do not hesitate to contact us; we able to create any type of buffer system between packaging machines, paying particular attention to specific production needs, such as temperature maintenance.

Improve the efficiency of your packaging line with our MH Scan Solution
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Immagine per POST BLOG DIRECT RESPONSE (2)

From Cooling to Primary Packaging of “Stacked” Products

Crackers, rusks and biscuits are goods that require particular care and are always packaged in a stack, one on top of the other.
Because of their form and the method of primary packaging, they require special conveyor systems.

To meet this specific need, in the phase after cooling that usually takes place on wide conveyor belts, we at M.H. Material Handling have developed a dedicated line of conveyors with a modular plastic chain system, FDA certified for use in the food industry.

Compared to traditional belt systems, this solution offers significant benefits in terms of ease of use and maintenance.

Our decade of experience has taught us how much demand there is for systems that can be easily adapted to align with companies’ packaging process and to optimise their productivity.

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Immagine per POST BLOG DIRECT RESPONSE

BAT Buffer, a LIFO buffer system

BAT Buffer is a LIFO buffer system that we developed to address a series of recurring issues that have come up time and again in our two decades of industry experience.

Its uniqueness lies both in its speed, which can be regulated to ensure numerous benefits, as well as the possibility to continue or discontinue the buffer, making it possible to restore a product to the line at any time.

That makes BAT Buffer the ideal solution to absorb any inefficiencies caused by micro-stops, enabling a 10-20% recovery of productivity; by introducing the system upstream of the packaging machines, it is even possible to continue production without interruptions even if the machine stops.

Once the problem has been resolved, the product can be immediately restored to the packaging line without any further pauses.

With MH Buffer Systems, you will no longer have to worry about inefficiencies. Take advantage of our expertise and technology to become a reference for efficiency in your sector.

Improve the efficiency of your packaging line with our MH Scan Solution
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sfide del packaging

New packaging challenges: food safety and sustainability

A few months ago at Cibus Tec, the fair dedicated to food and beverage technology, some topics were discussed that are of interest to the various players in the sector at this historical moment.

These themes include:

  • Food Safety, characterized by increasingly stringent regulations;
  • Environmental Sustainability: a constant commitment for food companies striving to develop effective strategies to reduce their environmental impact.

Over the past two years, the convergence of these issues has driven companies to innovate and introduce new products, often requiring novel packaging solutions. Current results are promising in terms of material reduction, use of environmentally friendly materials and proper disposal methods.

As a result, those of us involved in packaging need to be aware of the new challenges facing the food sector and be able to respond to market needs in a timely manner.

New types of packaging and regulations on food contamination have made our field of research extremely challenging, as in many cases these two aspects are not always easy to reconcile. On the contrary, recent developments in the sector have highlighted how the relationship between food safety and environmental sustainability can also become contradictory.

Consider, for example, the different approaches of EU countries to this issue: Italy is a pioneer in recycling technologies, while the European Union, pushed by the Nordic countries, wants to focus more on reuse, without taking into account that reuse raises a number of important issues related to the contamination of materials.

In addition to these problems, there are also issues that we have always had to deal with, such as optimising factory floor space, making processes more efficient, improving the management of complex lines, and so on.

Well, the issue is complex and therefore the answers to these problems are different. At M.H., we have addressed these issues by presenting a series of innovations at Cibus Tec, the success of which confirms that we are on the right track.

Given the complexity of the issue, our contribution does not end here. In addition to developing new products, we have initiated a book that will focus on current challenges and will be published next year.

M.H.’s Answer: Saniflex

One of the solutions that we have developed to meet these new requirements and that we presented at Cibus Tec is Saniflex.

Saniflex is our standard for the transport of naked products, specially designed to meet the most stringent requirements, and has been created taking into account certain typical situations that occur when there is a need to reduce the bacterial load of the production and packaging line.

First of all, the product handling structure must be completely washable in all its parts; therefore, there must be no areas that are difficult to access for the cleaning system. In addition to an open and accessible structure, the operator carrying out the washing must be able to disassemble the components requiring more thorough sanitisation without the use of tools.

Secondly, the materials that make up the handling systems must “withstand” the frequent washes that are usually carried out with rather aggressive chemical products in order to guarantee the reduction of the bacterial load.

In fact, when a customer expresses this need to us, we pay particular attention to the materials and mechanical components of the product to be proposed: for this reason, many of our conveyor belts can also be manufactured in stainless steel.

All these characteristics influence the technological aspects of the production process: packaging and handling machines must not only fulfil their primary function, but also preserve the organoleptic characteristics of the products.

Taking all this into account, we have created Saniflex, which is characterised by:

  • the use of materials certified for direct contact with food;
  • cavity-free components to simplify the sanitising process;
  • all threads are covered,
  • all fasteners and spacers are fitted with gaskets.

In addition, the system is designed to be easily dismantled without the need for tools, in order to simplify and speed up washing and sanitising operations as much as possible.

Saniflex is just one of the solutions proposed by M.H. to meet the current needs of the food packaging sector, but thanks to its thirty years of experience it is able to create any type of connection between packaging machines, including all the product handling accessories to feed the machines properly.

This includes elevators or descent systems to free up floor space and optimise material flow, unitising and sorting systems to handle the most complex lines, and specific accumulation systems to maximise line efficiency.

If you want to optimise your packaging process and would like a free consultation

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BAT BufferBiscuits04

Buffer System: Which to Choose?

Let’s start with a premise: buffer systems can make a difference to the line’s efficiency.
The choice of model depends on various considerations (including financial ones) but there are three variables that must be kept in mind.

It is only by carefully considering these factors that we can move to a rapid consideration of the investment in the purchase of a buffer.

With MH Buffer Systems, you will no longer have to worry about inefficiencies. Take advantage of our expertise and technology to become a reference for efficiency in your sector.

Improve the efficiency of your packaging line with our MH Scan Solution
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PneumaticMerger15

Merge conveyors: how to make the right choice

When a company needs to install a merge conveyor, there are a range of variables that make the decision a difficult one.

The need for a merge conveyor in a packaging line is itself enough to indicate a process with a very high degree of complexity and automation throughout.

Choosing the right merge conveyor means taking into account:

  • how it protects the quality of the items;
  • making sure the machines downstream work as intended;
  • the efficiency of the entire packaging line.

It is clear therefore that mistakes could be critical.
The risk of ending up with an ineffective and obsolete packaging line is too high. That is why, whenever a client asks me which model is the best fit, I always start with a thorough analysis of their current operations, needs and expectations.

So, let’s start with a quick overview of these machines, explaining their purpose, their benefits and their limitations.

To start with, there are different types of merge conveyors, but the majority fall into one of two broad categories: mechanical (or buffer) merges and dynamic merges.

Buffer merges

This product is equipped with “gates” at the entry lanes that remain closed until the convergence area is free, at which point they let the items through one after the other.

This is a simple and cost-effective solution that works as long as two conditions are met:

  • the items must be able to withstand the pressure during the buffering phase;
  • the downstream machines must be able to receive the items in a convoy without being triggered to do so.

The first point is related to the integrity of the items, and essentially means that it is appropriate only for boxes, trays and products stacked in tight packaging.

The second point requires greater detail.
As they leave the merge, the items are touching each other, or very close to it, but the speed of the conveyor belt is the same as it would be with products that space out the items with one item’s worth of space between one and the next.
The average productivity of the line doesn’t change, but when the convoy arrives downstream, the machine’s productivity at that moment is doubled.

That is why the machine must be able to manage the flow, otherwise it is necessary to regulate the flow with one conveyor belt to increase the speed and another to decrease it after the merge; however, this solution is naturally bulkier, with two more motors and a more complicated logic controller.

Dynamic merges

When handling items that cannot be buffered for fear of overlap (generally pillow pouch or flowpack packaging) or damage caused by excessive pressure or because downstream machines need the items to arrive at a regular frequency and with a certain distance between one item and the next, then it becomes necessary to install a dynamic system.

A dynamic belt merge is a scalable system consisting of a series of modulating conveyor belts that increase or decrease the speed of the items as they come through, ensuring enough space to avoid a situation where two items reach the convergence point at the same time.

With these devices, the products are always handled one at a time, thereby avoiding having groups of items together and ensuring regular spacing. As the production pace increases, the number of modulators must also increase.

M.H. is an Italian brand with thirty years of experience with handling movement and logistics within production facilities in every sector of industry, with a range of solutions for buffer systems.

When it comes to dynamic merge conveyors, MH’s fastest system isthe HP dynamic system that can reach manufacturing of up to 600 ppm for 150mm flowpacks. Depending on the weight and packaging of the items, it is possible to use up to five phases of conveyors with brushless DC motor and vacuum suction to manage rapid acceleration.

Our wealth of experience means that M.H. is also able to support companies in optimising and streamlining their packaging lines with our innovative and technologically advanced solutions.

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Quando la produttività non può fermarsi l’efficienza del Bat Buffer

When Productivity Can’t Stop: Discover the Efficiency of the BAT Buffer

In the packaging industry, where every interruption can result in productivity loss, accumulation systems become strategic components to maintain performance and output. One ideal solution is the BAT Buffer by M.H. Material Handling, which we explore below.

The Heart That Keeps Your Line Alive

The BAT Buffer operates using a LIFO (Last In, First Out) logic and is designed to manage micro-stoppages typical in packaging lines. In the event of a downstream stop, the system automatically diverts incoming products to the accumulation buffer, keeping upstream machines running.

The BAT Buffer features a spiral structure that alternates straight and curved sections. This design maximizes available space, offering up to 150 meters of accumulation capacity with a single motor. The straight sections range from 2.5 to 6 meters, while the curves have an average radius of 200 mm, allowing adaptation to complex layouts.

Precision Control, Down to the Millimeter

During loading, products are guided into the buffer with a consistent pitch, regulated via inverter, preventing overlaps or damage—crucial for delicate or pressure-sensitive packaged goods.

Once normal operations resume, the BAT Buffer reverses direction and gradually releases the products back into the production flow. This can be done via an orthogonal transfer unit (to maintain product orientation) or a dynamic combiner for high-speed lines.

The average emptying time, from a full configuration, ranges from 15 to 25 minutes depending on installed capacity and downstream speed.

Recover What You Thought Was Lost

One of the BAT Buffer’s standout features is its ability to recover production lost to micro-stoppages. If downstream machines have an extra 10-20% capacity, the system can completely eliminate these losses by the end of a shift.

Its mechanical structure also enables quick switching between loading and unloading phases without needing full accumulation, helping to regularize the production flow. This operational flexibility makes it ideal for lines subject to frequent format changes or sudden production peaks.

Engineered to Fit, Wherever Needed

The BAT Buffer is ideal in sectors where output sequencing is not critical:

  • Bakery and confectionery products
  • Coffee and vacuum-packed goods
  • Other long shelf-life items

The structure is available in anodized aluminum for standard applications or AISI 304 stainless steel for environments requiring higher hygiene standards, such as cleanrooms. It supports occasional washing without compromising performance.

Its pressure-free design and modular components make it suitable for integration into existing plants, facilitating revamping operations.

See It Live

For those interested in discovering the BAT Buffer’s full potential, M.H. Material Handling will be exhibiting at IPACK-IMA 2025 in Milan from May 27 to 30, Pavilion 7, Booth B21.

For the first time in Italy, the compact infeed/outfeed system of the BAT Buffer—already praised at FachPack 2024—will be presented. Visitors will also get a sneak peek at an exclusive feature designed for those who recognize technical evolution at first glance.

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Le nuove sfide del confezionamento tra automazione e sostenibilità

The new Challenges of Packaging between Automation and Sustainability

In the packaging industry, sustainability is no longer an option, but achieving it inevitably involves additional costs.

Automation can provide a concrete solution: by improving the efficiency of production lines, it helps offset the costs required for sustainability, becoming a strategically.

This, of course, requires taking into account three key variables that determine the success of a project.

Integrating automation systems is not always straightforward: structural constraints and limited space often come into play, requiring creative and innovative solutions.

True success comes from finding the right balance between investment, productivity, and space optimization.

This is why at MH we support our clients with MH Scan Solution: our design approach that starts from the very beginning, considers all variables at play, and guides automation toward the best possible outcome.

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Catena modulare o a tappeto La guida pratica per scegliere la spirale giusta

Modular Chain or Tabletop? A Practical Guide to Choosing the Right Spiral

When it comes to optimizing efficiency in modern production layouts, one solution makes a real difference: the spiral conveyor.
Compact, versatile, and tireless, the spiral is one of the most effective technologies for utilizing vertical space, streamlining flows, and ensuring operational continuity—even in the most complex plants.

But be careful: not all spirals are the same.

To get the most out of your line, choosing the right spiral is essential—and the details make all the difference.

Which spiral is better? It depends on your needs:

  • Tabletop chain spiral → ideal for high-speed, compact layouts with packaged products
  • Modular chain spiral → perfect in environments requiring sanitization, frequent washdowns, and the handling of unpackaged products

Transported materials, hygiene requirements, cleaning frequency, available space: every plant is unique.

In this post, we guide you step-by-step through the key technical and practical differences, share a real case study, and help you identify the perfect spiral for your packaging line.

spirale Ambaflex con catena tabletop La guida pratica per scegliere la spirale giusta
Tabletop Chain Spiral Ambaflex

Tabletop Chain Spirals: Maximum Efficiency, Minimal Footprint

Tabletop chain spirals are designed for durability and consistent performance, even at high speeds. Equipped with roller bearings that increase load capacity and strength, they’re ideal for:

  • Packaged products with minimal sanitation requirements
  • High-speed applications requiring continuous flow
  • Compact layouts with space constraints
  • Product flow from primary packaging to palletizing

If you’re looking for maximum efficiency in a compact layout, this is the spiral for you.

Our collaboration with Ambaflex has proven the reliability of this technology—delivering top performance and optimized design even in space-critical settings.

However, be aware: this is not the right choice for environments that demand high hygiene standards.

spirale Intralox con catena modulare La guida pratica per scegliere la spirale giusta
Modular Chain Spirals Intralox

Modular Chain Spirals: Sanitization and Flexibility

In more sensitive environments, where cleaning is a priority, modular chain spirals provide a key advantage.

Made from food-grade certified materials, they ensure:

  • Enhanced hygiene and cleanability
  • Design that minimizes product and water retention
  • Compatibility with unpackaged products
  • Seamless integration with ovens, freezers, or coolers

This is the ideal choice for clean rooms, post-process zones, or areas with frequent washdowns.

The Most Advanced Solutions?

Our partner Intralox offers multiple advanced options, including:

  • OverDrive – Ideal for mixed environments with semi-packaged products and freezer exits
  • SideDrive – Offers greater layout flexibility and high washdown capability
  • DirectDrive – Optimized for extreme environments, including sub-zero temperatures

Thanks to our partnership with Intralox, we’re licensed to build OverDrive and SideDrive spiral systems for our applications.

The Right Choice Comes from Real Needs

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” spiral—only the one that best fits your plant.

If you handle packaged products and need speed, compactness, and reliability, the Ambaflex tabletop spiral is a great solution.

If your environment requires frequent washdowns or delicate product handling, the Intralox modular chain spirals offer top-notch safety and hygiene performance.

A Real Case: When Hygiene Is the Priority

Let’s get practical.

One of our clients needed to install a spiral conveyor in a clean room with frequent washdowns—even though the food products never made direct contact with the conveyor.
Here, the priority was minimizing water stagnation and ensuring rapid, effective cleaning.

The solution?

A modular chain spiral, built for hygienic environments and low maintenance. A system that delivered safety, reliability, and long-term performance.

Need Help Choosing the Right Spiral for Your Line?

Let us help.

With our MH Scan Solution, we offer a free technical check-up of your production line. We’ll analyze your plant layout, identify critical needs, and propose the most effective, safe, and goal-aligned spiral system.

Request your free check-up today and discover how to truly optimize your space and product flow.

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Pezzi di ricambio e manutenzione dei nastri trasportatori

Spare parts and conveyor belt maintenance: what you need to know

Finding the right time to perform maintenance on your conveyor belts can make all the difference for your business. With the right method and proper knowledge, maintenance can become a real advantage—without unnecessary downtime.

If you want to know whether it’s time to replace your conveyor belt and learn more about our scheduled maintenance programs, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Thanks to the MH Scan Solution service, we analyze your packaging line to identify areas for improvement and offer you the most effective solutions to boost productivity and make your line truly competitive.

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Strategie vincenti per l’automazione delle linee spazio logistica e scalabilità

Winning Strategies for Line Automation: Space, Logistics, and Scalability

Packaging line automation represents a major opportunity to boost production efficiency, especially in emerging markets. However, to achieve real benefits, every phase of the process must be carefully planned.

In many facilities, automation stops at primary packaging, with downstream processes still relying heavily on manual labor. While this might seem like the easiest and quickest option, it limits productivity and scalability.

The implementation of new automated systems should not be improvised but must respond to a clear goal: reducing format variability and improving production flow. The temptation to rapidly replace manual operations with advanced machinery must be balanced with a critical consideration: the flexibility of human operators is difficult to replicate without substantial investment.

Planning Automation: Space, Ergonomics, and Logistic Connections

One of the most critical aspects of integrating new machines is managing the available space. It’s not just about the machine’s physical footprint, but also the area needed for operation, maintenance, and safe operator passage. From the start, it is essential to consider ergonomic implications: a line that hinders staff movement or access to equipment not only reduces efficiency but also increases the risk of accidents.

Furthermore, automation cannot be separated from warehouse logistics. Increasing productivity inevitably means more inbound and outbound material flow. Without an automated system for product handling and transport, bottlenecks may arise that cancel out the benefits of automation. Elevators, shuttles, and warehouse robotics are becoming indispensable to ensure operational continuity.

A Step-by-Step Approach: Why Phased Automation Works

Many companies, driven by the need to stay competitive, try to implement automation all at once. While this approach may seem faster and more effective, it carries several critical issues. A radical overhaul may cause weeks or months of production stoppage, significantly affecting operational costs and order fulfillment.

Instead, a gradual implementation allows each phase to be validated before moving forward. This approach minimizes errors, helps operators gradually adapt to new technologies, and ensures that each integration is optimized for the existing workflow.

The goal of well-structured automation is not only to boost productivity but also to ensure a smooth transition without compromising product quality or line organization.

M.H. Material Handling: Your Partner for Smart Automation

Transitioning to automation requires experience, expertise, and strategic vision. M.H. Material Handling supports companies in designing and implementing customized automation solutions that balance innovation, efficiency, and operational sustainability.

Through our MH Solution Scan service, we provide a detailed analysis of your packaging line to identify improvement areas and recommend the best solutions. If you’re considering automation to increase productivity and streamline flow management, contact us for a personalized consultation and discover how we can help you transform your production line into a high-efficiency, competitive system.

Improve the efficiency of your packaging line with our MH Scan Solution
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Quanto costano sostenibilità e sicurezza alimentare

How much do sustainability and food safety cost?

If you want a system that meets the highest hygiene standards and it is also sustainable, you should know that the initial investment will be significant. But there’s good news for you…

The higher upfront cost of a safe and sustainable packaging line for food products will more than pay off — not only through long-term cost savings, but also thanks to the strong reputational advantage you’ll be able to associate with your brand.

If you’re ready to move towards a more hygienic and sustainable design, don’t hesitate to contact us: request our MH Scan Solution, an in-depth diagnosis to analyze and optimize your packaging line.

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