Sometimes very little is needed to solve even big problems. Such is the case with product handling devices, which, despite their small size, can make all the difference in a packaging line.

It is often thought that large, bulky and expensive machinery is needed to make a packaging line efficient or faster; product handling devices “dispel” this myth and, indeed, confirm the exact opposite.

I start with a premise: these are machines that in their small footprint encapsulate high technological know-how, the result of a detailed analysis of the company’s needs.

I think it is important to make this clarification since, in the packaging industry, one of the challenges is precisely to create value in small spaces through a high-tech approach.

In fact, I always repeat it and I will never tire of repeating it: available space is one of the worst enemies of product packaging; everywhere, and in Italy especially, there is a lack of square meters to dedicate to product packaging operations. Therefore, solving a problem or making a line more efficient by taking up little space is a great added value.

When to resort to a product handling device?

Product handling is one of the most common applications in packaging lines. In fact, the need to rotate products on all possible axes is common to many companies and can be easily met through these devices.

I reiterate easily because, given the size of the devices, they can usually be fitted inside the plant without too much difficulty.

As I said, these are very common devices, capable of solving multiple problems. Let us look at some typical situations.

1) It often happens that the configuration of the product exiting the upstream machine is different from the one required by the downstream machinery; in this case, a product handling device allows the product to be rotated, avoiding inefficiencies or continuous interruptions.

2) Another typical scenario occurs when labeling or marking is required on a different side of the product than the side by which it exits the packaging machine; therefore, product rotation is required prior to this process.

3) Imagine the advantage of being able to “squeeze” flowpacks the packs coming out of a vertical machine so that the pack height is within a uniform tight tolerance, which will allow the downstream case packing machine to produce a smaller box.
A few millimeters gained in all directions that translates into less packaging material, more cases per pallet, and thus, over time, more products per truck. An overall savings that over time will ensure greater sustainability across the board.

As you may have understood from this quick roundup of situations, there are many possibilities and consequently many features of the device to be inserted.

In fact, when I am confronted with a client about these devices I am wont to make it clear how critical device customization is; it is essential to start with a detailed analysis of:

• specific needs imposed by the line;
• weight of the packaged product;
• dimensions of the package;
• speed of the packaging line.

Last, but obviously the most important, are the axis and direction of rotation of the product. The best way we have found to avoid confusion is to use terminology inherited from boating, so we speak of ROLL to identify the rotation along the axis of motion, Yaw for those along the vertical axis, and finally BECK for the axis transverse to the motion (in English Rolla, Yaw, Pitch).

Only with all this information in hand can you put in a truly efficient product handling device that can make a difference on your packaging line.

At M.H., we have been designing and manufacturing these types of devices for thirty years, supporting companies that need to optimize and make their packaging lines more efficient by offering innovative and technologically advanced solutions.

Aware of the many needs in the industry, we offer companies our MH Solution Scan: an in-depth diagnosis to analyze and optimize your packaging line. This advanced technology examines current processes, identifies areas for improvement and suggests the most suitable solutions.

Aware of the many needs in the industry, we offer companies our MH Solution Scan: an in-depth diagnosis to analyze and optimize your packaging line. This advanced technology examines current processes, identifies areas for improvement and suggests the most appropriate solutions to increase efficiency and reduce costs. Find out how MH Solution Scan can transform your production process and enhance your operations today.