
End of line packaging automation
End of line packaging automation has been a cornerstone of food production for a long time, but never more so than it is right now. Even before Covid-19 and its dramatic impact on workplace social distance, boosting productivity and, consequently, profitability through process automation was a major priority for many organizations.
The elimination of human error and human touch with food from the End of line packaging automation processing process has long been recognize as a significant contributor to food safety. With Brexit’s implications for labor shortages and high employee turnover, there is an added incentive to automate workforce levels. Given these difficulties, it should come as no surprise that research into innovative approaches for allowing machines to absorb pressure has gained traction.
End-of-line packaging has long been a time-consuming and labor-intensive operation. At the other end of the line, though, it was not uncommon to see rows of workers inspecting goods and putting them into cartons and boxes for shipment. Fortunately, this is changing, with end-of-line packaging becoming one of the most automated sectors in the manufacturing industry.

Review of a product
Checking for foreign bodies is one of the final operations before the line is close (metal, bone, glass, etc.). X-ray equipment, on the other hand, are becoming increasingly popular for detecting anomalies and transporting damaged goods to reject bins. In addition to X-raying, more systems are being developed that combine X-ray, checkweighing, and label verification. In comparison to several machines, this results in a smaller footprint, which is useful in tight quarters. Reduced risk and trademark protection are two further benefits. In order to provide a fail-safe system, these computers can combine sophisticated databases, date-coders, and other fail-safe systems.
Check weighing contributes to profitability, efficiency, security, and regulatory compliance, with the precision of automated systems potentially determining profitability. Using modular grading systems, you may verify that meat products are accurately weighed as they move down a single weigh-conveyor. In some cases, this can be combine with a depositing system, such as in the case of automating the salting and curing of bacon.
Verification of the label
In order to ensure compliance with regulations, many commodities, such as ready-meals, rely on correct label inspection and pack verification. High-speed vision inspection systems with precision of up to 200ppm are already available on the market. These systems check to see that the top and bottom labels are correct, as well as that the date code characters are authentic and legible, before proceeding. There is also support for 2D and 1D bar codes, as well as for best-before dates and batch numbers in addition to the standard features. While protecting against product recalls, which continue to be a nightmare for food processors, the manufacturing line may continue to run uninterrupted.
On the production line, databases can provide End of line packaging automation real-time data gathering software, which can be use to calculate overall equipment efficiency (OEE) in order to create rapid monitoring and performance control. Databases can also be use to store all quality assurance (QA) and production reports for audit and traceability.
Cases and crates are use to transport goods
Following examination, the majority of the products must be group together and placed into cases. Products can be stack, collated, loaded, converged, erected, and sealed using automated methods. Because of the broad variety of packs and cases available, it is necessary to be adaptable. Systems are also available that can support a range of packs in either a stand-up or a lay-flat configuration. It is important to evaluate how fast and easily alternative pack sizes and formats may be change when purchasing a machine because minimising downtime is vital in order to avoid a bottleneck.
Cases can be inspect using the same label verification techniques. As are use to inspect packs, with the labels being check for proper positioning and information accuracy. This allows for the creation of a highly efficient, integrated packaging solution. That can be adjust to the unique requirements of a production line.
The new standard of living
The post-Covid ‘new normal’ is an issue that is hotly disputed. Despite the fact that much is still unknown, automation will play. A far larger role in the food processing industry. Determine the most appropriate equipment for the work will become increasingly important. As firms develop techniques for achieving social distance and allow computers to perform jobs. That were previously performed by human beings. Even though advancements have made in end-of-line operations, more automation is require going forward.
This, like many other areas of food production, is a broad field with many different subfields. It has never been more critical to collaborate with equipment vendors. Who are knowledgeable in packing solutions, including after-sales support. It is also necessary to consider training for those who will be utilising the equipment. In part due to the fact that automated packing systems are customize to the individual requirements of a given line. They increase production while decreasing labour expenses.
Interfold Technology has long been a leader in the development Zebra partner in Pakistan of innovative automated end-of-line systems. This division of the corporation provides complete, semi-automated, and fully automated packing systems. As well as training, maintenance, and support to guarantee that the systems work to their maximum potential.
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