Interpack

The packaging industry is embracing sustainability and automation

The recent edition of the Interpack trade fair clearly highlighted the two key drivers in today’s packaging industry: the undeniable shift towards sustainable materials and a continuing drive towards far-reaching automation. Manufacturers of packaging machinery and materials presented numerous innovations that respond to these trends, ranging from machines capable of processing paper to fully integrated production lines.

The rise of paper and cardboard in packaging machinery

The transition from plastic to paper and cardboard is one of the most visible developments. However, this requires significant adaptations to machinery originally designed for flexible plastics. Various machine manufacturers showcased their solutions to this challenge.

JASA, for example, demonstrated the Paper-Vento® and Bag-2-Paper technologies, which enable the high-speed production of paper packaging on vertical packaging machines. The technical know-how required to process paper – an inherently stiffer material – smoothly is crucial here.

Ulma Packaging also placed a strong emphasis on paper processing. The company presented the Tigre flowpacker and the Sienna vertical form, fill and seal machine, both optimised for use with paper. In addition, they showcased the Leaf and Universal systems for processing paper trays, illustrating the versatility of their portfolio for sustainable materials.

Flexibility and efficiency in tray sealing and weighing

In the tray sealer segment, material flexibility has become a key factor. Proseal, part of JBT, demonstrated how their machines can switch effortlessly between various materials, such as cardboard trays, rPET and PP. The emphasis is on high capacity and fast changeover times, enabling producers to respond flexibly to changing market demands and material availability.

This flexibility is supported by precision in the preceding stages of the process. Weighing specialists such as Ishida and Multipond showcased their latest generation of multihead weighers. Ishida is increasingly positioning itself as a provider of total solutions by integrating weighing systems with inspection technology (such as X-ray) and its own tray sealers. Multipond continues to stand out thanks to the high accuracy and hygienic design of its weighers, which is essential in the food industry.

Innovation in shelf life and end-of-line automation

A notable technological innovation came from Hefestus with their SLB (Shelf Life Booster) technology. This system makes it possible to extend the shelf life of products without using gas flushing (MAP). This technique can significantly reduce the complexity and costs of the packaging process and offers new opportunities for optimising the supply chain.

At the end of the production line, automation remains the norm. Lantech presented solutions for the final stages of the packaging process, featuring advanced case erecting machines and sealliners. These systems are indispensable for creating an efficient and reliable logistics flow, particularly at a time of persistent labour shortages.

The role of the full-service supplier

Positioned between the machine manufacturers and material innovations are total solution providers such as Van der Windt Verpakking, part of Paardekooper. They demonstrated a wide range of packaging concepts and materials, thereby bridging the gap between the technical capabilities of the machines and the manufacturer’s specific packaging requirements. Their presence emphasises the importance of an integrated approach in which machine, material and product are perfectly aligned.

The developments at Interpack show that the packaging sector is in a state of constant flux. Investment in technology that supports both sustainability and efficiency is no longer a choice, but a prerequisite for future success.

Source: AGF.nl – https://www.agf.nl/article/9805436/duurzame-verpakkingen-en-slimme-oplossingen-voor-lijnbesturing/