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Automated matrix waste removal systems allow on-the-fly changes to the colors, coatings, layout and other print specifications without stopping the press to manage roll unwinding and matrix waste collection. Designed for compatibility with the latest short-run digital finishing equipment, they capture waste and dust at the press from labels, shrink sleeves, foils, flexible packaging and other materials, and then cut the waste into confetti and collect it in a compactor or bulk bag for recycling or disposal. Startup waste is reduced, job setup moves faster, and production speed and efficiency are improved while downtime lost for manual matrix waste handling is eliminated.

R-Palletize configurable robotic palletizing station is designed to provide a flexible robotic palletizing solution with an easy-to-use interface for changing material handling needs. The configurable palletizing station allows low-volume, high-mix manufacturers to use a single robotic cell for palletizing a variety of product patterns. It is available in four hardware configurations, including an M710iC/50H robot to handle cases up to 40 pounds, a control system and optional end-of-arm-tooling (EOAT) to suit the application. It also offers changeover time in as little as five minutes from the user interface.

The RS013N offers a 13 kg payload capacity, wide working range, small footprint and IP67-classfied design. Its design includes a new arm structure, drive system and lighter main unit, which enables high speeds and a large working area. Its 1,460 mm reach allows for installation flexibility and use in a wider variety of applications. Its internal Ethernet wiring enables easy connection to a vision system or other peripheral devices, and its floor, ceiling and wall mount options provide installation flexibility for any layout. It is dust-tight and offers a full-body IP67 rating, fully covered motors and waterproof electrical connections for reduced interference zones around the robot base, which allows the user to maximize the floor space and working area.

The company’s family of 4-axis SCARA robots now includes the SR-3iA, SR-6iA, SR-12iA and new SR-20iA models with 3 kg, 6 kg, 12 kg and 2 0kg payload capacities and a 400-1,100 mm reach, respectively. Their space-saving design minimizes interference with peripheral devices. The SR-3iA and SR-6iA have an ultra-compact footprint and slim profile. The SR-12iA and SR-20iA have internal cable routing to eliminate interference. There are six models available with highest motion performance and continuous fast operation at all payloads. A generous vertical stroke makes it possible to perform assembly, packaging and various handling operations. Web-based iRProgrammer user interface for intuitive and easy robot setup and programming on a PC or Tablet (Teach Pendant is optional).

The Dymond D monoblock option for the x-ray inspection solution eliminates the need for active water cooling, which is reported to ease installation and maintenance. The high sensitivity of its powerful image processors, combined with intelligent image processing, means it is able to detect even those foreign objects that are positioned vertically or lay hidden at the edge or at the bottom of the container. For maintenance communication, statistical process control and optimization of automated production processes, all side shooters of the Dymond series are available with Ethernet, OPC-UA, Modbus and SPC@Enterprise connection. With horizontal communication, these systems represent a first step toward Industry 4.0—the side shooters communicate with other systems along the production line to coordinate regular, automated and timely calibration.

DSI 800 SE is a waterjet portioning system that is designed to deliver mist capture and 40% lower energy consumption. Made to meet the needs of protein processors in Europe and the Middle East, the system’s proprietary design removes the mist created by the waterjets to achieve shelf-life performance targets for retail and food service products. The machine can portion poultry, red meat, pork and plant-based applications as well. The machine’s servo pump is available in 4,000 and 6,000 bar maximum pressure configurations with single, dual or triple heads.

The company’s ribbon blenders for multi-phase mixing now come with an optional pressure feed vessel, which enables 100% discharge of the liquid component through a spray bar and into the blending zone, ensuring even mixing and consistent batches. In lieu of manually pouring liquids through an open blender cover or safety grating, using a pressure feed vessel and spray bar facilitates liquid addition while the blender is closed, minimizing dusting and safety issues. The spray bar typically includes four or more spray nozzles so that liquids are uniformly distributed along the entire length of the blender. Designed for compressed air supply up to 20 psig or higher, a characteristic of the pressure feed vessel is the absence of residual product in the piping. After the blending cycle, the pressure feed vessel can also assist with CIP/washdown. Available in various sizes.

Double chamber and floor model machines have a stainless steel construction, state-of-the-art technology, vacuum pumps and reinforced chambers. They are designed to be easy to clean and built to last with simple, fast operation with user-friendly touch pads. Innovative sensor controls provide features that facilitate production and allow for the very best appearance of finished packages. They all include a red meat program, 10 program storage, soft aeration, pump condition program and gate system check. Options include gas flush, ACS (20-program storage), printer labeling, liquid control, cut-off seal and high lid (only on the Polar 2-85). Tabletop units are also available. All machines are designed and constructed to adhere to the strict hygienic requirements of the food industry.

MIXO modular pneumatic connection system uses a self-extinguishing thermoplastic insert and metal contacts. The system not only allows more frequent mating cycles for compressed air distribution systems but also reportedly offers better mechanical resistance, increased airflow for transmitting dry and compressed air in pneumatic systems. These metal pneumatic contacts are made to permanently withstand the constant pressure of 10 bar. Contacts can be mated up to 10,000 cycles when installed with HNM series enclosures and frames for modular units, and up to 500 cycles when installed with MIXO frames and standard enclosures. The contacts are available in straight and angled versions for different sizes of plastic tubing, 3, 4 and 6 mm for both inner and outer diameter.

REX is an online regulatory-compliance documentation search portal for food and supplement labeling regulations, guidance, policy records and other compliance information. From a single search page, users can access documentation from the three major regulatory sources: FDA guidance documents, code of federal regulations Title 21 and USDA FSIS documents. Users can search for relevant documents using full or partial words, and filter those search results by source, date range, type (draft guidance, petitions, etc.) or category (allergens, labeling, etc.). The program keeps track of frequent searches and recently accessed documents. Users can bookmark their favorite citations, make notes about page locations and create folder hierarchies for easy, fast access.