Bosch Packaging Technology will launch the new Kliklok Midrange Endload Cartoner (MEC) at PACK EXPO International 2018, which will be held in Chicago later this year. The new MEC features a future-proof sanitary design, tool-less changeover and easy operator access. It packs up to 170 cartons per minute. Furthermore, the MEC can handle a wide range of carton sizes, for products as small as 0.75- inch thick single-serve pizza to a 4-inch-tall cake.
“The Kliklok MEC was designed to meet our customers’ needs for future-proof sanitary construction and ease of use and maintenance, with fast, tool-less changeovers and remarkable access,” said Janet Darnley, product manager at Bosch Packaging Technology in Decatur, U.S. “Moreover, we surveyed our customers on what they wanted and we delivered. Lastly, one additional feature we added as standard is open flap detection; it prevents opened or partially opened cartons from exiting the machine – a quality requirement in our customers’ minds.”
Easy access with a sanitary design
Thanks to its open-channel stainless steel frame and angled surfaces, the MEC provides no place for product or debris to accumulate. Moreover, the machine is IP65 washdown rated, which is easier to clean. The electrical cabinets are mounted overhead for safety and assist unobstructed operator access. The all-new design features full-length doors to allow walk-in access for maintenance and changeovers. Consequently, changeovers on the Kliklok MEC are tool-less, easily repeatable and can be completed by one operator in 10-12 minutes. In addition, the new Bosch HMI 4.0 touchscreen guides operators through the process step by step.
Designed for a wide range of carton sizes
The Kliklok MEC features the patented rotary carton feeder. It erects cartons in the direction of product flow with a 30% greater carton-open time. This allows the use of carton board with a higher recycling content, delivering end-users tangible savings in material costs. The straight-pick motion reduces wear on suction cups and short, rigid bars minimize deflection. Furthermore, the MEC can package a wide variety of foods at speeds up to 170 cartons per minute (9” pitch).
Additionally, Kliklok endload cartoners are widely used in the frozen foods, refrigerated/prepared foods, bakery, snack and confectionery industries. They erect, load and close standard sleeve cartons, open-end five-crease sleeves, octagonal gusseted and open-corner cartons, gable-top and flip-top cartons, and other special shapes.
Bosch will be at South Hall, Stand S-3514 at PACK EXPO International taking place in Chicago from 14 to 17 October 2018.
