Sewtec Automation has designed and installed a new conveyor system at United Biscuits' McVitie's Carlisle factory for the fast and efficient case packing of flow-wrapped mini variety packs of biscuits.
The new system integrates into the existing packing line, which comprises seven flow wrappers, each wrapping a different biscuit into mini-flow wraps of three biscuits per pack. After flow wrapping, the packs are collated and hand-packed into outers, for a finished case of assorted biscuits.
A key requirement for the new conveyor system was to make the hand-packing operation more efficient and ergonomic for the operators. The resulting line was developed in consultation with the workers to best suit their needs. The new position of the hand packers on the far side of the conveyor has created more space for the packers and operators and enabled the system to function more efficiently.
The Sewtec system is able to pack around seven cases a minute with the flow wrappers operating at up to 110 packs per minute and has reduced manning levels by around 25%.
CONTACT: SEWTEC AUTOMATION
TEL: 01924 494047