FDBusiness.com

Tray sealer specialist Packaging Automation which celebrates its 50^th year in 2013 has launched a vacuum skin pack option forits eclipse range of tray sealers at MEATUP. This brand new revolutionary pack format is gaining popularity in the meat, poultry and fish sectors.

The skin system of sealing offers high visibility vacuum packs on a pre-formed tray which is aimed at improving shelf life, better product quality and packaging reduction with the use of a shallow tray.

At MEATUP, PA will be demonstrating the reliability, versatility and cost effectiveness of the flexible eclipse range of machines.

The unique, fully electrical eclipse SL4 tray sealer can reduce the user’s running costs by 90%, unlike the pneumatic/electric hybrids already on the market;itrequires zero air for full operation. The machine has many capabilities including the option for skin packing, gas flushing and vacuum gas flushing.  Ultra lightweight and quick release tooling is offered as standard on all eclipse machinery.

PA is acutely aware of the need for manufacturers to minimise the impact their operations have on the environment, so the eclipse range also offers the inside cut option and the capability to run sealing film as thin as 17 micron which reduces film usage by an impressive 20 percent when compared to existing tray sealers.

Sealing packs at an impressive rate of up to 75 packs per minute the SL4 includes an inbuilt tool loading system which, when combined with the lightest tools in the market, allows manual tool changes and accurate docking of electrical and gas connectors, removing the need for a mobile loading jig.

The top tool comprises single impression removable cartridges that enable continued operation during repairs and maintenance. Spare cartridges can be supplied to allow full capacity operation at all times and a complete tool changeover can be achieved within two minutes.

Simplified operation is demonstrated by a Minimal Operator Interface that eliminates operator errors and improves efficiency by pre-setting all machine parameters, including tool recipe settings and pack handling, at the touch of a button.

Other key features of the eclipse range include tooling heater mats with an integrated thermocouple. Manufactured from a waterproof material, these mats heat up 30% faster and have a significantly longer life than materials previously used. To save on critical downtime, a Pack Crush Protection system prevents smashed packs when incoming trays are not orientated properly and quick release cutting blades allow for replacement in seconds.

The eclipse range also offers modified atmosphere with either gas flushing or vacuum gassing for longer shelf life, energy saving features, such as automatically switching to stand-by when not in use and, for the fresh produce sector, clip-on lids can be replaced by pre-punched film allowing pack contents to breathe.

Ideal for the meat and poultry market, tray sealed packs offer consumers and retailers what they want – convenience, protection and freshness – and PA’s new eclipse range gives the manufacturers what they need – less waste, reduced pack weight and increased productivity.

PA has been manufacturing packaging machines for 50 years, and this invaluable experience in research and development is reflected in the eclipse range, which not only carries the PA seal for reliability but combines efficiency with the environmental benefits vital to food manufacturers.

Background Information:

Packaging Automation Ltd was established in 1963 and is a leading manufacturer of tray sealing machinery offering full turn key tray sealing lines to food manufacturers worldwide.

Operating fromits based in Knutsford,Cheshirethe business employs 95 people and produces a wide range of equipment from simple manual units and semi-automatic tray sealers through to high speed in-line fully automated systems. The company also manufactures pot filling and sealing machines.

Its facilities, products and high level of professionalism has made Packaging Automation one of the market leaders in the supply of tray sealing solutions for a wide range of markets including food, medical, personal-care and DIY.