Packaging solutions company Ecolean has simplified the design of its filling machine in order to help customers double their capacity.
The upgrade enables customers to produce more with less, according to Ecolean, which specialises in lightweight packaging solutions for ambient and chilled distribution of liquid food.
The EL2+ is an upgraded filling machine for chilled distribution portion-sized packages.
It claims the machiine offers a clean, modern design that doubles capacity – all in the same footprint.
Christian Olsson, director of filling line operations, says the EL2+ will increase the competitive edge of Ecolean’s packaging system in the chilled segment with "a further improved ratio between speed, flexibility and hygiene, while being easy to operate".
The EL2+ features five fillers and a completely redesigned servo system that uses motors instead of pneumatic cylinders so as to double capacity by reducing cycle times nearly 40 per cent – from 2.4 seconds to 1.5 seconds.
Portion-sized packages are now produced up to 12 000 packages per hour.
“We optimized the design of the EL2+ to operate faster and with even more accuracy,” Olsson said.
“The EL2+ now uses the latest Omron control system that features a virtual master servo axis to enable optimisation of machine performance.
The technology was previously only used on our ambient filling machines, but the proven control system design is now available for the chilled segment with the EL2+.”
The infeed is also improved with a mechanical cam system and servo motors that control the opening of the packages as well as package grippers, all by one single cam movement.
This increases reliability, durability and requires less overall machine maintenance.
In addition, the EL2+ increases product safety and quality with a fully-automated cleaning system of the filling zone that ensures the same level of hygiene at the start of every production cycle. A steam system can be added to the valve cluster system made with aseptic membrane valves, which enables sterilisation of the entire filling system before each production.
Other options for the EL2+ include a straw applicator for several different straw types, for easy on-the-go consumption. The EL2+ will be available in the third quarter 2017.
Ecolean has also announced it will soon set up operations in Sydney. See the full story in our digital issue.
