A UK gourmet chip manufacturer is using high-speed packaging solutions from tna to double its capacity while simultaneously reducing waste.
Pipers Crisps, based in Lincolnshire, needed to add new packaging lines to its factory to deal with increased demand, as its existing equipment was only capable of achieving speeds of 80 bags per minute (bpm) for smaller bags.
To boost its bagging capabilities, the company invested in a pair of tna Robag FX 3ci vertical form, fill and seal machines. According to Richard Mottram, factory manager at Pipers Crisps, the new setup has decreased wastage from three per cent at 80bpm to one per cent at 140bpm.
“When we first started looking for a VFFS packaging solution to expand our existing fleet, tna was the first name that came to mind,” said Mottram. “We were initially attracted to the high speed capability and unparalleled product quality.
“During the project, we were impressed with tna’s forward-thinking attitude and level of support – from specification and project scoping, to trial and implementation.”
Simon Hill, regional sales manager at tna, said the Robag FX 3ci’s rotary jaw design and advanced sealing technology helps it improve performance at high speeds, and that the supplier worked closely with Pipers to make sure the solution was the right fit.
“Installing two new packaging lines into an existing fleet can be challenging. Taking the time to extensively trial how the tna equipment would integrate alongside existing systems was therefore crucial,” said Hill.
“Once we fully understood Pipers Crisps’ needs, we were able to tailor our systems to fit specific requirements, providing them with flexible, high performance solutions that would meet their long-term production needs.”
