Thinking about adding a new product to your packaging line? Or what about adding a new line to your factory? The “what” is the biggest question we ask our clients before creating new factory automation, because we build to precision. Understanding all the possible products someone may run, or want to run, on their integrated packaging line is critical. Here are a few steps to think through all the possible items you may need to run on your line.
Existing Products
First off, let’s consider your current product assortment. Are the sizes/products uniform, or do they vary? If the latter, what is the difference in fill size/weight? Use the list below as a guide:
– Number of SKUs
– Container type, size, and weight
– Fill size/weight
– Closure type
– Carton size (if needed)
— Palletizing requirements (if needed)
Automation Options
Now that we know what your existing products are, we can start to look at factory automation. There are many options for each part of the packaging process:
– Filling (gravity, pressure, volumetric)
– Capping/sealing (screw on, snap on, heat seal)
– Labeling (wrap around, front and back, top labeling)
– Cartoning (manual, semi-automatic, fully automatic)
– Palletizing (low level, high level)
The Future
Your factory automation should be able to accommodate your existing products as well as any new products you plan to add in the future. Here are some things to think about when it comes to your future products:
– Changes in filling/capping (speed, size, weight)
– New container types (bottles, cans, jars)
– New closure types
– Different carton sizes
– Increased palletizing requirements
— More SKUs
— Higher throughput
— More shifts
To accommodate future needs, we need to take into account changes in filling and capping as well as increased throughput and the number of shifts required. We also need to consider new container types, closures and carton sizes.
When it comes to factory automation, the “what” is the biggest question. By taking the time to think through all your current and future products, you can be sure you’re getting the right packaging line for your business.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more about factory automation, please contact us. We’d be happy to help!