Automation Spotlight
This month we are spotlighting a Kraft Wrapping and Packaging system that Automatic Handling built to support the operations of a pulp & paper mill in the Midwest.
The Challenge
When a Midwestern pulp & paper manufacturer needed a solution that would automate the wrapping of kraft paper rolls they turned to Automatic Handling. Before jumping in with a system suggestion, AHI’s engineers went to work collaborating with the client to evaluate their needs, listen to their challenges, and clearly define their goals.
The Solution
By collaborating with the client, AHI’s team was able to combine multiple delivery streams of rolls into a centralized, automated kraft wrapping and packaging system. The resulting system provided a needed alternative to film packaging to support its ever-expanding customer base.
How it works
This system begins with a full-width ramp, sortation stops, and full sets of turning rollers to force the roll set to break up into individual rolls, allowing operators to tape the tails safely. The discharged roll set moves to the full width set cushion and conveyor where the rolls separate with end-against-end conveyor transfers.
Rolls are then sent to the grouping station and mated together with other rolls to form a package. The system automatically measures the package width, diameter, and weight. Rolls are accumulated before the draft wrapper and enter the indexing beam for the wrapping process. An industrial robot selects the appropriate “inner headers” (large cardboard end caps) and inserts them on either side of the roll.
The wrapper station applies a predetermined width and the amount of kraft from the back stands onto the roll, fully encapsulating the bilge in kraft paper. Crimping arms are then engaged to pinch the sides of the overhanging kraft package to hold in the inner headers. The system then sends the package to the header press station, where another industrial robot selects the appropriate “outer headers” and places them onto heated platens that pivot in and compress the package, creating a sealed kraft package.
An automatic label applicator installed before or after this process applies the stick-back labels to the outside of the kraft package. Once the system entirely labels and packages the rolls, they arrange in conformity with data from the mill and are upended individually or collectively for stacking. The system sends rolls to accumulation conveyors where they are gathered for clamp trucks to pick up and transport to the rail cars or designated warehouse positions.
The Results
AHI’s Kraft wrapping systems automate the process of wrapping manufactured kraft paper rolls for storage and transport. In addition to replacing the client’s former systems, the new kraft wrapping system emphasizes improved safety and energy efficiency.
Ready to Automate?
Built from module components, so our wrapping systems are suitable for new and existing facilities. Automatic Handling has the experience to help customers optimize their labeling quality by labeling via a simple mechanical device, robotic end of arm tooling, or inline radial wrapping labels. Our team is ready to help automate and streamline your production operations. Contact us if we can help.