Automating our canning pack off machinery

We have just invested in automating the pack off section on our largest canning line. This canning line was installed in early 2021 and after operating for around a year, the decision was made to enhance the lines operations further. After navigating various supply chain challenges, we are delighted the first section of the upgrade has been installed after being shipped in from France and is now operating.

Upgrading the machinery enables us to operate the canning line at an increased speed, as the process of packing cans into 4, 6 or 10 packs is now completed by Westrock machinery. The cans previously exited the xray and weight check before being manually packed as 4, 6 or 10 packs and then placed into outer cartons / slabs. Now, the cans exit the xray and weight check before entering our brand new Westrock cluster wrap machine that wraps the cans into the desired 4, 6 or 10 pack format. Then, our crew package into the outer carton and stack onto a pallet ready for transport.

Consequentially, we no longer utilise plastic quad packs on this canning line, opting for a more recyclable alternative in cardboard wraps. Additionally, the cardboard wraps utilised on this line contain less cardboard than existing wraps that were applied manually by our canning crews.

We have more machine enhancements planned with the arrival of a carton wrap machine due to arrive in early December. This machinery will wrap the 4, 6 or 10pk cans into outer cartons of 16, 24 or 30 cans. Stay tuned for updates on this machinery!

Thank you to the team of trades who worked on this upgrade:

• Westrock

• LGE Electrical

• Fibre King

• Idyll’s maintenance team: Wally, Andrew & Brant

Check out the timelapse of the machinery being installed - 3 business days from delivery to completely operational!

Interested in our contract canning capabilities, contact us today!