Packaging according to Beckhoff

Fast, flexible and efficient: how and why XTS and PC-based control by Beckhoff optimize packaging machines.

When a packaging line does not fully support the increasing demand for product variants and the economical production of smaller and smaller batches, innovative solutions must be implemented. These are the only solutions that can support multi-format production without machine downtime, as well as quickly handle format changes and optimize production costs.

The intelligent conveyor system XTS from Beckhoff is the answer.

Benefits for a complex reality

In the world of packaging, the production process can be particularly articulated and include various work steps: from filling to dosing, via screwing caps and applying labels, with the possibility of tracking the batch or any expiry dates, before moving the product to a cartoner to pack and ship the product.

A key advantage of the XTS is the individual control of its movers.

In fact, each product is transported through the processing stations by a single mover, and depending on the processing time required, the mover is able to stop and speed up, moving the product to the next step in the process.

This eliminates the need to run differently timed processing steps on separate machines or provide complex interfaces and product accumulators.

XTS integrates everything into a single system and, thanks to this possibility as well as the unique and compact design, the system footprint is reduced by up to 30%, also allowing for space optimization.The XTS also provides an additional benefit: it allows the machine cycle to be decoupled from the duration of individual processing steps, for example by installing the most time-consuming processing stations simply several times along the transport route. This optimizes material flow and improves productivity.

Future-proof production

With the help of XTS and PC-based control, the user is able to develop a flexible and future-proof production line, meeting high quality requirements and new consumer expectations. Operators can check the entire process themselves, including all quality controls and sampling, and perform format changes quickly and easily without interrupting production. This benefits not only the production lines but all other areas of the company.