The Challange
A new customer approached us looking for a solution to fill 50 pound bags with cocoa powder. The customer was seeking a valve bagging and palletizing solution that would meet both Food Grade and HazLoc requirements, while also offering simplicity and cost-efficiency.
The Solution
Following our initial meeting, we conducted comprehensive bagging trials to evaluate the packaging characteristics of the cocoa powder and their interaction with the bags during the filling process. These trials provided valuable insights into selecting the optimal valve bag packer that would ensure high throughput while adhering to Food Grade and HazLoc requirements.
Based on our findings, we proposed a tailored packaging line featuring the ELEMENTRA EVT valve bag packer and the AMICUS® PAL – Basic Robotic Cell. The packing machine includes a single spout and a non-enclosed bag applicator, designed for automated bag placement and easy access for cleaning and maintenance. The applicator is supported by a user-friendly bag cart that can be conveniently reloaded and positioned within the system. To meet the customer’s Food Grade and HazLoc requirements all product-contact components are constructed from stainless steel or food-grade rubber, while also incorporating explosion-proof design elements. Lastly, blow-out and deaeration nozzles were equipped for additional ease of cleaning and product changeover.
Additionally, we supplied a custom hopper to feed the cocoa powder into the ELEMENTRA valve bag packer. A screw-type sample taker was installed for quality control purposes. Downstream, the system includes a checkweigher and metal detector equipped with Food Grade conveyor belts. At the end of the line is our AMICUS® PAL – Basic Robotic Cell. This palletizing cell features a FANUC arm with our Gripper End-of-Arm-Tool, infeed conveyance with bag pick-up area, reject station, and enhanced safety fencing and light curtains. Designed for simplicity and effectiveness, the operator places an empty pallet on the floor, and the robotic cell automatically stacks the filled bags onto it with precision.
This comprehensive solution ensures reliable, hygienic, and safe packaging of cocoa powder, meeting the highest industry standards.