Getting ready for Pack Expo

Here's a sneak peek at the products that will be featured at next month's show at Chicago's McCormick Place.

By -- Modern Materials Handling, 10/1/2000

Pack Expo

November 5-9
McCormick Place East, North & South Buildings
Chicago, Ill.

Show Hours:
Sunday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Monday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Tuesday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Wednesday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Thursday, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Heavy-duty lift tables

Offering a variety of capacities, platform sizes and options, Vision lifts provide a practical lifting solution for manufacturing, processing, and distribution applications. The electro-hydraulic scissor lift tables are available in 2,500 and 3,500 lb. capacities with a vertical travel of 36 in. By lifting and accurately positioning the load, the lifts eliminate unproductive lifting and stretching that lead to worker fatigue, injuries, and product damage. Features include compliance with ANSI and European standards for lift tables, a 24 volt operator control system, and entrapped scissor rollers for increased stability.
Bishamon
800-358-8833

Photoelectric sensor

The World-Beam universally-mountable photoelectric sensor measures only 35 mm (1.38 in.) high by 15 mm (0.59 in.) wide by 31 mm (1.22 in.) deep. Opposed mode sensing is a powerful 20 m (67 ft.), retroflective mode range is 6 m (19.8 ft.), and convergent models have a 16 mm (.63 in.) or 43 mm (1.7 in.) focus. Sensing modes also include regular and wide-angle diffuse (proximity mode) with ranges up to 450 mm (18 in.)
Banner Engineering Corp.
888-373-6767

Palletize at high speeds

The HL8000 high-speed palletizer is designed for high-speed beverage lines and other operations that must palletize 100 plus cases/minute. It features a split-roll turning section controlled by four servo drives and an adjustable flow divider that will turn and arrange products. Additional features are a heavy-duty frame, modular layer accumulation sections, a servo-driven hoist, and easy maintenance.
Columbia Machine
800-628-4065 

Roll cart

Designed around a heavy-duty base, the RC-11 roll cart has 5 in. phenolic casters bolted to a welded plate. The chrome plated cart is appropriate for picking operations, especially in narrow aisles. The shelves are optional and can be placed at an angle or flat every 4 in. The cart, which is 48 in. by 24 in. by 70 in., disassembles for easy storage or returnable trips.
Carico Systems
800-466-6738

Pallet wrap machine

A heavy-duty pallet wrap machine with a low-profile, semi-automatic turntable wraps up to 30 loads/hour at a maximum dimension of 72 in. by 72 in. by 86 in. high. The EL720 features a variable speed film wrap carriage, ANSI 50 chain drive, full-film tension program, upright easy loading film supply mandrel, and soft start turntable torque control.
Halton Packaging Systems
905-847-9141

Print and apply system

Designed for continuous-duty operation, the PA/500 LT is a heavy-duty, high-speed print and apply system built of anodized aluminum and steel construction. The unit prints and applies direct thermal/ thermal transfer labels to cartons, packages, totes, pallets, and other items. A hand-held interface provides access to all system menus. Print speeds are up to 12 in./sec. A maximum print width of 6.6 in. is offered, while media width ranges from 2.0 to 7.2 in.
Diagraph Corp
800-722-1125

Quiet conveyor rollers

Driveroll GL is a gearless, brushless, 24 VDC motor-powered roller that reduces gear noise on conveyor systems and also meets OSHA's safe workplace standards. Typical applications for handling packages up to 150 lb include high-speed sortation, fast paced order-picking, and computer-controlled mail and parcel sortation systems.
Interroll Corp.
800-362-9616

Wrap loads automatically

The automatic operation of the HPA-66 stretch wrapping machine allows high production and more efficient use of forklift personnel. Once a load is delivered to the machine via forklift, the driver starts the wrap cycle with a hanging pendant, and then is free to attend to other duties. The machine automatically wraps the load, adjusting for varying load heights, then seals the film tail to the load at the end of the cycle. Features include highest quality structural steel, an open design for easy access to minimize production line downtimes, and non-proprietary parts that make it quick and easy to maintain equipment.
Orion Packaging Systems, Inc.
901-888-4170

Print labels 4 in. wide

Designed for industrial applications, the I series printers are fast, reliable, versatile, and economical. The series includes three printers that print labels up to 4 in. wide. The I-4206 prints at 203 dot/in. at 6 in./sec, the I-4212 prints at 203 dot/in. at 12 in./sec, and the I-4308 prints 300 dot/in. at 8 in./sec.
Fernqvist Labeling Solutions
800-426-8215

Stretch wrapping system

Designed to allow forklift drivers more time behind the wheel, the Q-300XT system with simple automation eliminates the need for drivers to get off the truck to attach or cut film. The system automatically attaches and cuts the film, allowing the driver to position the load on the turntable, start the machine with a lanyard switch, and drive away. Removing the load from the turntable is just as simple. Since the load is already cut, the driver can drive up, pick up, and move on. Also, a new intelli-sensor sensing device eliminates problems associated with difficult-to-detect loads.
Lantech, Inc.
800-866-0322

Distribution pallet

A lightweight, durable, impact-resistant pallet is a superior solution for many distribution applications, including retail, grocery, and food service. The nestable pallet is 40 in. by 48 in.
Orbis
888-307-2185

Bar code printer

The PA1000t printer/applicator with an Apollo 300 dot/in. thermal transfer bar code label printer features a customized tamp pad that can be modified to specific label sizes from 2 in. by 1 in. to 41/2 in. by 8 in. Variable stroke length with adjustable pressure sensor adds additional flexibility. The system is capable of applying up to 60 labels/min printed at 203 or 300 dot/in. The programmable controller interface provides maximum flexibility by allowing control of the system to be accomplished by almost any device, from a simple micro switch or optical sensor to a sophisticated intelligent controller.
Tharo Systems, Inc.
330-273-4408

Case weighing and labeling system

The 2500HB automatic in-motion case weighing and labeling system combines precise in-motion weighing and case labeling without having to stop the case on the conveyor. The strong, USDA-approved food grade belt has a unique self-tracking design that maintains precise alignment even with continual heavy side loading. The advanced controller assures fast and accurate weighing of items up to 24 in. by 34 in. by 24 in. and up to 100 lbs.
Convergent Label Technology
800-252-6111

Palletizer

Offering productivity and flexibility, a pail and carton palletizer utilizes less than 68 sq. ft. of floor space. Speeds of up to 40 pails or cartons/minute can be attained depending on the infeed configuration and pallet pattern. The pallet hopper and dispenser control the stack from the bottom pallet with a virtually jam-proof operation. Pallet pattern changes and size parameters can easily be adjusted to handle a variety of pail and container shapes and sizes.
Heisler Industries, Inc.
973-227-6300

Lift that load ergonomically

An ergonomic vacuum lifting system safely handles up to 660 lbs. A worker using the Jumbo-Ergo 3000 can lift heavy boxes, sheets of wood or particle board, steel sheets, rigid workpieces, and more with a simple twist of its unique motorcycle-type throttle control. Powered by a belt-driven, two-stage 7-1/2 hp vacuum blower, it operates using a single 12 in. diameter lifting tube. The unique modular design of the system offers a choice of five standard vacuum heads and various handle lengths.
Schmalz
919-713-0880

Print bar codes directly on cartons

Incorporating a fully addressable, 500-nozzle printhead, the LegiJet model ML500 high-resolution ink jet coding system prints characters up to 2.8 in. high. Single- and two-dimensional bar codes, variable-sized text, plus graphics and logos can be printed on cartons or products at 180 dot/in. clarity and speeds up to 175 ft./min. Font sizes range from five points (0.06 in. high) to 280 points (2.8 in. high), with upper and lower case letters, plus bold and italic options as standard features. The system's Windows-based controller device incorporates a full what-you-see-is-what-you-get graphical display and standard keypad with touchpad for easy message editing.
Weber Marking Systems, Inc.
847-364-8500

Shrink film

A soft, yet durable film offers 60% shrink in each direction. In addition, Clysar ABL produces fewer "dog ears" on round, complex, or irregularly-shaped packages. It has excellent elongation, tear strength, and puncture-resistance properties, providing superb warps on products with sharp edges, often at very thin gauges.
DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers
302-992-6678

Electromagnetic conveyor

The VMC vibratory conveyor with integral metal detector provides precise and efficient conveying of dry bulk materials while protecting products from metal contamination. Specially designed fiberglass springs amplify the trough stroke and are adjustable to provide easy fine-tuning of conveyor motion. A variety of trough sizes are available to match the conveyor to specific application requirements. The conveyors can also be designed to help food processors meet and exceed their sanitary standards.
Eriez Magnetics 
800-345-4946

Ink jet printer

The Codaire high-resolution ink jet system prints on both porous and non-porous surfaces. Multiple printheads can be connected to provide bar code, text, and graphics imprinting on chipboards, corrugate, plastic, and textiles. Features include a character height up to 70 mm at 271 dot/in., stainless steel construction, and optional shaft encoder for variable speed lines.
Dalemark Industries, Inc.
732-367-3100

Build pallet loads easily

Utilizing an innovative end-of-arm-tool design and state-of-the-art software, the M-410 i robot will pick random box sizes and build an efficient and stable pallet load. The mixed unit load robotic palletizer is built for distribution and order fulfillment centers where products are individually picked and manually palletized to maximize pallet load density. The electric servo-driven robot features an integrated mechanical control unit.
Fanuc Robotics
800-47-ROBOT

Excellent printing performance

With a print speed up to 12 in./sec, the 170PAX2 print engines deliver excellent performance and system compatibility for case, carton, and pallet labeling applications. The 6.6 in. print width enables users to print wide labels without rotating the format, while the 3,000 ft ribbon capacity enables users to print higher qualities of labels without needing to replace the ribbon, maximizing system up-time. Features include rapid label formatting, advanced ribbon and media handling systems, and a variety of connectivity options.
Zebra Technologies Corp.
800-423-0442

Roller top belts

Series 400 and 800 roller top belts combine the familiar benefits of modular plastic belt construction with roller tops for low back-pressure accumulation. The rollers are built into the top surface of durable, heavy-duty belt modules. The series 400 transverse roller top belt's rollers are positioned at 90 degrees to transfer-off product handling. The belts eliminate noise problems and reduce maintenance costs.
Intralox, Inc.
504-733-0463

Digital printer

Ideal for labeling multiple stock keeping units in short to medium runs, the Odyssey digital printer covers an 11 in. to 32 in. live area on two sides. A thermal imaging system interfaces with your PC and standard Windows 95 software to produce an inexpensive membrane that can begin printing within minutes. Features include 60 case/minute production speeds, rugged construction and proven inking system, and custom width printers.
Kiwi Coders Corp
800-515-6960

Pallet wrapping system

A new pallet wrap system is available in two sizes, 5 in. and 20 in. wide. Each case contains a black U-shaped handle and tensioning orange grip for easier pallet wrapping. Used in combination, the handle system allows for easy wrapping of the bottom of pallets and optimum stretch and tension control.
Nifty Products
800-631-2172

Smart strapping

With servo dot/in.drive technology and production speeds up to 45 packages/minute, the Strapmaster strapping machine features 40% fewer parts than previous models. Other features include fewer wear components and minimal maintenance requirements.
Ovalstrapping, Inc.
256-845-1914

Apply labels to cases, pallets

The Q32 prints and applies labels to various products, shipping cases and pallets. Low label, low ribbon, end of ribbon, and end of media indicators are standard. Optional modules include air-tamp, air-blow, tamp-blow, wipe-on, and various pneumatic swing arms for side, top, leading edge, adjacent side or corner wrap applications.
Quadrel Labeling Systems
800-321-8509

Versatile label applicator

A labeling module applies most sizes of pre-printed labels to all types of packages, pallets, cases, or cartons with little regard to their size or shape. It can be seamlessly integrated into an in-line process, or function as a stand-alone system. For high-volume labeling applications, the applicator can be teamed with a printer, eliminating the need for pre-printed labels. Features include application speeds up to 24 in./sec, solid state electric controls, programmable back lit display, and a 12 in. outside diameter label supply with auto-rewind.
Paragon Labeling Systems
888-317-2633

Trim ribbon costs

This bar code label printer saves up to 50% of thermal transfer ribbon costs. Ribbon savings are automatic, and continue over the lifespan of the printer. Features include a print speed of up to 12 in./sec, a resolution of 304 dot/in., and accurate printing with constant back tension and proven print engine.
QuickLabel Systems 
877-757-7978

Strapping made simple

With its lightweight and friendly ergonomic design, ZAPAK simplifies strapping jobs while maintaining quality and efficiency. It is designed with durability and simplicity, minimizing maintenance costs. Features include sealing time adjustment and maximum peak tension measurements. Maximum peak tension is 220 lbs. The machine is easy to move and operate.
Pantech International, Inc.
(02) 2219-7878

Drum lifter/tilter

Featuring rugged polished stainless steel construction, model GBK portable drum lifter/tilter has a lifting capacity of 600 lbs. With a hydraulic cylinder stroke of 40 in., it clamps, lifts, and tilts most drums. A set of six wheels allows for easy maneuvering.
M.O. Industries, Inc.
973-386-9228

Bag palletizing systems

Available in low to high speeds, automatic bag palletizing systems improve safety and efficiency, reduce risk of personal injury, and improve product quality.
Newtec, Inc.
813-814-1949

Automatic case erectors

Featuring quality and reliability, the Casestar model 809 corrugated case erector/bottom sealer is available in three models. Hot melt adhesive, cold glue adhesive, and pressure sensitive tape sealing options are available.
Rockford Midland Corp.
800-327-7908

Make your own packing material

The PacMaster converts empty corrugated boxes into large-volume filler material suitable for packing goods for transport. It eliminates the cost associated with disposing of corrugated boxes and buying packaging material. Offering simple operation, the portable machine has a lockable main switch which also acts as an emergency stop and a rotary knob to control on/off and reverse functions.
Schleicher
800-775-7570

Secure that pallet load

The FlexNet family of products has two patented properties: elongation and memory. These features enable the netting to maintain constant load stability even under the most difficult shipping conditions while allowing air-flow into and out of the palletized products. Available in 20 in. and 30 in. rolls, the netting's built-in memory maintains optimum tension even under extreme load-motion conditions.
TamaNet (U.S.A.) Inc.
714-441-0884

Mechanical conveyor

The Slipstick is an oscillating mechanical conveyor driven with a slow-speed, horizontal differential motion. This motion is a slow-advance, quick-return cycle that glides product along the length of the conveyor. Features include improved sanitation maintenance and better quality product. Size ranges from 6 in. to 7 ft. in width and up to 200 ft. in length. While it is mostly used to transport dry products, it can handle wet, oily, and sticky products as well.
Triple/S Dynamics, Inc.
800-527-2116

Pail palletizer

The heavy-duty construction of a pail palletizer enables it to meet the most demanding production needs while being compact and flexible enough to fit most space limitations. The palletizer typically handles pails of different shapes (round to square), sizes (1 gallon to 5 gallon), and materials (plastic or steel). The operation of the unit is fully automatic including empty and full pallet indexing. The operator selects the pail pattern and the number of layers/pallet by programming the programmable controller.
Whallon Machinery Co.
219-643-9561 

Robotic palletizing system

An articulated arm palletizing system with unique end-of-arm tooling is capable of many types of product handling. The palletizer can be integrated with case packing equipment.
Schneider Packaging Equipment Co., Inc.
315-676-3035

Conveyor line

A line of stainless steel conveyors utilizes belts made of fabric, plastic, or stainless steel wire. All belts are USDA and FDA approved. The family includes inclined belt conveyors, horizontal belt conveyors, table top conveyors, and wire belt conveyors.
O/K International Corp.
508-303-8067

Improve ergonomics

The Liftronic PN pneumatic zero-gravity load balancer offers a cost-effective solution for effortless heavy manual lifting. Its operation is simple: as soon as a load is gripped, an upward force is created that is equal and opposite to the weight of the object being held, both when stationary and while moving. Available in column-mounted, ceiling-mounted, and rail-mounted models, its load capacity is 350 lbs. Built for reliability and safety, the load balancer reduces strains, accidents, and labor costs while increasing productivity.
Scaglia America
704-357-8811

Ink jet over 200 messages

With the ability to store up to 224 messages that can be accessed with a few keystrokes, the Videojet EXCEL 2000 prints logos, standard bar codes, variable data and other information. Offering a high degree of reliability, the 2000 has dramatically improved print quality with Accudrop character generation. Also, it is built to stand up to the most demanding environments with a cabinet constructed of stainless steel to meet IP65 wash-down standards.
Marconi Data Systems Inc.
800-654-4663

Chain guide line

A comprehensive line of chain guides and tracks for a range of conveyors includes standard sizes for all ANSI, Metric, and TAB chain as well as custom-made sheaves, sprockets, and curves. Materials used are ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, nylon, and high-temperature materials.
Timco, Inc.
914-736-0202

Simple stacking for pallet loads

The PS500 pallet load stacker automatically stacks full or partial pallet loads quickly and accurately. It can save up to 60 sec./stacked load compared to using a forklift. It also saves labor and time while using a minimum amount of floor space. The stacker straddles the pallet and holds the unit loads with a positive stop gate. A pneumatic alignment system locates the pallets in a consistent position. Based on a heavy-duty four-post steel frame, the unit handles a wide range of unit loads sizes and pallet styles.
Kolinahr Systems, Inc.
513-745-9401

Stabilize that load

Designed for unstable, large, and heavy loads with an unlimited load capacity, the Sidewinder unlimited rotary tower stretch wrap machine now includes new control features. These include top-over wrap, carriage pause, and cycle pause control. Other features include a load height sensing eye and on-board diagnostics.
Infra Pak Inc.
972-509-2270

Trim conveyor noise

Koat-A-Roll is a non-marking, rugged, slip-on covering for standard conveyor rollers that reduces noise and damage. This high-friction surface also allows powered conveying at steeper angles and greater elevations.
Kastalon
800-KASTALON

Depalletize that load

A family of high and low level depalletizers are designed for trouble-free, efficient operation. Each depalletizer is custom built to your individual needs and specifications and can run a wide variety of round and non-round containers. Standard features include the latest programmable controller technology, corrosion resistant steel frame, sure-stop hoist control for accurate, consistent positioning, and soft handling, damage-free tier sheet transfer and stacking.
Aidco International, Inc.
517-265-7165

Automatic bag palletizers

The AP-400 series of high-level bag palletizers automatically stacks bags and bales squarely and efficiently on a pallet. The modular concept allows it to be adapted to many stacking configurations. Available in models for palletizing bags or bales, the palletizers feature all-electric gear motor movements and smooth, quiet operation.
Premier Tech Packaging
418-868-TECH

Stretchwrapper

The Futura 2000 stretchwrapping machine is based on a revolutionary modular concept. Features include safe double V-belt arm drive, high performance, and dependable film tail treatment.
Wulftec International
819-838-4232

Versatile palletizer

The series4000 palletizer handles a wide range of case sizes at speeds to 60 cases/minute. Features include electric or hydraulic drive system, heavy tubular construction, high-speed line divider, and soft case turning system.
Production Automation Inc.
334-281-4970