The new generation of thermoforming machines is now available for all application and performance classes. The high performance machine R 535 has already been installed in a range of applications. For Interpack 2008 in Düsseldorf, in hall 5 stand C 23 / D 24, the company is presenting other models: from the flexible R 245, the compact R 145 and the Darfresh skin machine R 175 CD to the economy model R 125. The machines feature a completely new hygienic design and further developments regarding the design engineering and functions, allowing for increased process security and efficiency.

The Integration of Complete Lines

Following the slogan “Clean and Clever”, the machines are presented in several applications at Interpack. For example, integrated into a complete line for food products with a robotic unloading unit and a quality control system from Ishida/MR that consists of a weight / price labeler, seal testing device, X-ray testing device and the automatic ejection of flawed packages. In the non-food area, Multivac presents blister packs with exceptional seal quality and a base.

Hygienic Design on the Outside and Inside

The new hygiene design simplifies and accelerates the cleaning process. Crevices and other dead spaces are meticulously eliminated. This principle has been engineered into every detail. Examples include closed return shafts, a sanitary film intake and the elimination of exterior threads on height-adjustable feet.

As a unique feature on the market, this principle has also been implemented on the interior of the machine. The design details have consistently been optimized for sanitation, including the cables and hoses as much as the motors and vacuum pumps. The new open design of chain and chain guide are particularly innovative: This patented improvement allows for the easy removal of contaminants - without the need for disassembling the chain. Food manufacturers can ensure the highest hygienic standard with far less effort and lower costs.

The new hygiene design is certified through the German government safety organization for foodstuffs (Berufsgenossenschaft Nahrungsmittel und Gaststätten) according to the stringent requirements of the DIN EN 1672-2, as well as in accordance to the NSF/ANSI/3A 14159 through the USDA.

Automatic Cleaning System

This concept is supported by a new optional “Clean in Place” technology for the R 535 and R 245, an absolutely new concept for thermoformers that is offered exclusively by Multivac for the first time. The new CIP system makes it possible to chemically clean the components in the interior through an automated, standardized and protocoled program run by the machine control system. This assures that the prescribed cleaning cycles, doses and mixture of chemicals are adhered to. This precisely reproducible hygiene provides maximum protection for the consumer at lower cost while and increasing the lifespan of the machine.

Performance and Ergonomics

Hygiene is one aspect - but the new generation is also setting new standards in terms of performance and ergonomics. The R 535 is the market leader in terms of tool sizes and speed, with cut-off lengths of 1600 mm and up to 30 cycles per minute. The new optional drawer for the R 535 enables quick and easy format changes without disassembling the hot surface of the tool. This is supplemented by design improvements, such as in the chain and the modular lifting mechanism.

At Interpack 2008 a series of technical innovations will be shown. For example a high- peed forming system, in which pre-stressed air is forced into moulds. This improves the film strength on the package bottom and in the corners - this is of particular importance for packaging with larger dimensions and draw depths. Or a system that is able to automatically change machine tools, and in which the exchange of mould plates is simplified to minimize re-equipment times.

Excellent Design in Form and Function

Multivac’s new generation is among the prize winners of this year‘s iF Packaging Award, which is awarded by the renowned iF Industrie Forum Design. The award recognizes the successful integration of innovative design with functionality, reliability, ergonomics and processing. The prize ceremony is taking place at Interpack.

More information: www.multivac.com