The new generation of Multivac thermoforming machines is now available for all uses and production levels. Multivac presents its complete line of machines including the high-performance model R 535, the versatile R 245, and the compact R 145 as well as the economy model R 125. The machines feature a completely new hygienic design and further developments regarding the design engineering and functions, including the lifting unit and tools. These advancements allow for increased machine performance, ergonomics, and economy.

The new hygienic design simplifies and accelerates the cleaning process on the exterior as well as the interior of the machine. One example is the open design of the chain and chain guide. The patented innovation enables the easy removal of contaminants and impurities without disassembling the chain - an important convenience for food manufacturers. This concept is supported by an optional Clean-in- lace (CIP) system for the R 535 and R 245, an absolute innovation for thermoforming machines. CIP enables the automated and reproducible cleaning of the internal machinery.

Integration over the Complete Packaging Line

Under the Clean and Clever motto the machines will be demonstrated in several applications. For example, integrated in a complete line with a quality control system from Ishida/MR, composed of weight and price labeling, a seal testing mechanism, an x-ray scanning mechanism, and an automatic removal of defective packages. Customers receive a completely integrated packaging line in which the components are harmonized with one another. This is the result of the strategic distribution cooperation between Ishida and the Multivac Group.

The line is further completed by the new Multivac handling module H 100, in the hygiene design of the new machine generation. At the exhibition it will be used as a line separation unloader. A 2-axial cinematic places the packages directly onto a weighing belt - a space saving solution. The robot can equally undertake the loading process. A modular design enables adaptation to a number of applications.

Innovative Re-closure System

The compact R 145 system will be presented with an innovative solution for reclosable packages. For the top web, the new E-Close product from Amcor will be used. It’s a contour laser-scored laminate with a special coating. Thus the reclosure capability is fully integrated in the top web, no special machine equipment is required. For thermoform packages, Amcor E-Close is available exclusively with Multivac machines.

On the R 125 model, an innovative “retro-designed” packaging is shown: “PrePack”. These packages reduce the package weight and allow the product to look like hand- rapped at the sales counter. At the same time they offer the logistic and hygienic advantages of industrial packaging, as well as other possibilities from re-closure to multilayered packaging with separately sealed portion pouches.

The R 175 CD is yet another machine offering of the new generation. It is used to produce Darfresh skin packaging, an exclusive cooperation between Cryovac and Multivac. This compact “CD” (Cryovac Darfresh) model is suitable for the highly profitable skin packaging for small to midsize production volumes. Multivac traysealers can also be used in the skin packaging process, with a range of models offering performance with suitable trays. A fully automatic Multivac T400 traysealer is one such model, and it will be demonstrated at Interpack with an additional combination tool for MAP and skin packaging.

On the Shelves: Upstanding and Outstanding

For non-food products, Multivac presents blister packaging with a particularly high seal firmness. One special highlight to be shown at Interpack is packaging with ’’standing bases’’ that are able to stand upright without the use of a display. This is obtained through a special forming process on the Multivac thermoforming machine.

Manufacturers of medical devices or sensitive technical products will be particularly interested in Multivac’s C 400 TC and C 500 TC vacuum chamber systems. These specially engineered TC (Temperature Control) machines are equipped with solid seal bars to deliver a constant temperature over the entire sealing surface throughout the full sealing cycle. This is vital for demanding medical applications requiring package validation and a guarantee of low residual oxygen. Multivac offers a complete validation package according to ISO 11607, as a contribution to manufacturers’ validation requirements. This is critical to the sterile medical products industry, and is a growing interest to food producers as well.

More information: www.multivac.com