Packaging manufacturer TNA will launch six new technologies, aimed at improving confectionery and snack packing, at the Interpack trade show in Germany in April.

Company spokesperson Katie McDougal told ConfectioneryNews.com that the new advancements were designed as additions to TNA's existing Robag - a vertical form, fill & seal (VFFS) machine, launched in 2007 to pack small food products, such as crisps and sweets, into bags.

"We will be unveiling six brand new technologies at the show which have never been seen before, although the basic design of the machinery stays the same," she said.

The Robag, or product bagging part of the machinery, is now capable of speeds of over 220 bags per minute, and is equipped with a new jaw for sealing the packaging.

The company decided to create this feature of the Robag to allow manufacturers to package food item in square or block bottom bags, McDougal said.

"These packets are good for visual marketing because of their square shape," she said. "Manufacturers can also stack more of them on a shelf."

Processors also have the option of optional 'bag shaker' software for the Robag, which uses centrifugal force to literally shake the product up and down at timed intervals. This feature was created especially for products that stick, such as frozen or breaded items, McDougal said.

Alternatively, TNA has created a twin configuration Robag, which is economic quite simply because it doubles production rates, the company claims.

Finally, the company has created two mechanical processes to help protect the product as it passes through the bagging system.

The first is improved Roflo technology, a gateless conveyor system that moves the food product along the distribution system. The Roflo is designed specifically to handle delicate foods, such as chocolates or confectionery, as it is equipped with gentle linear motion control, the company claims.

Secondly, the new Robat can now be controlled with Scada Intelli Assist technology, which allows processors to control the speed, style and weighing functions via a touchpad.

After the Interpack show in Germany, due to take place between the 24 and 30 April this year, TNA plans to roll the new technologies out on a global scale.