Endoline Automation answers calls for compact, automated end-of-line systems

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The Covid-19 crisis has increased demand for compact, space saving end-of-line packaging equipment, with many manufacturers automating their processing lines within confined spaces.

Many manufacturers have accelerated automation plans, however, typical within UK factory sites, space is often a premium and demand for efficient, yet compact solutions is on the rise. As a leader in end-of-line machinery, Endoline Automation have seen increasing enquiries for its slimline 251 Fully Automatic Case Erector.

As the narrowest case erector on the market, Endoline re-engineered its flagship case erecting range to create the 251, which features a 40% reduction in width.

At just 1 metre wide by 2 metres long, the 251 can be easily integrated into existing end-of-line packaging lines, and offers an automated solution to replace manually intensive work.

Still developed to the high specification of all Endoline systems, with several key features, the 251 has been designed to suit a wide variety of case sizes, styles and quality.

Endoline’s unique dual opposing vacuum technology has been integrated into the 251, to enable efficient opening of cases, while eliminating any associated issues with stiff board and glue migration which could cause product wastage.

Erecting up to 10 cases per minute, the slimline case erector seals the base with either self-adhesive tape or hot melt glue, before formed cases are fed onto an automated case packer, or hand packing station.

“While space has always been a challenge for many UK manufacturers, Covid-19 has led to calls for automation which not only fits into small areas, but are compact enough to leave enough space for people to move around safely.” Comments Andrew Yates, MD of Endoline Automation.

“As the preferred case erecter supplier of Moba Systems, we originally designed the 251 to suit their egg packing systems. Creating a machine which still featured all of the high quality features and technology, which is synonymous with Endoline, at almost half the width of other case erectors.

However, demand for compact solutions has increased and the 251 offers any of our customers a case erecting solution which can be quickly integrated into existing lines.”

Endoline Automation’s slimline
251 Fully Automatic Case Erector which
is the narrowest on the market


Endoline – Contact Details

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Due to current government regulations, as from 6th January 2021, all of our office staff will be working from home. Manufacturing and test remain in full operation, therefore it is business as usual at Endoline.

If you have an enquiry relating to Machinery Sales, Spares, Service & Technical Support or Purchasing please call 0044 (0)1767 316 422 and select from the updated options to speak to the relevant department.

For all other enquiries please email sales@endoline-automation.com and your enquiry will be redirected accordingly.

We will update you once again when the office staff have returned to the business.

New Management Structure

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Endoline Machinery Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Yates as managing director.

Andrew is the third generation of the Yates family to manage the business following Ron and Alan.

Andrew is also the managing director of Endoline Robotics Ltd which, with it’s partner, Fanuc supplies robotic palletising system in the UK.

The Endoline group of companies have been manufacturing and supplying an extensive portfolio of packaging machines worldwide for nearly 40 years and has become recognised as a leader in its field.

Alan Yates, who becomes the Company chairman, said “We have had a succession plan in place for a number of years; but any succession plan must not be based upon the individuals surname but upon their integrity, their professionalism and their ability. Andrew has all those attributes in abundance and, I am confident, will take the Group to further heights.” 

Alan added “As I said to Andrew on his appointment – when the nasty stuff hits the fan; the shovel is now in your office”

Christmas Shutdown

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The Endoline offices will be closed over the Christmas period. The office will close at 1230 GMT on the 24th December 2020 and re-open at 0830 GMT on Monday 4th January 2021.

For urgent enquiries during this time, e.g. machine breakdowns,  please ring +44 (0)1767 316422 and your call will be forwarded to our service department.

The latest date for spares shipment is Tuesday 22nd December 2020. Please send your spares orders to spares@endoline-automation.com or contact our spares co-ordinator on +44 (0)1767 310571.

Endoline Automation creates two new apprenticeship positions

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Endoline Automation is forging ahead with apprenticeship plans, announcing the appointment of two new apprentices.

Despite the recruitment of UK apprentices across the UK declining by 50% as a result of the pandemic, the end-of-line automation specialist recognises the need to harness a new generation of talent.

Both apprentices will be supplementing their college education with hands on experience working within Endoline Automation’s Bedfordshire based factory. They will play a key role in the build of the high spec, end-of-line automated systems which are sold to manufacturers across the globe.

Currently studying electrical installation at North Herts College, 17-year-old Ethan Cannon-Tonks, will gain vital work experience with Endoline two days a week before embarking upon an Electro/Mechanical Engineering apprenticeship next year at Bedford College.

The second apprentice, Lucas Hammond, 21, has just started a Mechanical Engineering Apprenticeship at Bedford College, while spending four days a week on-site with Endoline Automation.

Both Ethan and Lucas will be fully qualified as an Electro/Mechanical Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer respectively, within three to four years.

“I was keen to work within construction and, when the offer of an apprenticeship with Endoline came about, I jumped at the chance.” Comments Ethan. “I am learning so much during my time in the factory, and I am amazed at the attention to detail which goes into building the systems. It is certainly challenging, but very enjoyable and I am looking forward to a long career within the sector.”

“Sitting at a desk all day wasn’t for me,” explains Lucas. “I wanted a hands-on, practical job which I am certainly getting at Endoline. We have been put straight in at the deep end which, considering the high level of engineering involved, could be quite daunting, but I am thoroughly enjoying it. The build is complex and there are so many factors involved including a high level of health and safety – I am learning all the time.

Seeing how these systems make such a difference for globally renowned food manufacturers is fantastic and I can certainly see myself having a career in electro mechanics.”

End-of-line case erectors, packers and sealers are becoming increasingly intelligent through the integration of greater digital power and computerised technology. Endoline, which has been in operation for almost 40 years, sets a benchmark within the industry for designing and building standard and customised systems which directly meets evolving demands from manufacturers in the food, beverage, FMCG and pharma industries.

Consequently, the company recognises the need to create a continual pipeline of new engineering talent.

“We have been wanting to take on new apprentices for some time now to inject some youth into our experienced production team.” Comments Richard Yates, Operations Director for Endoline Automation. “We felt that now was the time to do it, especially as, more than ever, youngsters are struggling to find positions within manufacturing.”

From left to right, Lucas Hammond, Richard Yates, Operations Director for Endoline Automation and Ethan Cannon-Tonks

 

Both Ethan and Lucas will play a key role in the build of Endoline’s high spec, automated systems which are sold to manufacturers across the globe.

 

 

Endoline Automation launches case packing technology for snacks market

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A new, fully automated Case Packer system, launched by Endoline Automation, is assisting snack processors and packers automate within compact spaces.

The Case Packer, which combines case erecting, packing, and sealing technology within one system, has been engineered to pack a range of different snack products – from pillow bags to flat bottomed bags/pouches and PET bottles.

An all in one system, the Case Packer is a cost effective alternative to installing a trio of individual machines, and has been engineered in response to rising demand from snack manufacturers who are increasingly looking to automate their packing lines, to reduce footprint, and to move away from manual labour.

With precise product handling at speeds of 12 cases per minute, the Case Packer receives single products from an infeed conveyor, groups them according to the programmed pattern on a loading platform, before lowering them into a formed case below, the filled case is then automatically closed and sealed on the top and bottom with tape.

Suitable for the packing of multi-bags of crisps, pouches of dried fruits and nuts, and PET bottles of drinks – the Case Packer system can be customised to suit specific demands, and reprogrammed for the packing of different products, formats, and quantities.

Industry 4.0 compatible technology integrated within the Case Packer can capture and make data readily available for use in “live” decision making scenarios.

The compact design also makes it the ideal solution for production areas with limited available space as the full system is in one frame, rather than having three separate machines, therefore drastically reducing footprint.

The Case Packer combines Endoline’s market leading erecting and sealing systems with case packing technology all integrated into one machine. “Endoline works with globally recognised food and beverage manufacturers, so we are aware of the increasing demand for fully automated systems which will increase efficiency, while taking up a reduced amount of floor space.

 Snacks manufacturers in particular are seeking flexible systems which can handle different packaging materials.” Andrew Yates, Sales Director of Endoline Automation explains. “We have re-engineered our case erectors and sealers to meet expectations for compact, flexible systems, but by incorporating case packing we are now able to offer a complete end of line solution.”

Industry 4.0 compatible technology integrated within the Case Packer can capture and make data readily available for use in “live” decision making scenarios

Endoline’s Case Packer, which combines erecting, packing, and sealing technology, dramatically reduces factory footprint as it is built within one frame

Snack manufacturers require flexibility with their end of line systems to manage a range of packaging styles


New, compact, Case Packing system helps dairy industry pack PET bottles

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A new, fully automated Case Packer system, launched by Endoline Automation, is set to assist packers of dairy products to automate within compact spaces.

The Case Packer, which combines case erecting, packing, and sealing technology within one compact system, can also help dairy packers manage the shift to PET bottles.

An all in one system, the Case Packer is a cost effective alternative to installing a trio of individual machines, and has been engineered in response to rising demand from UK manufacturers who are increasingly looking to automate their packing lines, to reduce footprint, and to move away from manual labour.

With precise product handling at speeds of 12 cases per minute, the Case Packer receives single products from an infeed conveyor, groups them according to the programmed pattern on a loading platform, before lowering them into a formed case below, the filled case is then automatically closed and sealed on the top and bottom with tape.

The use of PET is expected to significantly row within the liquid dairy sector, with UHT milk, yogurt drinks and milkshakes increasingly being supplied in PET bottles. As a result, the Case Packer has been engineered to handle a wide range of PET bottles, along with cartons, glass bottles, and flat-bottomed bags.The system can be customised to suit specific demands, and reprogrammed for the packing of different products, formats, and quantities.

Industry 4.0 compatible technology integrated within the Case Packer can capture and make data readily available for use in “live” decision making scenarios.

The compact design also makes it the ideal solution for production areas with limited available space as the full system is in one frame, rather than having three separate machines, therefore drastically reducing footprint.

The Case Packer combines Endoline’s market leading erecting and sealing systems with case packing technology all integrated into one machine. “Working with the UK’s leading food manufacturers we are aware of the increasing demand for fully automated systems which will increase efficiency, and for flexible systems which can handle different packaging materials.” Andrew Yates, Sales Director of Endoline Automation explains.

“We have re-engineered our case erectors and sealers to meet expectations for compact, flexible systems, but by incorporating case packing we are now able to offer a complete end of line solution.”

The use of PET is expected to significantly grow within the liquid dairy sector.
Image credit: PET Technologies News

Endoline’s Case Packer, which combines erecting, packing, and sealing technology, dramatically reduces factory footprint as it is built within one frame

Industry 4.0 compatible technology integrated within the Case Packer can capture and make data readily available for use in “live” decision making scenarios


Endoline automates packing operation for leading egg producer

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Endoline Automation is assisting leading egg producer, Bird Bros, who processes more than 200 million eggs a year, to automate their end-of-line packing operation.

Following on from the successful installation of its award winning 734 Fully Automatic Random Case Sealer in 2016, Endoline are now integrating four, 251 Slimline Case Erectors into Bird Bros’ Bedfordshire packing plant.

Endoline will install the four case erecting systems and integrate them to work with two new, Moba MR-12 robot loading cells. Filled cases will be fed through to the 734 which can seal up to 22 random sized cases per minute. Endoline modified the high-speed sealing system with servo drives to manage the increased level of output.

Endoline Automation also re-engineered its existing case erecting range, to create the 251 case erecting solution for Moba, the world’s leading provider of egg grading, packing, and processing equipment, who currently have 70% of the global egg processing market share.

As the narrowest case erector on the market, at only 1M wide, the 251 seamlessly integrates into Moba’s egg packing systems.

Built to a small footprint, the 251 Case Erector can be installed within the most compact factory settings. Endoline have created a layout to work within the restricted space of the Bird Bros factory, while enabling them to erect and load four different case formats simultaneously at speeds of nine cases per minute, per format.

Endoline have also designed the conveyor layout to suit the factory space, installing chain transfer conveyors to make quick 90 degree turns, which will reduce the overall length of the system.

By automating its packing line, and increasing capacity for output, Endoline will enable Bird Bros to take on new business as required, while reducing reliance on manual operators.

Endoline Automation’s installation within Bird Bros will take place at the end of October.

Endoline’s 251 Case Erector with chain transfer conveyors ready for installation within Bird Bros

 

Packaging automation set to aid food manufacture growth in the wake of Covid-19

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Automation is set to play an increasingly larger role in safeguarding the future of the UK’s food manufacturing industry, according to end-of-line machinery specialist, Endoline Automation.

While most UK food manufacturers understood the efficiencies gained from automation, adoption was at a far slower pace than other countries. However, Covid-19 has emphasised the need to update manual manufacturing practices that will prevent many from recovering quickly once social distancing measures are lifted.

According to a recent post by the International Federation of Robots (IFR) in comparison to several countries across the world, the UK was the only country, over a 10-year period, to report a 9% decrease in productivity per person.

While coronavirus undoubtedly put a strain on global productivity, UK manufacturers faced significant issues because of workers being unable to work in production lines where they normally stand less than 50 cm apart on 12-hour shifts.

There is an established link between automation and increased productivity, so now is the time for UK manufacturers to look at long term growth and invest in automation to support labour intensive activities.

So, why have UK food manufacturers always been so reluctant to take the automation plunge?

Here, Andrew Yates, Sales Director for Endoline Automation, discusses the reasons why the UK lagged behind its global counterparts, how automated end-of-line packaging systems today meets manufacturer demands, and how machinery can be integrated into processing and packing lines quickly to ramp up output.

Demonstrating flexibility

For some food manufacturers, a wariness to change well established manual processes, and an aversion to the risks that new technologies can bring, have created major roadblocks, preventing them from reaping the many benefits automated systems can yield.

Within food manufacturing, the variability of materials has played a major factor, particularly as many believe that uniformity plays a vital role in ensuring automation runs efficiently. To meet retail demand, manufacturers are producing an abundance of brand varieties in all shapes and sizes which can cause greater complexities, due to the variation in size, shape, quality, and weight of the product.

“Retailers are constantly vying for consumer attention, creating greater choices which are continually changing. Historically, this hasn’t always lent itself well to automation and manufacturers need assurances that the investment they make in end-of-line packaging automation is future-proof.”

Fully automated end-of-line systems today can manage an unprecedented range of case styles and sizes and have been re-engineered to handle a wide variety of case materials to suit retail specifications, from poorly scored, lightweight cases, to heavy, twin wall cases. Random systems, with integrated bar code reading technology can seal random sized cases at high speed – and be reconfigured remotely to manage new sizes and orientations as and when required.

Health & Safety

Getting health and safety right has never been more paramount. Food manufactures need to adhere to stringent measures and are being set greater guidance on the use of machinery through the Food Standard Agency’s regulatory model, facing stiffer sentences if they are non-compliant.

Tougher governance around health and safety shouldn’t be a deterrent to automation, however it is vital that manufacturers do not take a CE certified machine at face value.

“There are a number of other factors which need to be considered. Manufacturers need to understand the area the machine will be located in and assess the environment for any safety concerns such as access.”

End-of-line equipment in particular presented significant hazards. Not only do they operate automatically and, in some cases, at very high speed, but the openings, to allow the cases to be transported through the system, are often large enough to be a potential for unauthorised access.

Over the years quality, end-of-line systems have been ergonomically designed offering safer operator access and the integration of Safety Light curtains not only safeguards the machine, but eliminates the need for additional safety guarding so reducing the overall footprint. Systems can also be constructed from IP65 washdown rated stainless steel.

Eliminating unnecessary downtime

Food manufacturing sites that are highly automated operate with fewer workers, resulting in a larger opportunity for uninterrupted processing. Manufacturers are currently seeking to mitigate the risk of sending people home in virus-susceptible areas within their facilities, and automation is a big part of this solution.

The risk of downtime, as a result of machinery failure, servicing or reprogramming has always been a bottleneck in the adoption of automation.

However, automation specialists have been driving the intelligence of end-of-line systems forward for some time, and there is now a greater emphasis on linking these systems together and integrating them into a customers’ own specific data network. Consequently, food manufacturers can capture, process, and analyse big data from the factory floor remotely, and improve productivity, avoid downtime through predictive maintenance, upload new case recipes, and optimise energy use.

“Our systems built today feature an integrated, Industry 4.0 compatible HMI interface enabling engineers to easily re-programme the machine to allow for new configurations of case sizes remotely via a computer, tablet or even a mobile.”

In addition, these SMART systems can be also used to monitor the machinery and send alerts on any preventive maintenance issues and spares shortages. “End-of-line systems are very self-sufficient.”

Beyond Covid-19

Automation has always been an enabler to streamline and enhance efficiency and, as a result of the pressure created by the crisis on manual process, manufacturers should now be able to clearly identify which areas would benefit from automation.

Covid-19 has undoubtedly heightened the need for the UK to integrate automation into their packing lines. By taking the steps to automate, manufacturers will be prepared for any future crisis or shutdown, while ensuring that their output levels and efficiencies remain high.

This will also make the UK more competitive on the global production field.

Covid-19 could diminish the reliance UK food factories has on manual workers in favour of fully automated systems.

 

Endoline’s Case Packer system demonstrates the high-tech, flexible capabilities of end-of-line packaging machinery.


Coronavirus Statement

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In light of recent requests for information on Endoline’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak we are detailing below the actions being taken.

In these challenging times we may all find our services and supplies being interrupted. However Endoline have already put into place numerous actions and precautions. For example;

  • The Company has been divided into two teams which do not overlap, thereby minimising the onward transmission within the Company. This is combined with home-working for a number of employees.
  • The Company has refused entry to our premises for all visitors.
  • No contractors have been engaged.
  • Goods delivery personnel are not permitted on the premise. All deliveries are handled off-site and extra hygiene procedures are in place for employees accepting deliveries.
  • Increased hygiene standards have been introduced i.e. hand sanitisers, alcohol wipes, no hand-shaking policy, hand-washing monitoring.
  • The Company is in discussions with financial providers should our smaller, more vulnerable, suppliers need our support.
  • Multinational suppliers have assured Endoline of continuity of supply.
  • Sales and service engineers are abiding by customer hygiene standards and visiting protocols.
  • All entrances to the Company are permanently locked and barriers placed in office space.

Endoline’s sales and technical support is uninterrupted and still available during normal working hours.

Endoline will do all it can to ensure the safety of its employees and that business will continue.

Clearly there are numerous restrictions on activity and hence the speed of response and service may be affected but the Company will strive to satisfy its demands as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Kind regards,

Andrew Yates
Sales Director