Endoline helping food manufacturers drive efficiency

Endoline Automation – helping food manufacturers drive efficiency and reduce energy costs

Energy consumption in the food and beverage industry has always been a considerable factor, spanning across numerous processes within the manufacturing cycle. However, with rising food costs and increasing energy prices fuelled by global events, the industry faces significant pressure to find alternative solutions to combat these escalating expenses.

It’s no longer just about productivity; managing energy cost volatility is now critical for food and beverage manufacturers navigating these economic challenges.

Recognising the urgent need for improved energy efficiency on packaging lines, Endoline Automation has introduced a groundbreaking solution that promises to make a substantial impact. By re-engineering its 248 Fully Automatic Case Erector, Endoline has integrated the innovative SMC Air Management System (AMS) to address the growing demands for energy conservation.

This new design upgrade enables manufacturers to save over 60% on energy costs, providing a welcome reprieve in an increasingly strained environment.

Compressed air has long been an essential resource within manufacturing plants, valued for being clean, safe, and readily available. However, it is also an expensive resource if not managed efficiently. Widely used to power automation in large-scale factories, compressed air accounts for up to 40% of a manufacturing facility’s total energy bill. Without effective monitoring, leak rates can be alarmingly high, resulting in wasted energy and increased operating costs.

These inefficiencies can also impact production output, further hindering profitability.

Endoline Automation’s technological innovation directly mitigates the risks associated with compressed air misuse. Working in collaboration with SMC Pneumatics UK, the company has incorporated the AMS30 Air Management System into its 248 Fully Automatic Case Erector. This advanced system continuously monitors airflow, using only the exact amount of air required. It can also automatically reduce air pressure to pre-set values and isolate the air supply when the machine isn’t operating. This level of precision dramatically reduces needless air consumption, alleviating the financial burden on manufacturers while maintaining operational efficiency.

Another critical feature of the AMS30 system is its focus on traceability. The system boasts an open dashboard with an OPC UA interface that enables manufacturers to monitor compressed air output. This data can be integrated into a customer’s monitoring system, offering a precise, real-time view of air usage. Such transparency allows manufacturers to detect and address air leaks swiftly, preventing energy waste and potential disruptions.

“Our fully automatic case erectors are already powered by servo drives for their ability to provide greater control with energy efficiency. These drives only consume power when needed, enabling instant adjustments during the case erecting process,” says Andrew Yates, Managing Director of Endoline Automation. “However, we understand that our customers are under immense pressure to cut energy costs further. With compressed air being a hidden cost driver, its efficient use is crucial. We are thrilled to offer a solution that not only reduces energy costs but also enhances the overall efficiency of our systems.”

The integration of SMC’s Air Management System (AMS) is an exciting leap forward for Endoline Automation. This system can now be incorporated into most of their packaging solutions and retrofitted into existing equipment with modifications. By offering this upgrade, Endoline Automation continues to set a new standard in sustainable, cost-effective manufacturing for the food and beverage industry.