Simplicity, packaged

When SPC Ardmona decided to develop a healthy alternative to fast food snacks, the company kept it simple. The result was the epitome of simplicity: fresh apples, sliced and bagged.

In fact, the most complicated aspect of the new product is its packaging. When researching packaging machinery options, SPC Ardmona engineers conducted extensive Factory Acceptance Trials at the PFM factory in Italy using the PFM Comet vertical form-fill-seal bagger and MBP C2 Series multihead weigher.

The SPC Ardmona sliced apple snack product.

“Using both the bagger and multihead weigher, the line speed trials ran at 100 packs/min, with an accuracy of well below one standard deviation achieved,” said Chris Johnson, Emrich’s engineering manager.

“As the Comet is a continuous motion machine, the line performed exceptionally well in terms of speed and accuracy, and therefore met SPC Ardmona’s performance requirements.”

The machines are both easy to clean and the C2 weigher can be cleaned using a washdown process.

The PFM Comet vertical form fill seal bagger.

“SPC Ardmona’s engineers also cited the Comet’s setting flexibility, self-diagnosis capability and durability as reasons for choosing to purchase the PFM Comet vertical form fill seal bagger,” said Johnson.

“They also valued Emrich’s backup and support in deciding to purchase the packaging equipment through Emrich.”

The MBP C2 series multihead weigher.

The packaging machinery was installed in SPC Ardmona’s Mooroopna factory in late 2012. Johnson says the feedback from SPC Ardmona is that the equipment is reliable and delivers everything that was promised.

“The Emrich technical team installed and commissioned the equipment and we have also provided operator training, parts supply and ongoing technical support. Overall, the project has been a success for all parties.”