AUTOMATIC PACKERS

Stretch-film packers OUTPUT* APPROXIMATE SIZE**

SFP 30 ERGON FILM ONLY 30 PPM 6490 x 1774 x 2450 mm 21.30 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

PAG. 6

Shrink wrappers OUTPUT* APPROXIMATE SIZE**

AFW 30 F/P/T ERGON F= FILM ONLY 30 PPM 10060 x 1774 x 2450 mm 33.01 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
P= PAD + FILM
T= TRAY ONLY
AFW 40 F/P/T ERGON 40 PPM PAG. 8 10980 x 1774 x 2450 mm 36.02 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
TRAY + FILM

LSK SF 30 ERGON FILM ONLY 30 PPM 7672 x 1774 x 2450 mm 25.17 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

LSK 30 F/P/T ERGON F= FILM ONLY 30 PPM 10400 x 1774 x 2450 mm 34.12 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
P= PAD + FILM
T= TRAY ONLY
LSK 40 F/P/T ERGON TRAY + FILM 40 PPM 11320 x 1774 x 2450 mm 37.14 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

LSK 32 F ERGON 60 PPM 9820 x 1974 x 2450 mm 32.22 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft

F= FILM ONLY
PAG. 10
LSK 42 F ERGON 80 PPM 9820 x 1974 x 2450 mm 32.22 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft

CSK 40 F/P/T ERGON F= FILM ONLY 40 PPM 11480 x 1774 x 2450 mm 37.66 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
P= PAD + FILM
T= TRAY ONLY
CSK 50 F/P/T ERGON TRAY + FILM 50 PPM 12980 x 1774 x 2450 mm 42.59 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

CSK 42 F ERGON 80 PPM 11480 x 1974 x 2450 mm 37.66 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft

F= FILM ONLY
PAG. 12
CSK 52 F ERGON 100 PPM 12690 x 1974 x 2450 mm 41.63 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft

ASW 50 F/P/T ERGON F= FILM ONLY 50 PPM 7618 x 1774 x 2450 mm 25.00 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
P= PAD + FILM
ASW 60 F/P/T ERGON 60 PPM 8718 x 1774 x 2450 mm 28.60 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
T= TRAY ONLY
PAG. 14
ASW 80 F/P/T ERGON TRAY + FILM 80 PPM 9668 x 1774 x 2450 mm 31.72 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

SK 500 F/P/T ERGON 50 PPM 15815 x 1774 x 2450 mm 51.84 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

SK 600 F/P/T ERGON 60 PPM 17040 x 1774 x 2450 mm 55.91 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
F= FILM ONLY
SK 800 F/P/T ERGON P= PAD + FILM 80 PPM 18040 x 1774 x 2450 mm 59.19 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

SK 502 F/P/T ERGON T= TRAY ONLY 100 PPM 17040 x 1974 x 2450 mm 55.91 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft
TRAY + FILM
SK 602 F/P/T ERGON 120 PPM 18040 x 1974 x 2450 mm 59.19 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft

SK 802 F/P/T ERGON 140 PPM 19040 x 1974 x 2450 mm 62.47 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft

SK 1200 F HS ERGON 150 PPM 18752,5 x 1774 x 2450 mm 61.52 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
F= FILM ONLY
SK 1202 F HS ERGON 0.33 L aluminium cans 300 PPM 18752,5 x 1974 x 2450 mm 61.52 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft
PAG. 16
Triple lane
SK1200F / SK1202F ERGON 450 PPM 18752,5 x 1974 x 2450 mm 61.52 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft

2
 Trayformers without film OUTPUT* APPROXIMATE SIZE**

TF 400 ERGON 40 PPM 6990 x 1774 x 2450 mm 22.93 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

TRAY ONLY

TF 800 ERGON 80 PPM 11500 x 1774 x 2450 mm 37.73 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

PAG. 18

Cardboard sleeve multipackers OUTPUT* APPROXIMATE SIZE**

MP 150 ERGON 150 PPM 9000 x 1774 x 2584 mm 29.53 x 5.82 x 8.48 ft

CARDBOARD
MP 150 BK ERGON 150 PPM 6000 x 1774 x 2584 mm 19.69 x 5.82 x 8.48 ft
SLEEVES

MP 300 ERGON 300 PPM PAG. 20 12000 x 1774 x 2584 mm 52.49 x 5.82 x 8.48 ft

Wrap-around casepackers OUTPUT* APPROXIMATE SIZE**

LWP 30 ERGON 30 PPM 7490 x 2124 x 2450 mm 24.57 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

CWP 40 ERGON 40 PPM 9690 x 2124 x 2450 mm 31,79 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

WP 400 ERGON WA CASE 40 PPM 11000 x 2124 x 2450 mm 36.09 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

WP 500 ERGON TRAY 50 PPM 11000 x 2124 x 2450 mm 36.09 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

WP 600 ERGON 60 PPM 12000 x 2124 x 2450 mm 39.37 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

PAG. 22
WP 800 ERGON 80 PPM 12000 x 2124 x 2450 mm 39.37 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

Combined packers OUTPUT* APPROXIMATE SIZE**

LCM 30 ERGON 30 PPM 13900 x 2124 x 2450 mm 45.6 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

LCM 40 ERGON 40 PPM 16100 x 2124 x 2450 mm 52.82 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

TRAY ONLY
CM 400 ERGON 40 PPM 18315 x 2124 x 2450 mm 60.09 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft
TRAY + FILM
CM 500 ERGON 50 PPM 18315 x 2124 x 2450 mm 60.09 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft
CASE
CM 600 ERGON 60 PPM 20540 x 2124 x 2450 mm 67.39 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

CM 800 ERGON 80 PPM 21540 x 2124 x 2450 mm 70.67 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

CM 400 FP ERGON 40 PPM 18315 x 2124 x 2450 mm 60.09 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

FILM ONLY
CM 500 FP ERGON PAD + FILM 50 PPM 18315 x 2124 x 2450 mm 60.09 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft
TRAY ONLY
CM 600 FP ERGON TRAY + FILM 60 PPM 20540 x 2124 x 2450 mm 67.39 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft
CASE PAG. 28
CM 800 FP ERGON 80 PPM 21540 x 2124 x 2450 mm 70.67 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

*Maximum output in packs per minute. The indicated output refers to 3x2 packs of 1.5 L stable containers. **The data relate to T models (if available)
Data here mentioned are subject to changes without any notice. 3
 ERGON SERIES

Features and benefits

NEW ERGON RANGE Slightly-rounded sliding safety guards Motorized products unscrambler at the machine’s inlet

For the new ERGON range of secondary packaging machines The new design entails more room inside the machine, which is Device made up of a group of oscillating guides which accurately
SMI has introduced innovative concepts in terms of ergonomics used for a more ergonomic and functional configuration of both convey loose containers toward the machine's inlet.
and modularity which have allowed to further increase the mechanical and electronic components. Furthermore, the doors Advantages: smooth feeding of the products to be packaged.
packers' flexibility and considerably facilitate their management are equipped with a safety deceleration device which, by means
and maintenance operations. The new ERGON series – from the of a buffer, ensures their soft, final closure.
Greek word érgon meaning “work” - is the outcome of a two- Advantages: easy access to inner machine's parts; highly safe
year R&D project wich led to notable enhancements concerning access for the operator.
the technical configurations featuring SMI secondary packaging
machines. Low energy consumption motors easy to be reached
Thanks to larger room inside the machine, made possible by the
rounded safety guards, motors can be installed externally on the edges
of the machine. Moreover, SMI packers are actuated only by brushless
motors (controlled by digital servo-drivers, which in most cases are
integrated into the motor), directly connected to transmission axles.
Advantages: motors and their components are easier to be accessed
for reactivation and maintenance operations; the absence of geared Products separation bars
motors entails more efficient and precise movements, reduced
energy dissipation, low noise level and wear of components. The pack formation
system is equipped with
products separation bars
made of thermoplastic
material or metal
ensuring a smooth and
constant production
process without abrupt
movements.
Advantages:
lower wear if compared
to metal bars, low machine's noise level, protection of fragile containers
(for example glass containers) and labels.

4
 Curved cardboard climb Film-tensioning system Multi-pitch configuration
The system is actuated by a piston, ensuring a constant film
The initial and final part of the cardboard climb is slightly curved, tensioning. SMI machines are
so as to ensure an easier transfer of the cardboard blank from arranged to control
the magazine to the work surface area. Advantages: this new solution enables to pass easily and quickly up to three different
from a packaging in single lane to a packaging in doble/triple lane.
Advantages: interruption-free packaging process. machine pitches,
without replacing
the mechanical
components. The
working parameters
of each pitch are
memorized in the
POSYC display; the mechanical setting of the product divider,
of the cardboard climb, of the tray/case former and of the film
wrapper is very easy, thanks to the coloured position indicators
installed on the chains.
Advantages: the dimension range of the products handled is one
of the widest on market, thanks to the possibility to pack a large
range of containers in a high number of configurations.
Direct drive film cutting device
User-friendly man-machine interface
Film unwinding by brushless motor SMI packers are equipped with a blade driven by a direct-drive
brushless motor enhancing the film cutting operation and The POSYC control
Highly-precise film unwinding thanks to a brushless motor for simplifying the motor's maintenance operations.
each film reel (except AFW/LSK/CSK/LCM). panel, which slides
Advantages: more precise film cutting operations; reduced on a track running
Advantages: the absence of mechanical reductions ensures more maintenance operations; low noise level; low energy dissipation; the whole length the
precision and low maintenance costs. easily accessible blade unit. machine (optional
on some models),
is equipped with an
extremely intuitive
interface, a touch
screen display,
diagnostic functions and real-time technical support.
Advantages: easy and efficient use of the machine also by low
experienced operators.

5
 SFP ERGON SERIES

UP TO 30 PPM

Stretch-film packers

The SFP series is composed of automatic machines to pack

already made bundles and loose containers made of plastic,
metal, carton or glass.
• Continuous packaging through a minimum 10-micron thick
stretch film.
• Stable and resistant packaging, thanks to the two film webs
applied in a criss-cross pattern. Packs in 1 x ... and 2 x … (short
side leading).
• Max. pack size 400 mm H x 400 mm L x 400 mm LS (Leading
Side) (according to the product).
• Min. Pack size 100 mm H x 200 mm L x 100 mm LS (Leading
Side) (according to the product).
SFP ERGON MODEL RANGE • Lower consumption of packaging material (-30/40 % compared
to traditional shrink wrappers).
• Low energy consumption, since the packer is not equipped with
SFP 30
a shrink tunnel.
• Great quality/price ratio.

6
The packaging process

SFP ERGON: energy saving

4 Since SFP packers have no heat-shrink tunnel, a

substantial saving in power consumption can be
3 achieved during the packaging operation.
2
Optimized electrical consumption of the motors
The new ICOS motors mounted on the SFP ERGON
are equipped with built-in digital servo-driver, with the
advantage of simplifying the machine wiring since the
servos are no longer installed in the electrical cabinet.
This new solution allows to generate less heat inside
1 the electrical cabinet; as a result, the air-conditioning
system is not required for temperatures up to 40 °C,
thus reducing the power consumption of the facility.

1 At the machine infeed, an oscillating unscrambler accurately 3 A high-speed film wrapper rotor with counterweigh, controlled by
lines up the loose containers carried by a conveyor belt featuring brushless motor, applies two film webs in a criss-cross pattern around the
low-friction chains made of thermoplastic material. In the pack group of containers in transit. The first reel wraps the group of containers
formation section, the containers are clustered in alternate motion in a clockwise direction, while the second one wraps it in a counter-
in the required format through a pneumatic device and electronically clockwise direction, thus realizing a resistant and long-lasting pack.
synchronized separating bars.
4 The machine is equipped with a film-cutting device with resistance-
2 The film unwinding is operated by brushless motors (one for heated vertical blade, controlled by a brushless motors. The 2-step
each of the two reels) for precise and continuous adjustment of the cutting operation is carried out at the front and back of the pack in
film tensioning (controlled by a progressive brake), which ensures transit through horizontal movements of the heated blade.
the constant tensioning of the film and allows quick and easy
changeover operations.

7
 AFW ERGON SERIES

UP TO 40 PPM

Low-medium speed shrink wrappers

The AFW ERGON series is composed of automatic shrink
wrapping machines to pack loose plastic, metal, cardboard or
glass containers featuring a rectangular/square bottom (also oval
or cylindrical by means of an ancillary device) and/or already
made packs. All AFW ERGON models are equipped with a 90°
product infeed conveyour and with a mechanical grouping system
AFW ERGON MODEL RANGE featuring a push-in device that slides on a brushless motor-driven
linear guide. Depending on the model chosen, they can make
packs in film only, cardboard pad + film, cardboard tray, cardboard
AFW 30 F AFW 30 P AFW 30 T tray + film. AFW packers achieve an output rate up to 40 packs per
minute, according to the machine model and the type of product
AFW 40 F AFW 40 P AFW 40 T to be handled. Pack collations can vary according to the container
shape, capacity and size; the most requested collations are: 2x2,
3x2, 4x3 and 6x4.

8
The packaging process

4 90° entry for briks, packs and unstable containers

The AFW (Angular Film Wrapper) ERGON series was designed

to provide users with an ad-hoc machine capable of packaging
rigid containers featuring a rectangular or square bottom, such
as briks, or already made packs/bundles in “pack-in-pack”
configurations. AFW shrink wrappers can be equipped with
3 optional accessories to pack cylindrical containers as well. To
smoothly and continuously process unstable or odd-shaped
containers such as paperboard briks the packaging machine
entry has to be laid at 90 degrees with respect to the product
1 infeed conveyour; such a configuration allows to prevent
hitches or jammings in the loose product flow.

1 An 90° product infeed conveyour, equipped with low-friction 3 In the trayformer, special mechanical devices fold the blank’s
chains made of thermoplastic material, carries loose containers front and rear flaps.
or already made packs to the pack formation zone, where the The side flaps are sprayed with hot melt glue and then folded,
containers are clustered in the required format through a thus forming the tray.
mechanical system made up of a pneumatic press and a product
push-in device that slides on a brushless motor-driven linear guide.
4 The unwinding of the film reel placed in the lower part of the
machine is controlled by a progressive brake, which ensures the
2 In P and T models, a corrugated cardboard pad or blank is film constant tension. Before the pack enters the shrinking tunnel,
picked from the blanks magazine by an alternate motion picker the film is wrapped around the container batch and overlapped at
composed of a group of vacuum suckers. The pad or the blank the base of the pack.
moves along the blank climb and gently places itself underneath
the group of products in transit with the long side leading.

9
 LSK ERGON SERIES

UP TO 40 PPM

Low-medium speed shrink wrappers

The LSK series is composed of automatic machines to pack
plastic, metal, cardboard or glass containers.
Depending on the model chosen, they can make packs in film
LSK ERGON MODEL RANGE only, cardboard pad + film, cardboard tray, cardboard tray + film.
LSK packers achieve an output rate up to 40 packs per minute
(40+40 in the double lane only film version), according to the
LSK 30 F machine model and the type of product to be handled.
LSK 40 F LSK 30 P LSK 30 T Pack collations can vary according to the container shape,
LSK 32 F LSK 40 P LSK 40 T capacity and size; the most requested collations are: 2x2, 3x2,
4x3 and 6x4.
LSK 42 F All LSK machines are equipped with a mechanical product-
grouping system and a manual change-over system.

10
The packaging process

4 LSK SF ERGON: Modular and compact structure

• very compact structure since the machine does

not have neither the cardboard magazine nor the
cardboard climb
3 • continuous cycle packaging system, by means of a
special pneumatic separator (press)
• high reliability of the packaging process
• high quality of the final pack
• film cutting blade activated by direct drive
brushless motor
• the packers from the LSK SF ERGON series achieve
an output rate up to 30 packs per minute in single
1
2 lane

1 At the machine infeed, an oscillating unscrambler accurately 3 In the trayformer, special mechanical devices fold the blank’s
lines up the loose containers carried by a conveyor belt featuring front and rear flaps.
low-friction chains made of thermoplastic material. In the pack The side flaps are sprayed with hot melt glue and then folded,
formation section, the containers are clustered in alternate thus forming the tray.
motion in the required format through a pneumatic device and
electronically synchronized separating bars (optional on LSK 30).
4 The unwinding of the film reel, placed in the lower part of
the machine, is controlled by a progressive brake, which ensures
2 In P and T models, a corrugated cardboard pad or blank is the film constant tension. The film joining operation when the reel
picked from the blank magazine by an alternate motion picker runs out takes place by means of a hand-operated sealing bar.
composed of a group of vacuum suckers. The pad or the blank Before the pack enters the shrinking tunnel, the film is wrapped
moves along the blank climb and gently places itself underneath around the container batch and overlapped at the base of the
the group of products in transit with the long side leading. pack.

11
 CSK ERGON SERIES

UP TO 50 PPM

Low-medium speed shrink wrappers

The CSK series is composed of automatic machines to pack
plastic, metal, cardboard or glass containers.
Depending on the model chosen, they can make packs in film only,
CSK ERGON MODEL RANGE cardboard pad + film, cardboard tray, cardboard tray + film.
CSK packers achieve an output rate up to 50 packs per minute
(50+50 in the double lane only film version), according to the
CSK 40 F machine model and the type of product to be handled.
CSK 50 F CSK 40 P CSK 40 T Pack collations can vary according to the container shape, capacity
CSK 42 F CSK 50 P CSK 50 T and size; the most requested collations are: 2x2, 3x2, 4x3 and 6x4.
All CSK machines are equipped with an electronic product-
CSK 52 F grouping system and a manual change-over system.

12
The packaging process

4
Fibreglass or metal oven chain

The shrinking tunnel of SMI shrink wrappers can be

supplied with a fibreglass chain (standard supply)
or with a metal chain (standard or optional supply
3 according to the machine model):
• the fiberglass retains the heat more efficiently,
resulting in an energy consumption reduction.
Moreover, the film hardly deposits on the fiberglass
• the metal chain releases more heat, therefore it
entails slightly higher energy consumption, but
ensures a better film seal under the package
1

1 At the machine infeed, an oscillating unscrambler accurately 3 In the trayformer, special mechanical devices fold the blank’s
lines up the loose containers carried by a conveyor belt featuring front and rear flaps.
low-friction chains made of thermoplastic material. The side flaps are sprayed with hot melt glue and then folded,
In the pack formation section, the containers are clustered in thus forming the tray.
the required format through electronically synchronized pins and
separation bars.
4 The unwinding of the film reel, placed in the lower part of the
machine, is controlled by a progressive brake, which ensures the
2 In P and T models, a corrugated cardboard pad or blank is film constant tension.
picked from the blank magazine by an alternate motion picker Before the pack enters the shrinking tunnel, the film is wrapped
composed of a group of vacuum suckers. The pad or the blank around the container batch and overlapped at the base of the
moves along the blank climb and gently places itself underneath pack.
the group of products in transit with the long side leading.

13
 ASW ERGON SERIES

UP TO 80 PPM

Medium speed shrink wrappers

The ASW series is composed of automatic machines for packing plastic,
metal, cardboard or glass containers with a cylindrical, oval or square/
rectangular bottom.
Depending on the model chosen, they can make packs in film only,
cardboard pad + film, tray only, cardboard tray + film.
The ASW packers can achieve an output rate up to 80 packs per minute,
ASW ERGON MODEL RANGE
according to the machine model and the product to be packed.
Pack collations can vary according to the container shape, capacity and
ASW 50 F ASW 50 P ASW 50 T
size. In general, the most requested collations are: 3x1, 3x2 and 4x3.
ASW 60 F ASW 60 P ASW 60 T
All ASW models are equipped with a single-lane 90° product infeed
conveyor and a compact structure that is easily adapted to the logistic ASW 80 F ASW 80 P ASW 80 T
end of line conditions.

14
The packaging process
4

Single-lane infeed for simple and quick format changeover

ASW series is characterized by a single-lane infeed; as

2 a consequence, a divider is not necessary to lane the
products. This enables to reduce the costs, as well as
the space occupied by the conveyor line. Furthermore,
the single-lane infeed offers the advantage of working
lots of different kinds of containers, with different
sizes, without having to have additional belt equipment.
It follows that format changeover is much faster and
easier, as there is no need to regulate the guides on the
3 different lanes.

1 A system with a single-lane infeed facilitates the correct laning of 3 In the tray former, special mechanical devices fold the blank's
the loose containers on the conveyor. In the section where the pack format front and rear flaps. The side flaps are sprayed with hot melt glue
is formed, a group of dividing bars group the containers in a linear and and then folded, thus forming the tray. The unwinding of the film is
continuous way; in this section a twin belt system separates the products controlled by brushless motors (one for each reel), that ensure the
according to the format in production through an electronic cam. precise and continuous adjustment of the film tensioning.
2 Then, thanks to the rotating infeed, loose products are pushed by
the single lane conveyor to the multi-lane conveyor. In P and T models, a 4 The film tensioning is controlled by a piston. When the operating
corrugated cardboard pad or blank is picked from the blank magazine (placed film reel is over, a manual sealing bar joins the films. Before the pack
underneath the infeed conveyor), by a rotary picker composed of two groups enters the shrink tunnel, the film is cut by a knife blade controlled by
of electrical vacuum suction cups. The pad or the blank moves along the direct-drive brushless motor, wrapped around the group of containers
cardboard ramp and places itself underneath the group of products in transit and overlapped on the bottom of the pack.
with the long side leading. The tray former operates in continuous motion.

15
 SK ERGON SERIES

UP TO 450 PPM

Medium-high speed shrink wrappers

The SK series is composed of automatic machines for packing SK ERGON MODEL RANGE
plastic, metal, cardboard or glass containers.
Depending on the model chosen, they can make packs in film only,
cardboard pad + film, tray only, cardboard tray + film. The SK series SK 500 F
SK 500 P SK 500 T
can achieve an output rate up to 450 packs per minute (on triple SK 600 F
lane model), depending on the machine model and on the product SK 600 P SK 600 T
SK 800 F
to be packaged. SK 800 P SK 800 T
Pack collations can vary according to the container shape, capacity SK 1200 HS F
and size. SK 502 F
In general, the most requested collations are: 2x2, 3x2, 4x3 and SK 502 P SK 502 T
SK 602 F
6x4. All SK models are equipped with an electronic product- SK 602 P SK 602 T
grouping system and are available in single, double and triple lane SK 802 F
SK 802 P SK 802 T
variants (optional) depending on the customer’s requirements. SK 1202 HS F
The SK/F models are equipped with automatic changeover.

16
The packaging process

4
Beehive packs
SMI's LSK and SK shrink wrappers can be equipped
with a dedicated device, which arranges the containers
(bottles or cans) in staggered alternating rows and
keeps them in this manner during the process in which
3 the pack is formed, thereby creating the characteristic
beehive collation.
This is a newly-devised packaging solution, which
offers considerable advantages in terms of reduced
production and palletizing costs since the latter can
take place without the insertion of an interlayer
between layers, ensuring the customer substantial
1 savings on the purchase of packaging materials.
This is possible thanks to the greater stability and
compactness of beehive packs, inside which the
containers are "jammed" into one another and where
2 gaps are minimized (contrary to what occurs in
traditional and perfectly rectangular packs).
All this allows space optimization on the pallet.

1 In the machine infeed, a group of guides accurately lines 3 In the trayformer, special mechanical devices fold the blank’s
up the loose containers carried by a conveyor belt featuring front and rear flaps.
low-friction chains made of thermoplastic material. In the pack The side flaps are sprayed with hot melt glue and then folded,
formation zone, the containers are clustered in the required format thus forming the tray.
through electronically synchronized dividing fingers and bars,
4 The unwinding of the film reels, placed in the lower part of the machine,
operating in continuous motion.
is controlled by a brushless motor, which ensures the film constant tensioning.
2 In P and T models, a corrugated cardboard pad or blank is The machine is equipped with two reels: one is operating, the other one
picked from the blank magazine by a rotary picker composed of keeps stopped. When the first reel ends, a manual sealing bar joins the films
two groups of vacuum suckers. The pad or the blank moves along of the two reels. To facilitate the operation of reel replacement, the machine
the blank climb and places itself underneath the group of products is outfitted with a special trolley. Before the pack enters the shrinking tunnel,
in transit with the long side leading. the film is cut by a knife equipped with motorised blade and then wrapped
around the group of containers and overlapped on the bottom of the pack.

17
 TF ERGON SERIES

UP TO 80 PPM

Trayformers without film

The TF series includes automatic machines for the packaging of plastic,

metal, cardboard and glass containers in cardboard trays without film.
Trays can be octagonal or rectangular, with walls measuring the
same height.
TF trayformers can achieve an output rate up to 80 packs per
minute, according to the machine model and the product to be
packaged. Pack collations can vary according to the container
shape, capacity and size; in general, the most requested collations TF ERGON MODELS RANGE
are: 2x2, 3x2, 4x3 and 6x4.
The TF800 model features an electronic grouping system (the
TF 400
system is mechanical for TF 400).
TF 800 trayformers can turn into SK shrink wrappers for the packaging TF 800
in film at any time, through the insertion of additional modules.

18
The packaging process

Trays for all needs

3 4
All TF models can pack products in rectangular (1) or
in octagonal trays (2).
Therefore, the end user can select the most suitable
solution for customizing, distributing and palletizing
its packages.

1
2

1 TF800 model: at the machine infeed, a group of guides accurately lines 3 In the trayformer, special mechanical devices fold the blank’s
up the loose containers or the packs carried by a conveyor belt featuring front and rear flaps.
low-friction chains made of thermoplastic material. In the pack formation The side flaps are sprayed with hot melt glue and then folded,
section, the containers are clustered in the required format through thus forming the tray.
electronically synchronized dividing rods, operating in continuous motion.
TF400 model: the packaging process takes place as described in points
1 and 2 of LSK series.
4 The packs coming out of the trayformer can be conveyed
2 A corrugated cardboard blank is picked from the blank magazine by either to the palletizer or directly to the storage area.
a rotary picker composed of two groups of electric suction cups. In the
TF 400 model the picker operates in alternate mode and is made up of a
group of vacuum suckers. The blank moves along the blank climb and gets
underneath the group of products in transit with the long side leading.

19
 MP ERGON SERIES

UP TO 300 PPM

MODEL RANGE Cardboard sleeve multipackers

The MP series includes automatic machines for the packaging

MP 150 of plastic, metal, cardboard and glass containers in overlapping
MP 150 BK cardboard sleeves. MP multipackers can achieve an output rate
MP 300 up to 300 packs per minute, depending on the machine model
and on the product to be packaged. Low or medium capacity
containers can be packed in OTT (Over The Top) or NT (Neck
Through) system. With unusually-shaped products, the pack can
be strengthened by adding a top/bottom retaining flap which
keeps the containers perfectly steady inside the cardboard sleeve.
Pack collations can vary according to the container shape and size;
in general, the most requested collations are: 1x3, 1x4, 2x2, 2x3 and
2x4. All MP models feature an electronic grouping system; the
change-over operation is manual (also available in the automatic
version as a paid accessory).

20
The packaging process

4
The RD divider

The RD divider is an optional device available on all

models equipped with the TR module; it rotates and
distributes the packs on multiple lanes. It is available
in the electronic and automatic version and can
3 handle both simple and complex patterns, with a
maximum inlet speed of 200 packs per minute. The
packs coming out of the machine in short side leading
can be turned by 90°, in order to change their leading
side from short to long.

2 “BF – Bottom Flap” module

All models with “BF” module are equipped with a

system which forms packs featuring containment
flaps at the bottom of the pack, preventing the leakage
of containers at the base of the pack.

1 On the machine's inlet conveyour belt, featuring low-friction 3 Dedicated mechanical devices fold down the two longest
chains made of thermoplastic material, the loose containers arrive sides of the cardboard blank; then, the pack bottom is sealed
already laned in 1 or 2 rows. with hot melt glue. The choice of a hot melt glue sealing instead
of a mechanical tucked-in closure ensures stiffer and steadier
2 In the pack formation section, the containers are clustered in packages.
the required format through electronically synchronized dividing
fingers, operating in continuous motion. At the same time, a
cardboard blank is picked from the blank magazine, placed in 4 Only in the models equipped with the “TR module –
the upper section of the machine, by a rotary picker operating in translating conveyor at the machine output”, the packs at the
alternate motion composed of a group of six vacuum suction cups machine outlet can be positioned on multiple lanes (from 1 to 6)
and placed upon the products in transit. before being conveyed to another packaging machine or directly
to the storage area.

21
 LWP ERGON SERIES

UP TO 30 PPM

Wrap-around case-packers

LWP series features automatic machines for packing plastic,

metal, cardboard or glass containers in corrugated cardboard
cases and/or trays without film.
Trays can be octagonal or rectangular, with same or different
height edges.
LWP wraparound packers run up to 30 packs per minute, depending
LWP ERGON MODEL RANGE on the product handled and on the packing pattern.
Different pack collations can be formed according to the
container’s shape, capacity and dimensions; the most popular
LWP 30 formats on the market are 2x3, 3x4 and 4x6.
LWP packers are equipped with a mechanical product-grouping
system and manual format changeover.

22
The packaging process

4
Fridge packs
3
SMI wraparound packers can pack bottles and cans
in pack formats specifically designed to fit into the
limited space offered by fridge compartments,
therefore named “fridge packs”.
Thanks to an innovative design, the box is fitted with
2 a special opening (engraved on the box itself) which
allows to pick from the pack only the bottles or cans
needed, leaving the remaining ones stored in the
fridge.
The box serves as a dispenser for the products
gathered in the pack.
1 Crucial for the realization of this pack is the use of
the kraft cardboard which, though it's thinner, ensures
a firm packaging.

1 At the machine infeed a group of guides lines up loose 3 Later on flap-folding devices fold first side flaps and then upper/
containers along a conveyor belt featuring low-friction chains made lower flaps on both the front and the back of the pack. A gun sprays a
of thermoplastic material. In the pack-forming unit products are thin layer of hotmelt glue on the flaps to ensure a perfect endurance
grouped in the chosen packing pattern by means of an alternate- of the box/tray.
motion pneumatic device.

4 At the machine outlet the case walls are pressed by

2 A sheet of corrugated cardboard is picked from the blank special guides.
magazine by an alternate-motion picker with vacuum suction cups; Such system ensures perfect and durable pack squaring, if
the carboard blank is then carried up along the blank ramp and compared to pressing systems with rotating chains, which
positioned under the incoming pack collation with short leading cannot provide the same quality standard.
side. The box/tray former operates in continuous motion with wrap-
around system.

23
 CWP ERGON SERIES

UP TO 40 PPM

Wrap-around case-packers

CWP series features automatic machines for packing plastic,

metal, cardboard or glass containers in corrugated cardboard
cases and/or trays without film.
Trays can be octagonal or rectangular, with same or different
height edges.
CWP wraparound packers run up to 40 packs per minute,
CWP ERGON MODEL RANGE depending on the product handled and on the packing pattern.
Different pack collations can be formed according to the
container’s shape, capacity and dimensions; the most popular
CWP 40 formats on the market are 2x3, 3x4 and 4x6.
CWP packers are equipped with an electronic product-grouping
system and manual format changeover.

24
The packaging process

3 Wrap-around technology vs. American carton

The wrap-around system provides the following benefits:
• it forms the case around the cluster of containers
to be packaged and automatically seals it, while the
American carton is formed separately, then filled with
containers and lastly sealed
2 • just a single machine is needed to get the packaging
operation completed, whereas the American carton
system needs three machines: the first one builds the
case, the second one drops the container inside it and
the third one seals it
1 • it allows achieving output rate up to 80 packs/minute,
far beyond the output rate of a similarly sized American
carton system
• fewer staff is necessary to run the machine and the
management and maintenance costs are lower than
those of a similarly performing American carton system

1 On the machine's inlet conveyour belt, featuring low-friction 3 In the tray/case former, the cardboard blank is folded and
chains made of thermoplastic material, a specific group of motorized wrapped around the products by means of special guides. The flap
oscillanting guides accurately lines up the loose containers moving folding devices fold the blank’s side flaps and then the top/bottom
towards the pack formation zone, where the containers are clustered flaps of both the front and back side of the pack. The hot melt
in the selected format through electronically synchronized fingers, glue sealing ensures a very high resistance of the pack.
operating in continuous motion.
2 A corrugated cardboard blank is picked from the blank magazine
(placed underneath the inlet conveyor), by a rotary picker operating in 4 At the machine outlet, the pack walls are pressed by special
alternate motion composed of a group of vacuum suction cups. The guides that guarantees a perfect and lasting squaring of the
carboard blank moves along the cardboard ramp and places itself cases. Such system ensures perfect and durable pack squaring, if
underneath the group of products in transit with the short side leading. compared to pressing systems with rotating chains, which cannot
The tray/case former features a continuous wrap-around system. provide the same quality standard.

25
 WP ERGON SERIES

UP TO 80 PPM

Wrap-around case-packers

The WP series includes automatic machines for the packaging of plastic,

metal, cardboard and glass containers in corrugated cardboard cases
and/or trays without film. The trays can be octagonal or rectangular,
with walls measuring either the same height or different heights.
MODEL RANGE The WP casepackers can achieve an output rate up to 80 packs
per minute, according to the machine model and to the product.
Pack collations can vary according to the container shape, capacity and
WP 400
size; in general, the most requested collations are: 2x3, 3x4 and 4x6.
WP 500 The blank magazine capacity of all WP models can be increased
WP 600 through additional modules. Moreover, all WP casepackers are
equipped with an electronic grouping system, manual format
WP 800
changeover and with the “Easy-Load” system to automatically load
the cardbord blank magazine.

26
The packaging process

5
Extra-large pack capability
SMI wrap-around casepackers of WP series can be
3 equipped to make form both standard-sized and extra-
4
large cardboard cases or trays as big as ¼ (400x600
mm) or 1/2 europallet (600x800 mm), the so called
pallet display.
This solution allows consistent cutbacks on operating
costs, if compared to existing systems composed of
1
two machines: one wraparaound packer to realize
standard 2x3, 3x4, 3x5 and 4x6 pack collations; and
one tray-packer to put up to 80 bottles in trays as big
as 1/4 or 1/2 europallet.
WP XL wraparound packers also ensure further
savings on costs thanks to optimisation of operational
and storage areas, lower consumption of packaging
2
materials and reduction of energy costs.

1 On the machine's inlet conveyour belt, featuring low-friction suction cups; then, the carboard blank is carried up along the
chains made of thermoplastic material, a specific group of motorized blank ramp and positioned under the incoming pack collation with
mm
oscillanting guides accurately lines up the loose containers moving short side leading. The tray/case former features a continuous 400 600
mm
towards the pack formation zone, where the containers are clustered wrap-around system.
in the selected format through electronically synchronized fingers, 4 In the tray/case former, the cardboard blank is folded and
operating in continuous motion. wrapped around the products by means of special guides. The flap
2 The new Easy-Load system automatically loads cardboard folding devices fold the blank’s side flaps and then the top/bottom
blanks into the dedicated blank magazine of the machine. The new flaps of both the front and back side of the pack. The hot melt glue
loading device is made up of a group of motorized mat-equipped sealing ensures a very high resistance of the pack.
conveyour belts on which the operator easily places the cardboard
blanks in uniform horizontal stacks. 5 At the machine outlet, the pack walls are pressed by special 600 mm
3
mm 800
A corrugated cardboard blank is picked from the blank guides that guarantees a perfect and lasting squaring of the cases.
magazine by a newly designed picker equipped with vacuum

27
 LCM ERGON SERIES

UP TO 40 PPM

Combined packers
LCM ERGON MODEL RANGE
LCM automatic machines combine in one system the functions provided
LCM 30 LCM 40 by wraparound packers and shrink wrappers, for the packaging of plastic,
metal, cardboard and glass containers in closed cases, on cardboard pad
+ film, on cardboard tray + film, and in cardboard tray only. Trays can be
octagonal or rectangular, with same or different height edges.
LCM packing machines run up to 40 packs per minute, depending on the
product handled and on the packing pattern.
Different pack collations can be formed according to the container’s
shape, capacity and dimensions; the most popular formats on market
are 2x3, 3x4 and 4x6 in closed boxes, 4x3 and 6x4 on tray+film, 3x2 and
4x3 in film only.
LCM packers are equipped with mechanical product-grouping system
and manual format changeover.

28
The packaging process

4
Versatile packs

Besides the cases with traditional sealing, the LCM,

CM, LWP and WP models can make cases with
joining flaps. Cases can be highly customized by
printing images on the 5 visible sides, thus becoming
an excellent vehicle of product marketing and
promotion, and provide as well a higher protection
of the case content from dust, insects, dirt, etc.
3

1) Traditional closure

1
2

2) Closure with
joining flaps

1 At the machine infeed a motorised oscillating sorter lines up 3 Depending on the packaging features, in the case/tray forming
loose containers along a conveyor belt featuring low-friction chains unit the cardboard blank is folded and wrapped around the products
made of thermoplastic material. by means of special guides.
In the pack-forming unit products are grouped in the chosen packing Later on flap-folding devices fold first side flaps and then upper/
pattern by means of an alternate-motion pneumatic device. lower flaps on both the front and the back of the pack.
Hot-glue sealing makes the case highly resistant.

2 In case of packaging in closed case, on pad or tray, a sheet 4 If set in the packaging program, the film is wrapped around the
of corrugated cardboard is picked from the blank magazine by an pack in transit and overlapped on its bottom and then enters the
alternate-motion picker with vacuum suction cups; the carboard shrink tunnel.
blank is then carried up along the blank ramp and positioned under The unwinding of film reels - positioned in the lower part of the
the incoming pack collation with short leading side (wrap-around machine – is adjusted by a progressive brake which provides
case) or long leading side (tray). constant film tensioning.

29
 CM ERGON SERIES

UP TO 80 PPM

Combined packers
CM ERGON MODEL RANGE
The CM series includes automatic machines gathering into a single unit
the functions of a wrap-around casepacker and of a shrink wrapper,
CM 400 CM 600 CM 400 FP CM 600 FP for the packaging of plastic, metal, cardboard or glass containers in
CM 500 CM 800 CM 500 FP CM 800 FP the following package types: cardboard case, cardboard tray + film and
cardboard tray only. CM FP models also make pad + film and film only
packs. Trays can be octagonal or rectangular, with walls measuring
either the same height or different heights. CM machines can achieve
an output rate up to 80 packs per minute, according to the machine
model, the type of product and the selected format. Pack collations can
vary according to the containers shape, capacity and size; in general, the
most requested collations are: 2x3, 3x4 and 4x6 for wrap-around cases
and 4x3 and 6x4 for tray + film packs. The blank magazine capacity
can be increased through additional modules. All CM packers feature an
electronic grouping system, manual format changeover and the “Easy-
Load” system to automatically load the cardbord blank magazine.

30
The packaging process

5 Now featuring also film only

A wide array of packaging solutions is now
available with SMI CM FP series.
CM machines are indeed designed to combine in
4 one versatile and flexible system the functions
provided by wraparound packers and shrink
wrappers.
3 A smart investment in a cost-cutting, space-saving
solution will result in top-level packages in film
only, on tray+film, on pad+film, on tray only, in
completely or partially closed box.
While the machine is working in “wraparound
case” or “tray only” mode, the shrinking tunnel and
the film wrapping unit are automatically disabled
by the machine control system.

1 2 CM packers are particularly suitable for production

lines frequently switching products and formats.
What’s more, Combi-packers can be easily
adjusted to handle new products and packing
patterns if required by marketing strategies.

1 On the machine's inlet conveyour belt, featuring low-friction chains made short side leading. The tray/case former features a continuous wrap-
of thermoplastic material, a specific group of motorized oscillanting guides around system. In the tray/case former, the cardboard blank is folded
accurately lines up the loose containers moving towards the pack formation and wrapped around the products by means of special guides.
zone, where the containers are clustered in the selected format through
electronically synchronized fingers, operating in continuous motion.
4 The flap folding devices fold the blank’s side flaps and then the top/
2 The new Easy-Load system automatically loads cardboard blanks bottom flaps of both the front and back side of the pack. The hot melt
into the dedicated blank magazine of the machine. The new loading glue sealing ensures a very high resistance of the pack. At the machine
device is made up of a group of motorized mat-equipped conveyour outlet, the pack walls are pressed by special guides that guarantees a
belts on which the operator easily places the cardboard blanks in uniform perfect and lasting squaring of the cases.
horizontal stacks.
3 In case of packagig in cases or trays, a corrugated cardboard blank 5 In case of packaging in cases or trays with film, the unwinding of
is picked from the blank magazine by a newly designed picker equipped the film reels, located in the lower part of the machine, is controlled by
with vacuum suction cups; then, the carboard blank is carried up along brushless motors, in order to ensure a constant tensioning of the film.
the blank ramp and positioned under the incoming pack collation with

31
 ST ERGON SERIES

Thermo-shrinking tunnel

The shrinking tunnels of the ERGON series feature state-of-the- Immediately after shrinking, the pack undergoes a cooling SMI shrinking tunnels are devised for an easy and safe access
art technical solutions which reduce energy consumption and process which, by means of a higher number of fans set at to the inner parts during cleaning and maintenance operations
offer the maximum environmental compatibility. regular intervals of one meter each, fix the pack's shape, aesthetic which, among other things, are much lower thanks to traditional
qualities and sturdiness to prevent deformations or damages systems.
They are characterized by innovative design and manufacturing
during the following packaging steps.
criteria, enabling the combination with a large range of packers The new shrinking tunnels of the ST ERGON series feature a
according to the output rate and the type of product handled. At the tunnel outlet a belt joins the tunnel with the conveyors; small switchboard positioned beneath the outlet belt.
this connection is ventilated so as to ensure the proper thermal
Thanks to an accurate analysis of the thermodynamic phenomena
transition of the pack.
generated by the shrinking process, the tunnel manages in an
efficient and homogeneous way the hot air flows on the whole The first section of the tunnel's belt is equipped with cleaning
surface of the pack, ensuring its high quality. brushes which remove the possible residual dirt.
In particular, in the new ST ERGON range air adjustments have
further increased, with the result of a more precise management
of heat flows.

32
Thermo-shrinking tunnel for bundles of cans

SMI SK packers can be equipped with a special technical solutions Methan-heated shrinking tunnel
shrinking tunnel, specifically designed for handling which dramatically
aluminium cans to be packed in film only. reduce heat loss. SMI LSK, SK, LCM and CM
packers can be equipped
The new tunnel for bundles of cans is fitted with a The amount of with a methan-heated
warm air distribution system which includes added air time each spends shrinking tunnel, as an
flows for the side shrinking of the packets in transit; inside the tunnel alternative to the traditional
in this way, the shrink film wrapping occurs in a more is also regulated oven, heated by means of
homogeneous and uniform way at all areas of the automatically by electrical resistances.
pack, allowing for the creation of flawless packages the machine control
system, which keeps Natural gas offers several
(no wrinkles and folds) even at high speeds.
it constant for all benefits, if compared to
processed formats. traditional fossil fuels:
The temperature inside the tunnel, controlled
electronically, is maintained, during the entire • its combustion is
working cycle, at the optimal levels established in If the speed of the smogless and pollution-
the production programme, thanks to newly-devised shrink wrapper must free;
vary depending on • it complies with
the selected pack current regulations
configuration, an appropriate device automatically on environmental
compensates the difference of shrink wrapper speed/ protection;
oven by adjusting the belt between the two modules; • it allows consistent cutbacks on energy bills in countries
this allows for high quality shrinkwrapped packs to be where gas is cheaper than electricity.
obtained, regardless of the format.
According to accurate tests performed by SMI engineers, in
The thermo-shrinking tunnel for bundles of cans is those countries where gas is available at convenient prices –
available for packaging operations in single, double or such as in Italy – the methan heated tunnel provides up to 40%
triple lane variants. saving on energy bills, if compared to traditional electrically-
heated tunnels.

33
 DV ERGON SERIES

Dividers

DV 250 S ERGON - DV 500 S ERGON series dividers

The distribution of the containers within a production line is made

possible by the dividers of the “DV 250 S” and “DV 500 S” series.
The DV dividers receive the loose products in single row, divide
them into several rows and lane them towards the secondary
packaging machines. At present, two models are available:
• alternating motion DV 250 S, with a maximum output of 250
containers per minute (*)
• continuous motion DV 500 S, with a maximum output of 600
containers per minute (*)
(*the outputs are referred to a ø 50 mm PET container).

Reliability and duration

SMI dividers are made of top-quality materials, ensuring

operating reliability and long-term duration. The use of wear-
resistant components minimizes the maintenance and cleaning
operations, thus reducing the total operating costs.

34
 ACCESSORIES

TS Tray Stacker

Tray Stacker Operation

After coming out of the trayforming unit of the packaging machine,
The NEW TS (Tray Stacker) stacks on two or more layers clusters
two or more layers of containers are stacked by a Cartesian axes
of plastic, metal, cardboard or glass containers either clustered in coordinate system. Before the pack enters the shrinking tunnel,
cardboard trays or pad or loose (this latter solution available only the film is wrapped around the products and overlapped at the
for fit-in type cans). base of the pack.
This device can be installed on SK shrink wrappers, on WP
casepackers and on CM combined packers.
It consists of an electronic stacking device operating in continuous
motion, which achieves an output rate up to 60 packs per minute
according to the machine model and to the product handled.
Pack collations can vary according to the container shape,
capacity and size; in general, the most requested collations are:
4x3 and 6x4.
It is available both for single and for double lane production.

35
 ACCESSORIES

EASY LOAD

Automatic loading of the cardboard blanks magazine working height as the

packer's infeed belt,
The innovative “Easy-Load” system allows the automatic loading rather than under it.
of the cardboard blanks magazine and features considerable
advantages from an operating and functional point of view; in In more detail, the new
fact, the operator can easily load the cardboard blanks, stacked system patented by SMI
horizontally in uniform groups, because the is made up of a series
feeding belt of the cardboard blanks of conveyor belts, fitted
magazine is positioned with motorized
at the same rollers which feed
the packer's cardboard blanks magazine; the cardboard
blank stacks are carried on these belts up to the area in
which they are translated and then continue up to the
collection system at case/shrink packer infeed.
Thanks to specific sensors, both the disposition and
feed of the cardboard
blanks on the conveyor
belts fitted with
motorized rollers and
their loading into the
packer's magazine is, in
fact, fully automated.

36
 ACCESSORIES

PID SBP®
Partitions inserting device

Stretched board pre-assembled partition inserting device Advantages Operation

Compared to the traditional inserting systems of cardboard non- A mechanical arm equipped with vacuum suction cups picks
The PID SBP® inserts stretched preassembled partitions, the PID SBP® allows to: a stretched board pre-assembled partition from its magazine,
board pre-assembled partitions into opens it and lowers it between the products which have just
• reduce the partition purchasing cost by about 20% and the
cardboard cases, in order to protect been grouped in the required pack collation.
partition storage volume by at least 60%;
fragile products (such as glass Finally, a cardboard blank is wrapped around the products by
containers) and save their labels from • have a more compact machine, since both the partition
means of special guides, thus forming a case.
abrasions. magazine and the Partition Inserting Device are mounted on
the top of the machine; therefore, the machine dimensions are
This device can be installed on the WP the same as those of a conventional casepacker;
series’ wrap-around casepackers and • speed up the partition inserting operation and the magazine
on the CM series’ combined packers. loading time, since the partitions are already pre-assembled;
• reduce the effects on the partitions of humidity and climate
The PID SBP® and the partition magazine are situated at the
changes.
machine infeed, above the pack formation unit.
The maximum output is 40 packs/minute for 1-head model and
60 packs/minute for 2-head models.

37
 ACCESSORIES

PSHA

Pre-shrinking handle applicator loaded on automatically-locking mandrels to be then attached

onto the heat-shrinking film surface.
SK ERGON series shrink wrappers can be equipped with a PSHA The PSHA handle applicator is perfectly synchronised with
(Pre-Shrinking Handle Applicator) automatic handle applicator to the packaging machine on which it is installed; the latter sets
apply handles onto heat-shrinking film before packs are formed automatically in stand-by mode when the handle reel is used up.
and enter the heat-shrinking tunnel. Two reels can be mounted, one in operation and the other one
This optional device is an advantageous solutions for those who in stand-by (in dual lane productions four reels are installed: two
don't have enough room to install a stand-alone handle applicator in operation and two in stand-by); in such a case, a photoeye
downstream the packer and the conveyor belts connecting the detects when the reel in operation is running out of handles and
two machines. turns on an automatic splicing device that joins together the
The PSHA handle applicator is mounted on the outer edge of edge of the exhausted tape reel with the edge of the stand-by
SK ERGON shrink wrappers and, according to the machine's tape reel, so as to prevent breakdowns in the packaging process.
configuration, can be mounted on the operator side or on both The adhesive handles are precisely applied onto the heat-shinking
sides in case of dual lane operations. film, so that they keep in the right
It matches adhesive tape with a non-adhesive central support position on the heat-shrunk
(a handle made of paper or plastic), thus composing an packs moving out of the
uninterrupted string of handles which, once wound on a reel, is tunnel.
The operator panel of
the PSHA allows direct
modification of the
machine parameters,
real-time monitoring of
the machine state and
production data transfer
to the user's control system
through MODBUS TCP
protocol on Ethernet wire.
The electrical cabinet is
mounted on the top of the
handle applicator.

38
 ACCESSORIES

EASY OPEN
Film welding device by heated blade
Device for the easy opening of shrinkfilm packs

SMI customers can now upgrade their SK and CM packers with an The Easy Open system can be installed both on SK shrink
innovative film welding device. wrappers and on CM combined packers.
The “film welding device by heated blade” joins the edge of the It consists of a device piercing the film during the cutting
film reel about to end with the beginning of the new reel while operation, in order to create the required mark.
the machine is running, with no need to stop production. It can pierce two types of marks and is available both for single
The machine slows down and the film (printed or neutral and for double lane productions.
with reference mark) is automatically joined; the machine is
immediately back to running at full pace.
The new system allows dramatic cuts on energy and maintenance Advantages
costs compared to traditional hot sealing method, as there are Thanks to the Easy Open system, the customer’s level of
no more sealing rollers to be kept at a consistent temperature. satisfaction can be remarkably improved, because of the pack’s
The sealing precision of printed film or neutral film with reference easier opening. Moreover, this application does not require any
mark is higher, with +/-10mm margin from the reference mark. specific packaging material and, therefore, it is possible to make
The "film welding device by heated blade" can handle also no- eye-catching packs without additional costs.
collant film. The pack can be opened easily and safely by finger pressure
onto a pre-scored opening.

39
 Changeover

Simple and quick transfer Automatic changeover of inlet guides

from a pack to another.
SMI packers can be
SMI packers are the ideal equipped with an automatic
solution for the packaging of adjustment device for
a wide range of products in product inlet guides, which
several pack collations. improves and optimises
Thanks to a very quick changeover operations.
change-over procedure, it is
really easy to change the pack format and immediately re-start The system features DC
the production. motors driven by the control
The operating parameters of each pack are stored in the POSYC’s PC, which ensure high
memory; the operator can select the required format directly precision of movement and
from the touch-screen display. shorter changeover times
The mechanical adjustment of the machine components might for adjusting infeed guides according to the product parameters.
require the operator’s manual intervention, depending on the Thanks to the application of this optional device, combined with
packer model and on the product to be packaged. the automatic adjustment system featured as a standard by the
On machine models with the manual change-over system, the dividing/grouping module, the operator can easily switch formats
operator can easily arrange the machine for the new product from the control panel touch-screen display with virtually no
collation packaging, by means of counting devices and hand- manual intervention.
cranks for the guides’ adjustment.
On machine models with automatic change-over system, the
machine is electronically arranged for the packaging of the new
format by means of brushless motors; in most cases, no tool or
operator’s intervention are needed.
The change-over operation simply consists in the selection of the
new format from the POSYC’s touch-screen display.
In order to further simplify the shift from a small pack to a
large pack or vice versa, SMI packers are set to control up to
three different machine pitches, identified by coloured position
indicators installed on the chains.

40
 “USER-FRIENDLY” AUTOMATION

SMI exclusively manufactures hi- devices: MARTS (process controller), POSYC (man- SMI automation and control solutions ensure:
tech packaging machines, featuring machine interface), ICOS (integrated digital servodriver for
modular design, operating flexibility brushless motors, except SK and WP), dGATE and aGATE • High outputs and high quality packs.
and high energy efficiency, thanks (remote IP65 I/O digital/analogic modules). The MARTS is • Constant keeping of control parameters during the whole
to fully automatic processes, a PAC (Programmable Automation Controller), based on production cycle.
electronically controlled drive shafts an industrial PC, which can be programmed in IEC61131 • Low machine noise.
and field bus wiring. The hardware languages. The ICOS servodrivers and the dGATE/aGATE • Direct control of the machine-serving conveyors, without
and software components are open I/O modules are connected to the PAC via SERCOS. The additional PLC.
and modular, complying with the EC POSYC is a control PC with IP 65 touch screen, based on • User-friendly technology and easy maintenance.
regulations and relying upon proven a fanless PC with solid state drives. • Automatic warning on the operator panel’s display of
standards of the industrial field and of programmed maintenance operations to be carried out.
the packaging sector: OMAC guidelines, • Quick changeover.
SERCOS, PROFIBUS, IEC61131, OPC, Industrial PC, Linux. As • Possibility of programming machine pitch and drive shafts movement.
a result, referring to guide lines of OMAC (Open Modular • Machine manuals available through the operator panel’s memory.
Architecture Controls) and to the relevant work group for • Machine performance monitoring and down-times analysis
the packaging sector (OPW= Omac Packaging Controls), (Pareto diagram).
SMI machines can guarantee an easy integration with the • OPC or MODBUS/TPC connection for production data collection.
other machines in the line, a user-friendly technology and • Tele-assistance by phone or by the internet.
the safeguard over time of the capital invested. Moreover, • Easy back up of installation parameters.
SMI systems are compliant with the technical requirements • Easy updating of the employed solutions.
of Industry 4.0 and IoT (Internet of Things) technologies, • POSYC’s interchangeability with compatible PC Panels.
which allow to easily and effectively run production lines • COSMOS’ interchangeability with compatible SERCOS PACK
within a “Smart Factory”, even remotely through mobile PROFILE servodrivers.
devices. The automation and control of the machine are • Access to the operator interface by means of password, pre-
managed by the MotorNet System® which, as far as the arranged USB key and/or biometric fingerprint USB key.
hardware is concerned, is composed of the following

41
 Market segments
• still and carbonated mineral water SFP ERGON AFW ERGON LSK ERGON CSK ERGON ASW ERGON
• carbonated soft drinks max 30 ppm max 40 ppm max 40 ppm max 50 ppm max 80 ppm
• tea and energy drinks
• fruit juices
• beer, wine and spirits • 4-way infeed with product
• 4-way infeed with manual • 4-way infeed with manual • 4-way infeed with manual
inserter at 90° sliding on • Single-lane 90º product
• milk, yoghurt and milk-based products guides + oscillating device guides + oscillating device guides + oscillating device
a linear guide and driven infeed conveyor
• food and pet food to line up loose containers to line up loose containers to line up loose containers
by a brushless motor
• edible oil
• detergents, chemicals and pharmaceuticals
• Product separation by • Product separation
• Product separation by • Product separation by • Product separation
pneumatic press + 90° by electronically-
Containers suitable pneumatic press pneumatic press thorugh twin belt system
inserter synchronized push fingers
to packaging
• bottles
• Vertical cardboard blank • Vertical cardboard blank • Vertical cardboard blank • Vertical cardboard blank • Ergonomic cardboard
• cans
magazine magazine magazine magazine magazine
• jars
• tins
• Reciprocating cardboard • Reciprocating cardboard • Reciprocating cardboard • Reciprocating cardboard
• cartons • Rotary cardboard blank picker
blank picker blank picker blank picker blank picker
• other stiff containers
• Manually-phased • Manually-phased • Manually-phased • Manually-phased • Automatically-phased
tray-forming unit tray-forming unit tray-forming unit tray-forming unit tray-forming unit

• Film unwinding controlled

• Film unwinding controlled • Film unwinding controlled • Film unwinding controlled • Film unwinding controlled
by the brushless reel-
by the cutting blade motor by progressive brake by the cutting blade motor by the cutting blade motor
holder motor

• Manual adjustment • Manual adjustment • Manual adjustment • Manual adjustment • Automatic film winder
of the film winder of the film winder of the film winder of the film winder adjustment

• Posyc 7” fixed • Posyc 7” fixed • Posyc 7” fixed • Posyc 15” sliding • Posyc 15” sliding

• Standard double • Standard brushless,

• Standard reel-holder • Standard reel-holder • Standard reel-holder
reel-holder double reel-holder

42
 SK ERGON LWP ERGON CWP ERGON WP ERGON LCM ERGON CM ERGON CM FP ERGON
max 150 ppm max 30 ppm max 40 ppm max 80 ppm max 40 ppm max 80 ppm max 80 ppm

• 4-way infeed with • Packaging:wrap-around • Packaging:wrap-around • Packaging:wrap-around

• Packaging: wrap-around • Packaging: wrap-around • Packaging: wrap-around
automatic guides + device cases, tray only and tray cases, tray only and tray cases, tray only, tray+film,
case and tray only case and tray only case and tray only
to line up loose containers + film + film pad+film and film only

• Product separation • Infeed with manual guides • Infeed with manual • Infeed with automatic • Infeed with manual • Infeed with automatic • Infeed with automatic
by electronically- + oscillating clustering guides + oscillating guides + oscillating guides + oscillating guides + oscillating guides + oscillating
synchronized push fingers guide device clustering guide device clustering guide device clustering guide device clustering guide device clustering guide device

• Vertical/optional horizontal • 3 way product infeed • 4 way product infeed • 4 way product infeed • 3 or 4 way product infeed • 4 way product infeed • 4 way product infeed
Easy-Load magazine management management management management management management

• Rotary cardboard blank picker • Alternate cardboard blank picker • Alternate cardboard blank picker • Vertical picker with • Alternate cardboard blank picker • Vertical picker with • Vertical picker with
suction cups suction cups suction cups

• Automatically-phased • Tray former with • Tray former with • Tray former with • Tray former with manual • Tray former with • Tray former with
tray-forming unit manual phasing manual phasing automatic phasing phasing automatic phasing automatic phasing

• Film unwinding controlled • Product separation:

• Pneumatic press for • Electronically synchronised • Electronically synchronised pneumatic press • Electronically synchronised • Electronically synchronised
by the brushless reel-
product separation pegs for product separation pegs for product separation or electronically pegs for product separation pegs for product separation
holder motor
synchronised pegs

• Automatic film winder • Horizontal “Easy-Load” • Horizontal “Easy-Load” • Horizontal “Easy-Load”

• Vertical blank magazine • Vertical blank magazine • Vertical blank magazine
adjustment magazine magazine magazine

• Posyc 15” sliding • Posyc 7” fixed • Posyc 15” sliding • Posyc 15” sliding • Posyc 15” sliding • Posyc 15” sliding • Posyc 15” sliding

• Possible PID option • Possible PID option • Possible PID option • Possible PID option • Possible PID option
• Standard brushless,
– device for inserting – device for inserting – device for inserting – device for inserting – device for inserting
double reel-holder
cavities cavities cavities (LCM 40) cavities cavities

43
www.smigroup.it

SMI S.p.A.
Via Carlo Ceresa, 10
I-24015 San Giovanni Bianco (BG)

DP010251
Tel.: +39 0345 40.111
Fax: +39 0345 40.209
E-mail: info@smigroup.it