AUTOMATIC PACKERS

ERGON
 Shrinkwrappers OUTPUT* DIMENSIONS**

LSK 30 F ERGON 30 PPM 8900 x 1774 x 2450 mm 29.2 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

FILM ONLY
LSK 40 F ERGON 40 PPM
PAG. 6 9820 x 1774 x 2450 mm 32.22 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

LSK 30 P ERGON 30 PPM 8900 x 1774 x 2450 mm 29.2 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

PAD + FILM
LSK 40 P ERGON 40 PPM
PAG. 6 9820 x 1774 x 2450 mm 32.22 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

LSK 30 T ERGON 30 PPM 10400 x 1774 x 2450 mm 34.12 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

TRAY ONLY

LSK 40 T ERGON
TRAY + FILM
40 PPM
PAG. 6 11320 x 1774 x 2450 mm 37.14 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

CSK 40 F ERGON 40 PPM 9980 x 1774 x 2450 mm 32.74 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

FILM ONLY
CSK 50 F ERGON 50 PPM
PAG. 8 11480 x 1774 x 2450 mm 37.66 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

CSK 40 P ERGON 40 PPM 9980 x 1774 x 2450 mm 32.74 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

PAD + FILM
CSK 50 P ERGON 50 PPM
PAG. 8 11480 x 1774 x 2450 mm 37.66 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

CSK 40 T ERGON 40 PPM 11480 x 1774 x 2450 mm 37.66 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

TRAY ONLY

CSK 50 T ERGON
TRAY + FILM
50 PPM
PAG. 8 12980 x 1774 x 2450 mm 42.59 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

SK 400 F ERGON 40 PPM 12315 x 1774 x 2450 mm 40.4 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft

SK 500 F ERGON 50 PPM 13315 x 1774 x 2450 mm 43.68 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
SK 600 F ERGON 60 PPM 14540 x 1774 x 2450 mm 47.7 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
SK 800 F ERGON FILM ONLY 80 PPM 15540 x 1774 x 2450 mm 50.98 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
SK 502 F ERGON 100 PPM 14540 x 1974 x 2450 mm 47.7 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft
SK 602 F ERGON 120 PPM 15540 x 1974 x 2450 mm 50.95 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft
SK 802 F ERGON 140 PPM 16540 x 1974 x 2450 mm 54.27 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft
SK 1200 F HS ERGON FILM ONLY 150 PPM 18752,5 x 1774 x 2450 mm 61.52 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
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. 10
SK1200F / SK1202F ERGON Triple lane 450 PPM 18752,5 x 1974 x 2450 mm 61.52 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft
SK 400 P ERGON 40 PPM 12315 x 1774 x 2450 mm 40.4 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
SK 500 P ERGON 50 PPM 13315 x 1774 x 2450 mm 43.68 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
SK 600 P ERGON 60 PPM 14540 x 1774 x 2450 mm 47.7 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
SK 800 P ERGON PAD + FILM 80 PPM 15540 x 1774 x 2450 mm 50.98 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
SK 502 P ERGON 100 PPM 14540 x 1974 x 2450 mm 47.7 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft
SK 602 P ERGON 120 PPM 15540 x 1974 x 2450 mm 50.95 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft
PAG. 10
SK 802 P ERGON 140 PPM 16540 x 1974 x 2450 mm 54.27 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft
SK 500 T ERGON 50 PPM 15815 x 1774 x 2450 mm 51.89 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
SK 600 T ERGON 60 PPM 17040 x 1774 x 2450 mm 55.91 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
SK 800 T ERGON TRAY ONLY 80 PPM 18040 x 1774 x 2450 mm 59.19 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
SK 502 T ERGON TRAY + FILM 100 PPM 17040 x 1974 x 2450 mm 55.91 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft
SK 602 T ERGON 120 PPM 18040 x 1974 x 2450 mm 59.19 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft
PAG. 10
SK 802 T ERGON 140 PPM 19040 x 1974 x 2450 mm 62.47 x 6.48 x 8.04 ft

2
Trayformers without film OUTPUT* DIMENSIONS**

TF 400 ERGON 40 PPM 7150 x 1774 x 2450 mm 23.46 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. 12

Cardboard sleeve multipackers OUTPUT* DIMENSIONS**

MP 150 ERGON 150 PPM 13000 x 1774 x 2450 mm 42.65 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
CARDBOARD

SLEEVES
MP 300 ERGON 300 PPM 16000 x 1774 x 2450 mm 52.49 x 5.82 x 8.04 ft
PAG. 14

Wrap-around casepackers OUTPUT* DIMENSIONS**

LWP 30 ERGON 30 PPM 7490 x 2123 x 2450 mm 24.57 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

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

WA CASE
WP 500 ERGON 50 PPM 11000 x 2124 x 2450 mm 36.09 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft
TRAY
WP 600 ERGON 60 PPM 12000 x 2124 x 2450 mm 39.37 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft
PAG. 16
WP 800 ERGON 80 PPM 12000 x 2124 x 2450 mm 39.37 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

Combined packers OUTPUT* DIMENSIONS**

LCM 30 ERGON 30 PPM 13900 x 2123 x 2450 mm 45.6 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft
FILM ONLY
(CM SERIES)
CM 400 ERGON 40 PPM 18315 x 2124 x 2450 mm 60.09 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft
PAD + FILM
CM 500 ERGON 50 PPM 18315 x 2124 x 2450 mm 60.09 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft
TRAY ONLY

CM 600 ERGON TRAY + FILM 60 PPM 20540 x 2124 x 2450 mm 67.39 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

CM 800 ERGON
CASE
80 PPM
PAG. 20 21540 x 2124 x 2450 mm 70.67 x 6.97 x 8.04 ft

Market segments beer, wine and spirits Containers suitable to packaging

still and carbonated mineral water milk, yoghurt and milk-based products bottles cartons
carbonated soft drinks food and pet food cans other stiff containers
tea and energy drinks edible oil jars
fruit juices detergents, chemicals and pharmaceuticals tins

*Maximum output in packs per minute. The indicated output refers to 3x2 packs of 1.5 L stable containers. **Approximate length x width x height
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 (driven by digital servo-drivers) directly
connected to transmission axles.
Advantages: motors and their components are easier to be accessed
for reactivation and maintenance operations; the absence of geared Separation bars made of thermoplastic material
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
(except LSK/LWP)
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 LSK/CSK). 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 LSK series), 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
 LSK ERGON SERIES

UP TO 40 PPM

Low-medium speed shrinkwrappers

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
only, cardboard pad + film, cardboard tray, cardboard tray + film.
LSK packers achieve an output rate up to 40 packs per minute,
LSK ERGON MODEL RANGE according to the machine model and the type of product to be
handled.
Pack collations can vary according to the container shape,
LSK 30 F LSK 30 P LSK 30 T capacity and size; the most requested collations are: 2x2, 3x2,
LSK 40 F LSK 40 P LSK 40 T 4x3 and 6x4.
All LSK machines are equipped with a mechanical product-
grouping system and a manual change-over system.

6
The packaging process

4 Modular and compact structure

SMI machines are designed according to advanced principles

of module-based assembly and feature interchangeable
mechanical and electronic components, which ensure down-
time reduction during technical interventions or planned
3 maintenance, as well as the optimization of spare parts use.

1
2

Wide operating flexibility

SMI machines can package a wide range of products in several

pack collations, so as to meet the end user’s requirements.
Each machine can be equipped with additional devices,
which increase its basic functions and ensure a high level of
customization of the final package.

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 a pneumatic device operating in
alternate motion.
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.
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.

7
 CSK ERGON SERIES

UP TO 50 PPM

Low-medium speed shrinkwrappers

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,
cardboard pad + film, cardboard tray, cardboard tray + film.
CSK packers achieve an output rate up to 50 packs per minute,
CSK ERGON MODEL RANGE according to the machine model and the type of product to be
handled.
Pack collations can vary according to the container shape, capacity
CSK 40 F CSK 40 P CSK 40 T and size; the most requested collations are: 2x2, 3x2, 4x3 and 6x4.
CSK 50 F CSK 50 P CSK 50 T All CSK machines are equipped with an electronic product-
grouping system and a manual change-over system.

8
The packaging process

4
Fibreglass or metal oven chain

The shrinking tunnel of SMI shrinkwrappers can be

supplied with a fibreglass chain (standard supply) or
with a metal chain (optional supply):
3
• 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
1 ensures a better film seal under the package

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.

9
 SK ERGON SERIES

UP TO 450 PPM

Medium-high speed shrinkwrappers

SK ERGON MODEL RANGE
The SK series is composed of automatic machines for packing
plastic, metal, cardboard or glass containers.
SK 500 F
Depending on the model chosen, they can make packs in film only, SK 400 P
cardboard pad + film, tray only, cardboard tray + film. The SK series SK 400 F SK 500 T
SK 500 P
can achieve an output rate up to 450 packs per minute (on triple SK 600 F SK 600 T
lane model), depending on the machine model and on the product SK 600 P
SK 800 F SK 800 T
to be packaged. SK 800 P
Pack collations can vary according to the container shape, capacity SK 1200 HS F
and size. SK 502 F SK 502 T
In general, the most requested collations are: 2x2, 3x2, 4x3 and SK 502 P
SK 602 F SK 602 T
6x4. All SK models are equipped with an electronic product- SK 602 P
grouping system and are available in single, double and triple lane SK 802 F SK 802 T
SK 802 P
variants (optional) depending on the customer’s requirements. SK 1202 HS F
The SK/F models are equipped with automatic changeover.

10
The packaging process

4
Beehive packs
SMI's LSK and SK shrinkwrappers 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 P and T models, a corrugated cardboard pad or blank is 3 In the trayformer, special mechanical devices fold the blank’s
picked from the blank magazine by a rotary picker composed of front and rear flaps.
two groups of electric suction cups. The pad or the blank moves The side flaps are sprayed with hot melt glue and then folded,
along the blank climb and places itself underneath the group of thus forming the tray.
products in transit with the long side leading. The functioning of
4 The unwinding of the film reels, placed in the lower part of the machine,
the tray former is continuous.
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.

11
 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 trayformers can turn into SK shrinkwrappers for the packaging TF 800
in film at any time, through the insertion of additional modules.

12
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 3 In the trayformer, special mechanical devices fold the blank’s
accurately lines up the loose containers or the packs carried by a front and rear flaps.
conveyor belt featuring low-friction chains made of thermoplastic The side flaps are sprayed with hot melt glue and then folded,
material. In the pack formation section, the containers thus forming the tray.
are clustered in the required format through 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
either to the palletizer or directly to the storage area.
2 A corrugated cardboard blank is picked from the blank magazine
by a rotary picker composed of two groups of electric suction
cups. The blank moves along the blank climb and gets underneath
the group of products in transit with the long side leading.

13
 MP ERGON SERIES

UP TO 300 PPM

Cardboard sleeve multipackers

MODEL RANGE
The MP series includes automatic machines for the packaging
MP 150 of plastic, metal, cardboard and glass containers in overlapping
cardboard sleeves.
MP 300
MP multipackers can achieve an output rate 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.

14
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 300 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 At the machine infeed, a group of guides smoothly lines up 3 A mechanical device folds down the two longest sides of
the loose containers carried by a conveyor belt featuring low- the cardboard blank; then, the pack bottom is sealed with hot
friction chains made of thermoplastic material. melt glue.
The choice of a hot melt glue sealing instead of a mechanical
tucked-in closure ensures stiffer and steadier packages.
2 In the pack formation section, the containers are clustered in
the required format through electronically synchronized dividing
fingers, operating in continuous motion. 4 In the models equipped with the “TR module – translating
At the same time, a cardboard blank is placed upon the products conveyor at the machine output”, the packs at the machine
in transit. outlet can be positioned on multiple lanes (from 1 to 7) by means
of translating plates, before being conveyed to another packaging
machine or directly to the storage area.

15
 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.

16
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.

17
 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
MODEL RANGE measuring either the same height or different heights.
The WP casepackers can achieve an output rate up to 80 packs
per minute, according to the machine model and to the product.
WP 400
Pack collations can vary according to the container shape, capacity and
WP 500 size; in general, the most requested collations are: 2x3, 3x4 and 4x6.
WP 600 The blank magazine capacity of all WP models can be increased
through additional modules. Moreover, all WP casepackers are
WP 800
equipped with an electronic grouping system and automatic
format changeover.

18
The packaging process

4 Extra-large pack capability

3
SMI WP wraparound packers now feature also XL
(eXtra Large) models, which can form both standard-
sized and extra-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
2 costs, if compared to existing systems composed of
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
materials and reduction of energy costs.
1

1 At the machine infeed, a group of guides smoothly lines up 3 The flap folding devices fold the blank’s side flaps and then
mm
the loose containers carried by a conveyor belt featuring low- the top/bottom flaps of both the front and back side of the pack. 400 600
mm
friction chains made of thermoplastic material. The hot melt glue sealing ensures a very high resistance of the
In the pack formation zone, the containers are clustered in the pack.
required format through electronically synchronized dividing bars,
operating in continuous motion.
4 At the machine outlet, the pack walls are pressed by special
guides.
2 A corrugated cardboard blank is picked from the blank magazine This system guarantees a perfect and lasting squaring of the
by a vacuum-free picker with rubberized chains; it moves along the cases, unlike rotary chain pressing systems which cannot provide
blank climb and gets underneath the group of products in transit with the same quality level. 600 mm
the short side leading. In the tray/case former, the cardboard blank is
mm 800

folded and wrapped around the products by means of special guides.

19
 LCM ERGON SERIES

UP TO 30 PPM

Combined packers
LCM ERGON MODEL RANGE
LCM automatic machines combine in one system the functions provided
by wraparound packers and shrinkwrappers, for the packaging of plastic,
LCM 30 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 30 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.

20
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.

21
 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 shrinkwrapper, for
CM 400 CM 600 the packaging of plastic, metal, cardboard or glass containers in the
CM 500 CM 800 following package types: cardboard case; cardboard pad + film, cardboard
tray + film; cardboard tray only and in film only.
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 and
automatic format changeover.

22
The packaging process
4
Now featuring also film only
A wide array of packaging solutions is now
available with SMI CM series.
CM machines are indeed designed to combine
in one versatile and flexible system the
functions provided by wraparound packers and
shrinkwrappers.
A smart investment in a cost-cutting, space-saving
3 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.
2 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 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 At the machine infeed, a group of guides smoothly lines up 3 In the tray/case former, the cardboard blank is folded and
the loose containers carried by a conveyor belt featuring low- wrapped around the products by special guides.
friction chains made of thermoplastic material. Then, the flap folding devices fold the blank’s side flaps and
In the pack formation section, the containers are clustered in the afterwards the top/bottom flaps of both the front and back
required format through electronically synchronized dividing bars, side of the pack. The hot melt glue sealing ensures a very high
operating in continuous motion. resistance of the pack.
2 In case of packaging in closed box, on pad or tray, a corrugated 4 In case of packaging in film only, or whenever required, film is
cardboard blank is picked from the blank magazine by a vacuum- wrapped around and overlapped under the pack in transit towards
free picker with rubberized chains; it moves along the blank climb the shrinking tunnel.
and gets underneath the group of products in transit. The unwinding of the film reels, located in the lower part of the
The products move on with the short side leading (wrap-around machine, is controlled by brushless motors, in order to ensure a
case) or with the long side leading (tray). constant tensioning of the film.

23
 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 Thanks to a special meter outside the tunnel, it is also possible
transition of the pack.
generated by the shrinking process, the tunnel manages in an to have a detailed and immediate report of energy consumption.
efficient and homogeneous way the hot air flows on the whole The final section of the tunnel's belt is equipped with cleaning
surface of the pack, ensuring its high quality. brushes made of fiberglass 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.

24
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 shrinkwrapper must free;
vary depending on • it complies with
the selected pack current regulations
configuration, an appropriate device automatically on environmental
compensates the difference of shrinkwrapper 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.

25
 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.

26
 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 shrinkwrappers, 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.

27
 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.

28
 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 45 packs per minute.

29
 ACCESSORIES

PSHA

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

onto the heat-shrinking film surface.
SK ERGON series shrinkwrappers 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 shrinkwrappers 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.

30
 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
innovative film welding device. shrinkwrappers 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.

31
 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.

32
 “USER-FRIENDLY” AUTOMATION

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

33
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