Matrix Packaging Machinery, powered by Pro Mach, introduced the new Morpheus box-motion vertical form-fill-seal machine capable of speeds of up to 180 bags per minute at widths ranging from 2 to 12 inches wide. (Matrix Pack Expo East Booth # 706)
The company also showcases the new Apollo high-speed intermittent vertical form-fill-seal machine rated at speeds of up to 150 bags per minute. Both machines are based on the company’s next generation servo motion control platform, which debuted at Pack Expo 2013 with the introduction of the Metis intermittent/continuous motion form-fill-seal machine. The machines in this new family feature small footprint to conserve floor space, high speed for greater throughput, Beckhoff PC architecture for advanced servo motion control, and PackML compatibility for fast start up and ease of operation.
The Morpheus is designed for films requiring higher dwell time in order to create a perfect seal. The machine provides manufacturers with complete control of dwell time regardless of speed. One of the most unique features of the new machine is that it accommodates such a wide range of package widths – one machine, in effect, doing the work normally required of two. Advanced engineering is responsible for the distinctive sealing jaw that can accommodate high-speeds, a range of width sizes, and longer dwell times. The space saving 36-inch wide frame is a plus for any packaging room.
The new Apollo form-fill-seal machine comes in the same 36-inch wide frame as the Morpheus. The intermittent-motion Apollo has a rated throughput of up to 150 bags per minute and accommodates films that do not require higher dwell times to properly seal. It produces bags from 2 to 11 inches wide.
The new Matrix platform for next generation form-fill-seal machines
In the design of the new platform, Matrix engineers compared a number of control hardware and software solutions. A Beckhoff PC based solution out-performed the others in terms of high-speed, precise motion control. This PC-based control system ensures off-the-shelf availability of PC hardware and ever increasing processing power as the PC industry progresses. The system features the open EtherCAT communication network for effective communications with other machines and business systems.
The control architecture is PackML compliant, which speeds up system integration and operator training as well as facilitating consistency in operation across PackML compliant machines. A 15-inch operator interface offers capabilities similar to a tablet computer, allowing operators through touch and swipe actions to call up the screen most helpful to them and to have several screens open at one time. The HMI’s capabilities are designed to aid operators in maintaining high overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and quality packaging.
Vacuum pull belts improve performance. This upgraded handling of a variety of films offers marketers greater packaging options and is a hallmark of the new platform. Tool-less changeover simplifies operation and helps increase uptime. The machine’s open design facilitates fast cleaning.
For more information on the innovative Matrix Morpheus, Apollo, and Metis, stop by the Pack Expo booth # N- 5321, call 888-628-7491, and visit www.MatrixPM.com.
