AUTOPACK’S SEMI-AUTOMATIC BUCKET
Autopack has launched a semi-
automatic bucket line to drive
efficiency for customers. The
modular system eliminates the
manual effort of separating and
orientating empty buckets from
a stack. It also lowers the initial
cost compared to a fully automatic
system. Users can construct a bucket line
suited to their specific needs. This
can consist of a bucket de-nester,
bucket sealer, filling system, lid de-
nester and lid pressing roller. Each
item can be added later if required.

The line is usually built around
the filling system of choice, liquid
doser, powder filler or a range of
weighing options. The user-friendly
semi-automatic operation is based
on manual infeed and outfeed of
containers. “There are numerous advantages
to automate but not every business
has the same needs, so the semi-
automatic route is often a good
starting point,” said Autopack
Managing Director Wayne Kedward.

“Our semi-automatic bucket line
is well placed to help businesses
take their first step on the road to
automation; an affordable, bespoke
and modular solution.”
The most popular line-up of
equipment available on the line
includes a Lid Pressure Roller
for round, square, oval and
rectangular buckets up to 400mm
in diameter. The driven pressure
drum for sealing the bucket can
be continuously adjusted in height
ranging from 40mm to 400mm
using a handwheel with a height
indicator. The pressure roller is equipped
with an input guide plate at the
front and rollers at the rear to
prevent the buckets from tipping
over. Other benefits include the
1,000mm conveyor belt, which
is driven by a drum motor and
made from blue plastic
modular links.

In addition, the integrated weigh
cell with advanced software
controls the delivery of the
product into the bucket maximising
speed and accuracy. The filing
operation can be performed
manually via push buttons or
automatically via the autoFill
function with the filling process
starting automatically when the
correct container is detected.

The stand beside the column can
be manually adjusted in height
for optimal alignment with the
dosing valve. The weighing platform
(400x400mm, height approximately
800mm) can include a central
drain hole for spilled liquids or a
recovery tray for powders and
solids. Constructed from stainless
steel 304, it is easy to clean and
resistant to intensive industrial use.

“The modular options for the
semi-automatic bucket line give
customers flexibility, as well as
improved speed and efficiency,”
added Jonathon Stewart, Autopack
UK Sales Director. “At time when
manufacturers from all industries
are feeling the pinch, solutions to
reduce costs and wastage can make
a real difference.”
www.auto-pack.co.uk 08 CHP PACKER INTERNATIONAL update