How to choose the right equipment to optimize production ?
In the cardboard packaging arena, optimizing production tools generally means increasing productivity and the profit margin. But the question is, what’s the best solution for gaining a true competitive advantage to meet this industry’s complex requirements: automated or semi-automated equipment? As you might imagine, the response isn’t a simple one and depends on several factors.
Stefan Badertscher, sales and marketing director at Impack (Impack Packaging Equipment Design) offers us a comparison of two solutions and a few things to consider.
ADVANTAGES OF SEMI-AUTOMATED EQUIPMENT
- Human supervisor
- Quicker and easier installation
- Easy to use, quick start
- Better quality control
- Corrections possible without interrupting production
- More packing configurations available
INCONVENIENCES OF SEMI-AUTOMATED EQUIPMENT
- Maximum speed lower than automatic equipment
- Employees don’t all work at the same speed
- Speed varies depending on the packer model
ADVANTAGES OF FULLY AUTOMATED EQUIPMENT
- Works 24/7
- No breaks, no vacations
- Constant productivity
- High production speed
INCONVENIENCES OF FULLY AUTOMATED EQUIPMENT
- More costly and complex to install, requires digital knowledge
- Usually performs dedicated tasks
- A robot requires a larger footprint and the installation of a protection zone
Based on his experience, Stefan Badertscher explains: “For companies that make several sizes of boxes, and therefore require numerous adjustments, it’s not realistic to think about automated production. Customers very quickly understand that semi-automation is a more cost-effective solution for them.”
Small and medium companies are often looking for more speed. Impacted by labor shortages and increasing salaries, they are often tempted by automation. But after an exhaustive analysis with Impack, the semi-automated solution is often the one chosen because of its flexibility, efficiency gains and other advantages. Stefan Badertscher ends by saying, “Challenge us to increase your productivity!”
