The compact and reliable solution for vertical top-loading case packing #
In this article, the Duetti Packaging team will discuss machinery for secondary packaging automation. “MINIPACK” is Duetti Packaging‘s answer to end-of-line needs for small to medium-sized production runs. It is specifically designed to work with Regular Slotted Containers (RSC) and sets as its primary goal maximum ease of operation, reliability, a small footprint, and a contained investment.
Technical details: “MINIPACK”, the case packer small on the outside, but ‘big’on the inside! #
Cartesian technology for precision and compactness #
The “MINIPACK” is an automatic case packer of the Cartesian vertical insertion (top-loading) type. The design offers a compact solution and a minimal footprint, making it suitable for integration into complex production areas.
The machine ensures:
- Reduced maintenance
- Quick format changeover
Packing occurs from above, inserting products into the RSC case. The gripping equipment (which can be by suction cups, mechanical clamps, or inflatable bell/tulip heads) is mounted on a carriage actioned by a brushless motorised axis group, which ensures positioning precision and gentle product handling.
Product flow and key components #
The product (e.g., cartons, trays, jars, bottles, or vials) reaches the gripping station via conveyors. Accessories such as rail or customised guides are inserted to prepare the batch and optimally manage product accumulation.
Operational Details:
- The product infeed conveyors have a stainless-steel frame and adjustable side guides, both designed around the product specification.
- The machine includes an adjustable case centring device to ensure correct case positioning before insertion.
- The infeed table is fitted with photocells for missed grip control and batch stop devices.
- The product gripping head can be fixed or adjustable, for example, pneumatic bell/tulip heads.
- In all cases, the head is detachable and replaceable due to a quick and simple release system.
The stainless-steel frame ensures maximum ease of cleaning and long-term resistance.
Application sectors and top-loading versatility #
The vertical insertion (top-loading) of the “MINIPACK” makes it the ideal solution for diverse products that benefit from delicate and precise handling.
The machine manages: cases, trays, jars, bottles, and vials, finding use in crucial sectors:
- Home/Personal Care: Duetti vertical case packers are effective for managing products in common formats like vials (soaps, detergents, gels).
- Chemical: this sector requires top-loading case packing systems that ensure precise orientation and delicate positioning for complex design containers such as plastic containers, cans and buckets, preventing stress.
- Pharmaceutical: Duetti Packaging develops complete and customised solutions for casing and palletising in this sector, known for high standards of reliability and traceability.
- Beverage: another key sector, where the “MINIPACK” is used for casing liquids (bottles, cans).
Food: another key sector, where the “MINIPACK” is used for casing food products (cases, jars, tins).
Modular integration and RSC carton sealing #
The “MINIPACK”, working with the RSC carton, easily integrates with Duetti Packaging modules to build a complete and tailored case packing line.
Separator insertion module (IAC) #
It is possible to combine the Separator Insertion Module (IAC), an automatic inserter for pre-formed case separators. These separators, positioned vertically in a belt magazine, are picked up with suction cups and opened by rotation to be inserted into the case, ensuring internal product protection (e.g., bottles or jars).
RSC case sealing: tape or hot melt glue #
The RSC carton offers the flexibility of two sealing methods, both available as complementary modules that join the main system:
- CHN Module (Tape Sealing): automatic module for closing and taping the cartons.
- CHM Module (Glue Sealing): automatic module for sealing with hot melt glue.
(See the article HOT MELT GLUE VS TAPE)
Automate your packaging with the right solution #
Think of the “MINIPACK” as a precision Swiss watch set in a small section of your production line. Despite its reduced size, its Cartesian system acts with the precision and reliability of a well-oiled engine, transforming a logistical bottleneck into a continuous operational flow.
“MINIPACK” is the case packer that balances a contained investment with the need for automation, reliability, and compactness, making it the ideal solution for end-of-line automation in confined spaces.
Duetti Packaging offers technical support starting from the case solution and extending to the optimal configuration of the packaging line. Contact us for a consultation to analyse your specific line requirements.
