[dropcaps style=’2′]Windmöller & Hölscher (W&H) offers a new integrated automation and operating concept for its FFS packaging line with EASY CONTROL, which enhances the efficiency of the line. Higher transparency, ease of use and the integration of the entire FFS line lead to increased efficiency and quality in production. In addition to detailed information on the integrated FFS packaging line with EASY CONTROL and the proven bagging system TOPAS, visitors of the  ACHEMA exhibition can expect further interesting news from W&H in Hall 3, which will be published at the beginning of the fair. According to the company, TOPAS is one of the most widely used systems worldwide with around 1,000 systems sold and is already the fastest FFS machine in the market today.[/dropcaps]

So far, operators of FFS lines have been faced with the challenge of individually controlling and monitoring the plant components and third-party modules. The result: Loss of efficiency due to different operating systems, additional interfaces and error sources as well as lack of comprehensive production data. W&H as a full-line supplier of integrated FFS packaging lines consisting of FFS machine TOPAS, sheet palletizer PLATINUM and stretch hood machine ARGON, has now developed a modular automation and operating concept that enables consistent control and monitoring of the machine.

“EASY CONTROL consists of numerous modules that can be individually tailored to the needs of the customer,” explains Rafael Imberg, sales manager FFS packaging systems at W&H. A new module includes the integration of third-party equipment such as metal detector, ink-jet printer and checkweigher in the operation of the line. The advantages are obvious: the operator only has to know one more system. Another module makes status reports available everywhere via smartphone or tablet PC. Also, it gives hints about upcoming events. “For example, the machine reports an imminent roll change so that the operator can plan routes and resources in a forward-looking manner,” says Imberg. Using an office function, all production data can be accessed and analyzed from the office. “We provide a database of the entire line that was previously unavailable. The extensive analysis options make it possible to optimally control production,” explains Imberg.

Windmöller & Hölscher at ACHEMA: Hall 3.0, Stand F74