Productivity and safety considerations were front of mind in the decision by Crewe-based flexible packaging supplier D&M Packaging to buy a Universal X8 automatic slitting machine from Universal Converting Equipment. D&M Packaging hopes the system will support further business growth.
The Universal X8 offers automatic end-of-roll cut-off and automatic roll closure, allowing automatic unloading of finished rolls as soon as the machine stops. Automatic core loading, core positioning and attachment of the slit tails to the cores means that, according to Universal Converting Equipment, the machine can be running again about 40 seconds after stopping. Access for the operator is simpler with the Universal X8 than with a turret rewind system, it said, reducing setup times and operating delays.
‘The Universal X8 is a highly automated machine that can add additional handling systems in the future,’ commented Mark Peplinski, managing director of D&M Packaging. ‘Universal’s approach to operator safety was refreshing. They showed us their detailed Risk Assessments and safety analysis reports to convince us that as well as being the most productive slitting machine, it would also be the safest. They backed this up with trials on their Universal X8 in their new Technology Centre. We have worked with Universal over many years and appreciate the ongoing service they provide once machines are installed.’
Additional functions such as automatic weighing, labelling, bagging and palletising can also be added to the Universal X8, as required.
