Challenges are never in short supply in this industry. A packaging line must be able to adapt quickly to new product formats, and the consequences of downtime are immediate. In practice, there is no choice between high output and stable operations – both are required.
At the same time, production must meet strict food safety standards.
Certifications such as HACCP, BRC, and ISO set requirements for both processes and documentation. For the packaging stage, this means machines must provide repeatable accuracy and incorporate features that prevent breakage, mispacking, or contamination.
Traditionally, failures in packaging equipment have been handled reactively: The machine stops when something breaks, and production must adapt to the situation. Without real insight into the condition of components, the risk of unplanned stoppages increases.
More producers are now adopting predictive maintenance, where data from machines and lines is used to anticipate faults before they occur. By monitoring wear, vibration, temperature, and other parameters, service can be scheduled proactively. The result is a lower probability of acute breakdowns.
This development requires a close connection between machine technology and digital platforms. In practice, it means integrating packaging machines with higher-level systems such as MES and ERP. The resulting insights form a stronger basis for operational and investment decisions – and contribute to higher Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
Product variation is another area where packaging solutions play an increasing role. The food industry continues to expand its range of product types, sizes, and packaging formats, and equipment must handle this without extensive reconfiguration.
Fast and simple format changes have become a competitive factor, freeing up time that would otherwise be lost in transitions between production runs. Keep reading to see how the new WCP solves this issue.
Packaging is directly linked to sustainability. Oversized cartons and unnecessary filler materials represent both environmental impact and avoidable costs in transport and storage.
Solutions based on precisely dimensioned wrap-around blanks reduce material consumption and waste. This provides a dual benefit: lower climate impact and reduced operating costs.
Machine lifetime and serviceability are also part of the sustainability equation. Equipment that remains in service for a long time, with easy access to spare parts and maintenance points, requires fewer resources over its life cycle. For producers reporting against climate and sustainability targets, these factors are becoming increasingly relevant.
Another development is the shift from pneumatic to electric machine solutions. This brings greater precision and lower energy consumption.
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The new WCP performs automatic format changes with a few touches on the screen.
The evolution of wrap-around case packers (WCP) illustrates how technology can address many of the challenges faced by producers. Our new WCP takes flat blanks and forms them around products in a continuous process. The result is stable, shelf-ready packaging – aligned with today’s demands for efficient logistics and visibility at the point of sale.
The true innovation of this WCP lies in its ability to handle a wide variety of products – from cans and bottles to flexible packs such as coffee or pasta bags.
A customized infeed system combined with a state-of-the-art HMI enables automatic format changes with just a few touches on the screen – no manual adjustments required.
Product handling is done by flexible robot arms controlled directly from the PLC enabling introduction of new product without any costly rebuilds.
These fast and seamless format changes ensure reliable operation and minimal downtime – making the WCP a real competitive advantage.
The WCP reduces packaging waste and optimizes material use. Environmental benefits also stem from its long service life and easy maintenance, which limit the need for frequent replacements and unnecessary resource use.
Safety is a cornerstone in all Tronrud Packaging development, and the WCP is no exception. The machine is built with operator protection in mind, featuring clear guarding, intuitive control panels, and accessible service points. This supports safe operation, low operating costs, and high uptime.
Let’s not forget – limited floor space shouldn’t limit performance. That’s why our machine is designed with the smallest possible footprint, maximizing efficiency without compromise.
The WCP is more than a packaging machine – it is a platform for future growth and digitalization. Access to and analysis of production data enables predictive maintenance and continuous operational improvements.
Far from modest, the new WCP demonstrates how Norwegian technology and engineering can contribute to a smarter and more sustainable future for the packaging industry.