New to PACK EXPO International 2016 will be the latest packaging partnership between Bosch Packaging Technology and recently acquired Kliklok-Woodman. On display at the booth will be the proven vertical form, fill and seal machine for efficient and continuous production of salted snacks, such as potato chips, tortillas, pretzels and other savory snacks. The Woodman P3c bagmaker is a prime example of the company’s contribution to Bosch’s wide portfolio for snacks, which aims to continue positioning the company as the ideal partner for small start-ups to large multinational corporations. The acquisition of Kliklok-Woodman back in 2015 helped strengthen Bosch’s position in the North and South American packaging market and the additional expertise and unique technologies enhanced the company’s offerings as single-source solution supplier.

“We are thrilled to be a member of the Bosch family at this year’s PACK EXPO,” says Jason D’Arcy, product manager at Bosch Packaging Technology (Kliklok-Woodman). “We bring to the table decades of experience, particularly in the demanding salted and savory snacks sector, while Bosch gives us access to its extensive sales and service network and system solutions capabilities. This partnership allows us to provide our customers with the high level of support they expect, on a truly global scale. It also gives us access to the engineering experience at Bosch, helping to further develop our products.”

Going with the flow 
Backed by over 60 years of industry experience, the Woodman P3c is specifically configured for efficient packaging of products that vary in size and shapes, such as salted snacks. Integrated product stripping, settling and poking ensure consistent fill rate, eliminate open-end seals and achieve uninterrupted production. By sweeping the two plates located beneath the sealing jaws through the end seal area, (stripping) a fixed bag size accommodates the variable product volume, reducing waste and increasing efficiency. Furthermore, the product clamp, located above sealing jaws, acts as a staging device by delaying the leading edge of the product charge. This creates a clear separation between product charges. As a result, only the right amount of product reaches the bag, which is then ‘settled’ via vibrations within the intended confines of the bag. Accurate filling, clear seals and a system free from clogs means no downtime and constant reliable production.

Universal bagmaker 
Capable of producing up to 120 bags per minute, the Woodman P3c accommodates a wide range of bag sizes from 2.5” x 3” up to 12” x 22”, as well as various weights from as little as 14 grams right through to family packs of 850 grams – all on one machine. The added ability to pack multiple pack sizes and weights on a single solution enables the machine to grow with the company, providing flexibility to the producer. To help North and South American snacks producers stand out from the crowd, the bagger offers a variety of bag styles: pillow, gusseted, block bottom and perforated bag strings – enhancing shelf differentiation. This cost-effective solution offers intuitive, self-tutoring HMI, eliminating operator error and maximizing user familiarity and ease of use. The electrical enclosure is recessed within the frame, allowing for small footprint and enhancing accessibility for easy maintenance.

To learn more, visit Bosch at PACK EXPO International in Chicago, Illinois, from November 6-9, 2016 at booth S-3514.