PACK EXPO International: TNA Solutions debuts the world’s fastest case packing system in North America

tna ropac® 5 to help food producers automate secondary packaging amidst labor shortages

TNA Solutions, a global leader in complete processing and packaging solutions, is set to showcase its advanced secondary packaging capabilities at PACK EXPO International. As labor shortages continue to challenge the food industry, TNA’s offerings are designed to meet growing demands for automation and efficiency. The highlights will include tna ropac® 5, the world’s fastest case packing system for flexible bags, capable of handling up to 200 bags per minute. The system features TNA’s patented semi-rotary bag stacking technology, catering to small-to-medium, pillow-style bags used in snacks, confectionery, pasta, and cereal.

“The US food industry has been significantly impacted by labor shortages, driving an increased demand for automation,” commented Mukul Shukla, Vice President, TNA North America. “As the world’s largest market for snacks and the second largest for confectionery, the US provides an ideal platform for us to highlight our complete processing and packaging line solutions. This year at PACK EXPO International, we are spotlighting our secondary packaging capabilities, a critical yet often overlooked aspect of production that can significantly enhance automation and efficiency.”

According to a Deloitte and the Manufacturing Institute study, 1.9 million manufacturing jobs are expected to remain unfilled in the US by 2033[1], underscoring the urgent need for automation. Additionally, as consumers become more health-conscious, there is a rising demand for smaller pack sizes that cater to their wellness goals. However, increasing the speed of existing case packers often leads to reduced efficiency. The tna ropac® 5 addresses these challenges by offering industry-leading speeds and tool-less changeovers. Featuring a bag conditioner, case packer, case erector, and checkweigher, the system’s easy changeovers allow for quick and hassle-free adjustments. Its compact design, at a width of only 48 inches, and optional twin-packer configuration ensure it fits seamlessly into various production environments. By leveraging innovative semi-rotary stacking motion, the system minimizes both product breakage and machine downtime, enhancing the overall efficiency of the production line.

For instance, Australian snack manufacturer Majans saw a 140% increase in throughput within 12 months after implementing the tna ropac® 5. The company is known for its diverse range of 53 products, including nuts, chips, and other snack items, producing over 2 million cases of snacks each year. Majans currently uses around 70% of the tna ropac® capacity of 200 bags per minute, but through working with TNA Solutions the company has ensured that future increases have been firmly factored into the equation. From a sustainability perspective, the tna ropac® 5 is also able to accommodate the company’s plans to move to paper-based packaging in 2024, supporting its sustainable development plans without impacting production speeds.

TNA experts will be available throughout the show to provide advice and discuss individual needs for complete line solutions. Register for PACK EXPO International 2024 for FREE with comp code 75B61. Visit TNA North America, Inc. at booth #N-5120.

Visit https://www.tnasolutions.com/product/tna-ropac-5/ to learn more

[1] https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/press-releases/us-manufacturing-could-need-new-employees-by-2033.html