The MULTIVAC packaging solution combines high production performance with maximum line availability, even in applications characterised by a broad variety of products and formats. Its modular architecture allows individual line components to be converted significantly faster and more intuitively, reducing downtime and improving overall operational efficiency. Designed for highly flexible manufacturing environments, the system enables companies to respond rapidly to changing production requirements while maintaining consistent packaging performance and productivity.

“Our new slicing line combines a high level of flexibility with high output. It is also particularly compact, requiring around 28 percent less surface area than a comparable line for this application. It also offers unsurpassed yield monitoring for all process steps, from the slicer’s loading conveyor right through to the individual sliced product pack,” explains Thomas Fickler, Product Manager for Thermoforming Packaging Machines at MULTIVAC. “The MULTIVAC Hygienic Design is conceived down to the smallest detail throughout the entire line, particularly in the new handling module and the new product buffer. Whether it is the slicer or the rocker, or changing the gripper in the handling module, all the components can be converted more quickly and easily than ever. This means that the new solution can be used very flexibly, for example packaging slices of cooked or raw ham as well as hard cheese in retail packs.“

**The slicing line combines a high level of flexibility with high output. (photo: MULTIVAC)**

The line comprises an Advanced series slicer with a new loading conveyor and weigher, together with a rocker in hygienic design for easy cleaning and format change, as well as a product buffer and a new handling module, which is designed with an open frame for maximum hygiene, and also features a new quick-change gripper and precision pick-up conveyor. The R 145 thermoforming packaging machine offers a lean design with straight side cladding and new holding devices for the emergency stop switches, as well as many other user-friendly improvements. One cross web labeller is used for top labelling of the packs and another for bottom labelling, while an inspection system ensures that the labels and print are always checked reliably. A handling module with optimised design has been integrated into the outfeed of the thermoforming packaging machine.

The potential for optimisation of production
“Line yield monitoring now also includes the slicer’s loading conveyor,” explains Thomas Fickler. “All the product quantities and production volumes are captured continuously at four measuring points in the packaging process, and any production shortfalls can be assigned precisely to the particular process step. This means that the potential for optimisation of production becomes transparent and can then be implemented.”
At the trade fair the line was seen in live operation, packaging slices of cooked and raw ham as well as hard cheese. Visitors will also be able to learn about the benefits of the slicing line, such as rapid gripper change and digital solutions like the batch report and digital product passport.