In the era of Industry 4.0, end-of-line efficiency is no longer an option, but a categorical imperative. Choosing the ideal packaging machinery can determine the success or failure of an entire seasonal campaign, especially in the fresh produce sector.
1. Production Capacity Analysis
Start from the hourly output you need at the peak of the season, not the yearly average. Work from the packs per day and the real shift hours, then add a safety margin for stops and format changes. As a reference, according to manufacturer specifications the TECO T3 tray former reaches up to 2,100 trays per hour, the T2N up to 2,400 units per hour and the FT4 punnet former up to 6,600 units per hour.
An oversized machine ties up capital; an undersized one becomes the end-of-line bottleneck exactly when production peaks. Send Frei your peak volumes and formats and our technical office will recommend the right model and configuration.
2. Versatility and Format Change
In a market that requires increasingly personalized packaging, format change speed is crucial. Modern tray formers must allow fast transitions between different types of trays (Pitu, Citrus, Open Top) without prolonged downtime. The T2K series, for example, excels in this flexibility, allowing transitions between formats with intuitive millimeter adjustments.
3. Gluing Systems: Robatech Precision
Packaging is only as strong as its glue. The integration of Robatech systems guarantees constant polymer application, reducing waste and ensuring that each tray maintains its structural integrity during transport and refrigeration.
4. Robustness and Working Environment
Packaging machinery often operates in difficult environments: dust, humidity, and varying temperatures. Choosing machines with reinforced steel frames and protected electronic components is an investment in longevity.
5. The Importance of 24/7 Assistance
Downtime during the produce harvest is a critical emergency. At Frei GmbH, we understand that a machine's value also lies in its post-sales support. Access to original spares and specialized technicians ready to intervene in real-time (24h Assistance) transforms a supplier into a strategic technology partner.