Eclipse cartoner puts others in the shade

UK-based Partners in Packaging launched the Eclipse intermittent motion end load cartoner manufactured by its US principal MGS Machine Corporation.

Aimed specifically at the pharmaceutical and cosmetics sectors, the Eclipse conforms to cGMP standards and is capable of speeds of up to 90 cartons per minute, depending on size. It comes with a full range of feeding systems for ampoules, vials, syringes, bottles, transdermal patches and tubes. Changeover is tool-less, making it quick and easy.

The machine is capable of handling cartons down to 1.5 inches square and has a new carton set-up mechanism to facilitate carton erection and improve handling of smaller cartons in particular.

Of special interest to the pharma industry is the 'drop-through' design, which allows any loose product, such as stray tablets or capsules, to fall through to the bottom of the machine via a sloping surface. Furthermore, this area is provided with lighting, making it easy to see and retrieve items.

Another benefit is the design of the guarding around the machine. A pair of sliding panels gives access to the main part of the unit, but these can then be folded out fully to give walk-in access for ease of maintenance and cleaning.

Also on show was Etipack's System 1 print and apply labeller for cylindrical bottles and jars, which was demonstrated applying a self-adhesive label to a round pharmaceutical bottle. The System 1 can handle products ranging in diameter from 18mm to 80mm reliably and accurately at speeds of up to 300 per minute, Partners in Packaging says.