MULTIVAC checkweighers now work even more closely with MULTIVAC packaging machines and labelling systems: loading a new recipe in the HMI 2.0 control terminal automatically controls the settings for the checkweigher and – if present – the metal detector. The integration simplifies the operation, reduces the interaction between man and machine and increases the level of both automation and process reliability.

In the food area, checkweighers mainly serve to verify compliance with the specified fill amounts in accordance with the requirements of the finished packaging regulations. In the non-food sector, the weight determination is used for quantity control of high-quality bulk goods or containers. In terms of a high overall equipment effectiveness and effi-cient product flow control, deep integration of the checkweigher in the line control is desirable.

By integrating the checkweighers, which are available in three weight ranges from 10 to 6,000 grams, in the HMI 2.0 user interface of its packaging machines, MULTIVAC can meet all these requirements in full. Specifically this means that, if a user selects the recipe for a new product batch at the packaging machine, he also immediately changes all the necessary settings on the checkweigher. Starting and stopping the checkweigher can also be done from the user interface of the packaging machine, which also displays status messages for the checkweigher such as “ready”, “stopped” or “producing”.

With an optional metal detector

MULTIVAC checkweighers are designed as dual-range weighers, which enables them to achieve the unusually wide range of officially calibrated weights. The checkweighers can be equipped with metal detectors as an option. These are adapted to the specific application in order to achieve the required sensitivity. They detect all types of metals, such as iron, stainless steel, copper, aluminium, brass, bronze, titanium, etc.

When it comes to the construction of the frame structure, MULTIVAC Marking & Inspection can call on its many years of experience in building conveyor belt labellers. The transport conveyor and weighing modules are mounted on a robust twin-beam carrier, onto which almost all configurations of different conveyor modules can be fitted. The floor stands therefore offer particular advantages: they are designed for rigidity against flexing, resistance to torsion and for reduction of vibration. This ensures maximum weighing accuracy with the checkweighers.

Twin-track version for high output

Where multi-track packaging lines are being used, MULTIVAC Marking & Inspection has a twin-track version of the checkweigher in its portfolio. Both tracks are controlled by one control terminal, which offers all the benefits of in-depth line integration. Simultaneous weight checking on both tracks ensures that high output is achieved, and this optimises the packaging procedure with both line converging and the discharge of the packs via a handling module.