Universal tube-loading feeder beats the robots

Tube-loading machine capable of feeding tube fillers with all currently available tube formats at speeds of up to 120 tubes/min feed elliptical and very small tubes automatically.

Kalix has launched a new tube-loading machine capable of feeding tube fillers with all currently available tube formats at speeds of up to 120 tubes per minute.

The multi-format Universal Feeder patented by the French specialist company, which was ergonomically designed, solves the problem of feeding elliptical and very small tubes automatically.

The automatic tube loaders currently available on the market are often limited in use when dealing with very small tubes with cannulas or heavy caps, and with very flat elliptical tubes.

For many types, the loader adjustments are problematic and production yields are unsatisfactory, given the number of incorrectly-fed tubes and tubes that fall over during transfers.

It is in response to customers' requests that Kalix has developed and patented the Universal Feeder tube loader, which automatically loads the most problematic types of tubes - elliptical tubes, more particularly - and achieves excellent results.

The equipment features an ergonomic design, a stainless-steel covered and mechanically welded structure, and transparent panels (in the casing of the machine) that provide a full view of the tubes.

The machine can be connected directly to the filler and is divided into three working areas (storage, separator and lift).

The machine controls are housed in an electrical cabinet mounted on one side.

The Universal Feeder can hold up to three 600mm x 400mm boxes at once, providing an uninterrupted production-time segment of 11 minutes for 25mm-diameter tubes at a speed of 100 tubes per minute.

With the lowest possible loading position, the machine offers easy loading and excellent ergonomics, even for the third box that is loaded in the uppermost part of the machine.

The new loader also offers exceptional speed, which can be set at up to 120 tubes per minute.

Format-changing time is about five minutes and no change-parts or other tools are needed.

Fewer than five adjustments enable users to adjust the machine manually to the exact tube format, diameter, and length desired.

One unique feature of the equipment is the transverse adjustment, which moves the entire assembly on roller bearings, placing it in relation to the filler while using the tube cap as reference datum.

The Universal Feeder avoids all damage to components through the use of special processes that protect the tubes from damage throughout - even minor abrasions caused by friction during handling.

The Universal Feeder can be used to load most Kalix tube fillers, including the KX1101, KX1100, and KX801 models About Kalix - Kalix, which was founded in 1928 and is based in the Paris Region, has become a world leader in packaging machines for cosmetic products.

Through close collaboration with customers and thanks to its high capacity for innovation, Kalix works to bring the best possible solutions to the problems faced by its client-companies.

Kalix counts many companies holding a number of major brands among its customers and has sold more than 6,000 machines in 117 countries worldwide over the past 40 years.

Kalix has a UK office based in Cranford (Northamptonshire).

In 2004, Kalix has become part of the Sirius Machinery division of the Nordstjernan Group, alongside Norden, Citus, and ADMV.

Sirius Machinery division is headquartered in Stockholm (Sweden).

For more information about Kalix, go to: www.kalix.fr.

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