Machine Produces Leak-Proof Pack With Shelf Appeal

Ulma Packaging is targeting the UK whole fresh bird market with a new machine - the Pacific SSF.

Ulma Packaging is targeting the UK whole fresh bird market with a new machine - the Pacific SSF.

After 20 months of research and development work on the Pacific SSF, Ulma UK director, Derek Paterson, is delighted with the result: "Already there is considerable interest being shown in a machine which, as well as providing a leak-proof pack, also enhances on-shelf product appearance.

The Pacific has a dedicated film pre-stretch system that is said to ensure shrink appearance is achieved by fully utilising the film properties.

Appearance is enhanced further by the use of a vacuum system prior to sealing, which greatly reduces the air left in the pack before shrinking, resulting in a superior shrink appearance, claimed Ulma.

The Pacific is also said to have the benefit of a modem link on the machine electronics, which enables remote fault finding from the Ulma factory, and provides real time management information on speed, production rate and product mix.

Ulma worked in partnership with Banham Poultry, one of the country's biggest producers of fresh chickens, to develop the Pacific SSF machine, and Banham director Dennis Foreman is delighted with the result and has since purchased a second Pacific machine.

He said: "We pack 600,000 fresh chickens every week for major supermarkets and wholesalers and the Pacific is giving us the results we need.

The modified flow wrap system that Ulma has developed is ideal.

Paterson said that Ulma would always work with customers to produce bespoke versions of the Pacific SSF if required.

"At Ulma we have always carried out development work in close harmony with our customers and that will not change with the new machines, nor will the company's ethos of being an open, developing business, always at the cutting edge of technology.

We know that in the Pacific we have a product which is second to none and we are determined to make the most of that," he said.

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