FAQ: Feeding Systems

Question 1

Can I fit both a printer and a labeller to one of your feeders?

Answer

Yes, our RF1 feeder can accomodate both a labeller and a printer on the same system. If you wish to install a thermal transfer printer, a conveyor extension may be necessary. A typical application of this setup is applying a date code to a food sleeve, followed by a promotional label such as “new recipe” or “meal deal”.

Question 2

What’s the advantage of a shingling conveyor?

Answer

This is the alternative collection device to the catcher. As the feeder runs, the speed of the shingling conveyor automatically adjusts to allow products to overlap in a controlled manner. Once they reach the end of the ramp, they are collected by the operator, ensuring continuous operation and maximum throughput without interruptions.

Question 3

If I already have a printer, can it be refitted to a feeding system?

Answer

Absolutely. We supply all the necessary brackets and handle the full integration process, ensuring you receive a complete, ready to use system. We can also incorporate cameras into our compliant systems, provided they meet required specifications.

Question 4

Are feeding systems suitable for small and medium sized productions?

Answer

Feeding systems are an excellent fit for small to medium sized businesses, including those operating high-volume production lines. Cost-effective options are available, such as the RF Lite, out most compact standalone system.

Question 5

What are the advantages of a feeding system?

Answer

An offline feeding system can offer numerous benefits. By separating the coding process from the main production line, it allows for more controlled and precise application of codes, leading to improved quality and reduced errors for certain applications.

Key advantages:

Increased throughput and efficiency:

Offline coders can run independently, freeing up production lines and allowing for faster coding of products.
Accurate code positioning:

Coding offline allows for precise control over code placement, ensuring consistent and readable codes on otherwise tricky to code products or packaging.
Reduced waste:

Accurate coding reduces the risk of misprints or incorrect codes, leading to less waste.
Cost-effectiveness:

Offline coders can be more cost-effective than on-line coders, especially for short runs or trial products.
Flexibility and adaptability:

Offline systems can handle various packaging types and designs, offering flexibility in product marking.
Improved quality control:

By separating the coding process, offline systems allow for easier verification of code accuracy and quality.
Reduced labour costs:

Automating the coding process can free up labour and reduce errors caused by coding by hand.
Increased capacity:

Offline systems can be used to increase capacity during peak seasons or when demand is high.

Question 6

What types of packaging can I code using a feeding system?

Answer

Feeding systems, when fitted with a coding and/or labelling technology, are capable of coding/labelling a diverse range of packaging in its flat form, including Tyvek, cartons, sleeves and pouches.

Question 7

What is a feeding system, and how does it work?

Answer

A feeding system is a machine that has specifically been designed for coding and marking productions off-line (away from the main production line). Once fitted with a coding and/or labelling technology, they provide a standalone solution for the feeding and coding of packaging in it’s flat form.

To use a feeding system, you simply stack the product in the hopper and watch as it is automatically fed under the printer, labeller (or both) before being returned to a stack, ready for operator removal.