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Packaging specalist Ranpak has added three new automated solutions to its portfolio, aiming to drive improved productivity.

The three new products bring automation and protective paper technology together into integrated solutions, designed to empower packers to achieve greater quality, consistency and sustainability while improving labor efficiency and ergonomics within packaging operations.

Now available to European customers, the PadPak Multi-Station automatically delivers cushioning pads with efficiency to the packer, eliminating multiple converters and improving ergonomics. An automated line allows a single central PadPak paper converter to supply 100% recyclable, biodegradable and renewable paper pads to up to ten packing stations continuously. The solution is modular and customisable, saving space and enabling layouts that adapt to specific packaging needs.

DecisionTower with FillPak Trident uses the machine vision capabilities of Ranpak’s DecisionTower solution to measure voids and dispense the perfect amount of kerbside-recyclable paper void fill material through a connected FillPak Trident converter. By combining advanced vision technology with sustainable paper packaging materials, waste is reduced and the process is more consistent, providing a better customer experience during unboxing.

According to Ranpak, up to 35% paper reduction can be achieved with the solution due to the combination of active void measurement and the use of the unique triangle-shaped paper pads dispensed by the FillPak Trident converter, which is engineered to fill space with the minimum required amount of paper materials. The solution automatically adjusts to different box types and void volumes for ease of use with limited-to-no operator training.

Finally, the Pad’it solution automatically inserts a waved paper cushioning pad at the bottom, top, or both top and bottom of a package to provide an additional layer of protection in the box. The automated system creates, picks and places pads, reducing manual labour and requiring minimal operator training. It can add additional padding to up to 15 boxes per minute and ensures precise pad placement by using a robotic arm and the WrapPak Protector converter.

By complementing the development of automation solutions with sustainable paper materials, Ranpak aims to help businesses to scale their operations while keeping mindful of sustainability performance and regulatory changes. The solutions automate some of the most repetitive tasks so that employees can focus on more complex and strategic operations.

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