How to achieve a more stable folder-gluer?
The critical role of the folder-gluer process
In the production of corrugated cardboard boxes, precision in the folder-gluer process is critical to ensure the quality of the finished product. The blank – the die-cut and printed sheet of cardboard ready to be folded and glued – enters the folder-gluer machine, where adhesive is applied to the initial flap. From this point, the forming box must be guided in a stable and controlled manner until it is completely closed.
The “fish tailing” issue in conveyor belts
The conveyor belts play a crucial role in this process. If not properly designed, they can deviate laterally during operation, causing the phenomenon known as fish tailing, where the belt oscillates like a fish tail. This movement can result in the blank slipping, misaligned folds, irregular gluing, and box deformation, leading to increased waste and machine stoppages.
The solution: “no fish tailing” belts
The use of “no fish tailing” belts, made of high-strength composite materials with dimensional stability, ensures that the blank remains perfectly aligned throughout the production line. In many industrial applications, this solution can reduce waste by 20–25% compared to lines using standard belts, improving both production continuity and the quality of the final product.
High-pressure gluing systems: precision and speed
Equally important is the gluing system. SIPACK machines utilize high-pressure gluing systems, capable of applying adhesive precisely and uniformly along the score lines. This ensures a fast and durable bond, minimizes the risk of insufficient glue or smearing, and allows operation at high speeds without compromising joint quality.
Coordination between transport and closing
During the closing phase, the no fish tailing belts guide the blank accurately to the counter ejector, the section of the machine responsible for collecting and stacking the closed boxes in bundles, ready for transport or subsequent packaging operations. This coordination between high-pressure gluing and controlled transport ensures uniform, perfectly closed boxes, optimizes process repeatability, and minimizes manual intervention and machine stoppages.
Conclusion: efficiency, quality, and production continuity
In summary, the integration of no fish tailing belts and high-pressure gluing systems is a key factor in ensuring reliability, productivity, and consistent quality in modern folder-gluer lines, meeting the precision, speed, and standardization requirements of today’s packaging industry.
