Reducing downtimes with Raptec quick-change handling parts

Downtimes are non-productive times on every bottling and packaging line, so they need to be minimised. An option for fast replacement of container handling parts produces enormous time savings and a concomitant enhancement of line efficiency. For this reason, the new Raptec handling parts from Krones AG, Neutraubling, Germany, feature quick-release locks, so that they can be replaced with just a few manipulations. In addition, thanks to their open construction, Raptec container handling parts are simple and easy to clean.

Labellers and inspectors

On Krones labellers, the guide rails in the Raptec standard version are quickly locked into place by hand, with the starwheel manually fixed in position with a screw lock. We also offer an optional extra for labellers, with the starwheel being clamped by a simple 75° turn at the Raptec quick-change lock and pneumatic locking provided for the guide rails. Both the standard and the optional-extra versions have been available for all labellers since mid-2007.

Both these versions, the standard and the optional extra, are also available for clamping the starwheels and the guide rails of inspectors from the Toptronic 719, RotoCheck 775, SpinInspect 756 and Smartronic 714 series.

Filling technology

For clamping guide rails on fillers, Krones has developed a manually operated quick-release sliding-type clamp mechanism. The starwheel is also swiftly clamped by hand, using a locking wheel. Since mid-2007, these Raptec container handling parts have been available for retrofits to all Krones filler types.

By saving around thirty per cent of the change-over time, a production line (particularly when frequent product change-overs are involved) can be utilised with significantly enhanced efficiency. Fast, easy change-over is facilitated by the low weight of the individual components and the unambiguous colour-coding. When conventional sets of Krones handling parts are being used in existing lines, they can be fitted in alternation with Raptec handling parts. Please note: the existing sets of handling parts can continue to be used.

Even in the standard version, the new guide starwheels and centre guides are very easy to clean. For bottling products under special hygienic conditions, they are supplemented by a special version in hygienic design.