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+--- Thread: How Do Cartoning Machines Work? (/thread-30650.html)
How Do Cartoning Machines Work? - Joseph Liemandt - 09-06-2025
Cartoning machines work by automatically erecting flat carton blanks, feeding products into the formed cartons, and then closing and sealing the cartons, either by tucking in the end flaps or using glue, to complete the packaging process. Different types, such as horizontal, vertical, and wrap-around cartoners, handle various products and use different methods for feeding and closing, but all follow a general cycle of carton erection, product loading, and closure.
General Process Steps
- 1. Carton Infeed and Erection:
The machine starts by picking up flat, folded cartons from a magazine or stack. A suction device then takes the carton, and the machine uses a folding mechanism to form it into its three-dimensional shape.
- 2. Product Infeed:
The products to be packaged are fed into the machine. This can happen manually or automatically via conveyor belts, robotic arms, or other mechanisms.
- 3. Product Loading:
The erected cartons are positioned in a loading station where the products are inserted. This insertion is done by mechanical pushers, pick-and-place robots, or other methods, with the products often moving through an open end or from the top.
- 4. Optional Leaflet Insertion:
Some machines can automatically insert product leaflets or instructions into the carton along with the product.
- 5. Carton Closure:
Once the products are loaded, the machine closes the carton by folding and tucking the end flaps or by applying glue to seal it.
- 6. Ejection and Quality Control:
The completed and sealed cartons are then ejected from the machine for further processing or packaging. Automated quality control systems, using sensors and cameras, often inspect the finished cartons and reject any defective ones.
- Horizontal Cartoners:
These machines work with pre-glued cartons, opening and conveying them to the loading station where products are loaded sideways.
- Vertical Cartoners:
Often used for smaller cartons and high speeds, these machines form and fill cartons in a vertical position, which can offer better product protection and prevent spillage.
- Wrap-around Cartoners:
These machines fold the carton material around the product to form the box.