Bosch unveils SVC 4020

THE SVC flexible vertical packaging machine platform is the latest from Bosch Packaging Technology. The first in the series is the SVC 4020, which debuted at PACK EXPO Las Vegas in September. The machine can be used for fresh and frozen food packaged in pillow bags. Future SVC machines will be available with additional pack styles to handle a wide variety of free-flowing dry, wet and frozen food products.

“We designed the SVC vertical packaging platform to be uniquely customisable,” says Robert van Mol, product manager, Bosch. “It can be tailored to meet the needs of numerous industries, as well as meet diverse hygienic levels. The SVC gives our customers a versatile and flexible solution to maximise business opportunities.”

With a stainless steel frame, the SVC offers manufacturers a streamlined design for clutter-free workspaces, simplifying operations. Its electric cabinet has been incorporated within the machine frame to reduce the number and length of cords and cables. Quick and tool-less format changeovers reduce downtime. The SVC is easy to operate via an intuitive Human Machine Interface (HMI) to reduce training time and improve productivity.

Versatility from product to package

With the SVC, food producers can package practically any free-flowing product and have the ability to react quickly to changing end-user demands. Products can range from sensitive dry infant powders to nuts, confectionery products, mixed salads, cheese, protein, frozen food, as well as many other products. The platform technology accommodates multiple bag styles, including pillow, side gusseted, stand-up, corner seal and Doy, with various reclose and easy opening features in different sizes up to 400 millimetres. Manufacturers can also choose their desired sealing technology, including poly heat seal (PHS), heat seal (HS), and ultrasonic.

Product safety ensured

The machine has many hygienic features to meet customer requirements. Its dry cleaning configuration allows for basic wiping when packaging most dry foods and powders. The machine can be wiped downwith simple cleaning agents as well. In case product-specific characteristics require more intense cleaning procedures with foam cleaning agents, the SVC is available in a washdown configuration. Additional hygienic features include sloped stainless steel surfaces ensuring proper drainage and preventing food residue. The elimination of holes and slots as well as the reduced amount of cables further supports a hygienic environment. Options for increased hygiene levels include upgraded components, such as stainless steel film rollers and improved hygienic forming sets that offer higher protection.

The film input is designed ergonomically, sloping at 45 degrees to provide the operator optimum access and enhanced speed for threading and splicing in new film. There are fewer rollers compared to previous generations of packaging equipment, increasing bag per minute speeds. Total Preventive Maintenance (TPM) has been incorporated in the basic design philosophy, so producers are reassured that their production will continuously run at its highest efficiency.