Why Top Load Cartoning with ADCO is a Smart Choice

At ADCO, we pride ourselves on offering top load cartoning solutions that blend efficiency, reliability, and versatility. Our top load cartoning systems stand out for their streamlined process, designed to meet the diverse needs of the food and beverage industry. Here's why choosing top load cartoning with ADCO is a smart decision.

Streamlined Process

Top load cartoning offers a seamless packaging process, involving three main machines: the carton former, carton conveyor/product loader, and carton closer. This system allows products to be loaded directly into the carton, saving time and minimizing handling errors. Unlike end load systems that require products to be loaded twice, our top load solutions simplify operations, enhancing overall productivity.

Space and Cost Efficiency

Top load cartoning contributes to overall space efficiency. Palletized carton blanks take up significantly less storage space compared to end load cartons, optimizing precious storage space. Additionally, top load cartons are typically 30% less expensive due to the absence of side seaming or cases. This cost-saving, combined with the superior aging of top load carton blanks, makes our solutions practical and economically viable.

Understanding Carton Bases

There are two main types of carton bases and ADCO machines are well suited for both styles. Each have unique advantages:

  1. Lock Base (Stripper Locks):
  • Pros: Economical with no consumables required, faster forming, and less expensive machinery. Lock base cartons can also be hand-set if necessary and provide flexibility during the folding of cover flaps.
  • Cons: Requires a specific lock design, and specialized forming tooling per carton size.

2. Glue Base:

  • Pros: Economical design with strong bonds, reducing costs on board materials.
  • Cons: Slower forming process due to glue compression, higher machinery costs, the need for consumables, and specialized forming tooling per carton size.

        Product Loading Benefits

        Top load cartoning simplifies the product loading process, offering several key benefits:

        • Products are loaded once, unlike end load cartoning which requires loading twice.
        • The large target opening makes loading easier and faster.
        • Gravity aids in efficiently loading products.

        Advanced Carton Closers

        At ADCO, we offer a range of advanced carton closers designed for precision and efficiency:

        • SLC (Straight Line Carton Closer, Lugless): Redesigned for consistent handling of various carton sizes and weights, the SLC features a servo-powered star wheel and a vacuum belt infeed system. Available in versions for speeds up to 120 and 180 cartons per minute.
        • RAC (Right Angle Carton Closer, Lugless): Compact and efficient, the RAC handles a wide range of carton sizes at speeds up to 120 cartons per minute. It shares many features with the SLC, including the vacuum belt carton metering system and swing-away overhead conveyors.
        • 16B (Right Angle Carton Closer, Lugged): For customers seeking a lower cost mechanical solution for their carton closing needs or for challenging cartons that require lugs to ensure the cover & glue flaps are properly folded & closed. The 16B runs a large carton range up to 80 cartons/minute.

        For more detailed information on our advanced carton closers and to see them in action, visit our Top Load Systems page.

        Conclusion

        Choosing ADCO’s top load cartoning solutions means investing in efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reliability. Our closing machines, such as the SLC, RAC, and 16B , ensure your packaging operations run smoothly, providing the flexibility and performance your products need.

        Learn More

        Ready to optimize your packaging? Explore ADCO’s top load cartoning solutions and find the perfect fit for your operation. Visit our Top Load Systems page or contact us today to discuss your requirements and discover how our innovative packaging solutions can help you achieve your goals.

        Contributing Authors:

        Clare Blodgett - Clareity Marketing

        Colin Warnes - ADCO Manufacturing

        Published:

        August 12, 2024