While major companies are investing in bigger and faster equipment there is a squeeze on smaller producers who don't have the capitol to streamline their operations at the same pace. This has prompted machine designers to develop products with multiple functions for smaller and medium sized firms.

Bradman Lake said its integrated cartoning system (ICS) is capable of forming cartons from flat blanks either with or without hinged lids, lock style or four corner glue cartons. It can also open pre-glued cartons.

ICS's features include lightweight carbon fibre lock tools, adjustable glue tools, powered carton hopper and the ability to quickly adjust to size changes, the company claims.

The loading module is available in single, double and triple race track formats, with each track capable of handling up to 300 packs per minute, the manufacturer claims.

The closing module features rubber fingers for carton control and quick size change performance, claims the company. This module can handle cartons with a hinged lid, front flap glue or tuck-in, separate lid closure, and the folding or gluing of 4 upper flaps.

The machine is adaptable to different sizes of packaging and can process a variety of carton materials, the company claims.

The small footprint and modular setup allows the system to fit into small spaces and adapt to requirements for both the feed and discharge of products and cartons, claims Bradman Lake.

The Bradman Lake Group has headquarters in the UK and manufacturing sites in North America and Europe.