Why collation matters
The sleeve sealer needs the product group to arrive in a repeatable position. If bottles, cans or cartons move before the film is sealed, the finished pack will vary even if the sealer and tunnel are correctly set.
Collation can be manual, semi-automatic or automatic depending on production volume and pack format.
Side-feed and inline routes
Inline sleeve sealers work when products can travel straight through the machine in the required pack arrangement. Side-feed systems can be useful where products need to be pushed, grouped or squared before entering the sleeve wrapping route.
The best layout depends on pack count, product stability, line speed and available space.
Data needed to plan collation
Send the product size, product weight, required pack pattern, current conveyor arrangement and target output. A short video of products arriving from upstream equipment can be especially useful.
Lancing can then consider whether the project needs simple guides, product spacing, a side-feed system or a wider packaging line solution.
Quote route and specification checklist
| Collation detail | Effect |
|---|---|
| Pack pattern | Determines grouping and guide requirements. |
| Product shape | Controls stability and movement risk. |
| Infeed speed | Affects spacing and timing. |
| Available footprint | Determines inline or side-feed feasibility. |