A global food manufacturer faced a challenge in their production line: inverting round paperboard containers from a cap-down to a cap-up orientation. These 24oz containers, measuring 8 inches by 4 7/8 inches, needed to transition smoothly without the scuffing issues caused by their existing backpressure twist system. Additionally, the solution had to meet dairy-style sanitation requirements for the protein powder, including no hollow tubes or exposed threads, while being mounted to an existing conveyor to minimize floor space usage. Dust in the plant environment further complicated the problem, contributing to scuffing and requiring careful material and finish considerations.
To address these challenges, Morrison’s engineering team developed a customized timing screw system tailored to the customer’s needs. The solution featured an 8-inch OD by 48-inch-long UHMW timing screw designed to handle the containers with a “soft handling” approach. This approach minimized the risk of scuffing through the use of optimized material choices and finishes, providing a gentler interaction between the containers and the equipment.
Recognizing the need for a sturdy and space-conscious design, the timing screw system included a base frame with support legs, providing stability without requiring additional conveyor modifications. The system adhered to dairy-style sanitation requirements, avoiding hollow tubes and exposed threads while accommodating the existing conveyor setup. Morrison collaborated closely with the customer to address the dust challenges in the plant, further refining the solution for durability and effectiveness.
The timing screw system was constructed using UHMW material for the screws to provide durability and a smooth finish ideal for handling sensitive paperboard containers. The base frame and support legs offered robust stability while maintaining a compact footprint to align with the existing conveyor. Morrison prioritized material finishes and sanitation requirements, providing compliance with dairy-style guidelines without the need for stainless steel or washdown capabilities.
Morrison’s custom timing screw solution successfully addressed the customer’s container handling challenges, delivering:
• Elimination of scuffing issues: The soft handling approach, combined with precise material and finish choices, reduced scuffing caused by the previous backpressure twist system.
• Enhanced operational efficiency: The custom timing screw system enabled seamless inversion of containers, improving the overall flow of the production line.
• Sanitation compliance: The design met dairy-style requirements, supporting the customer’s stringent production standards.
• Space optimization: By mounting the system to the existing conveyor and minimizing the need for additional floor space, the solution aligned perfectly with the customer’s operational constraints.
This project underscores Morrison’s commitment to delivering tailored solutions that solve complex container handling challenges, providing smooth operations and long-term efficiency for our customers.
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