Innovative robotic packing machine for punnets and clamshells

At Fruit Logistica 2022, TOMRA Food released a new robotic packing machine for punnets and clamshells - KETE16. On April 21, this invention also will be showcased at the South American Blueberry Convention in Mostazal, Chile.

The KETE16 automates the process of placing clamshells and punnets into trays, cases, boxes, and crates, integrating seamlessly to match the capacity and speed of the filling machine, the CURO16.

According to Paul Slupecki, Head of Global Sales TOMRA Fresh Food at TOMRA Food, the industry hasn’t seen before such abilities as the KETE16 has. There is no other robotic packing machine that can accommodate different pack types at high speeds. This machine is flexible to case size, punnet size, and pack orientation, and makes it easy to change between various types of packs. This will minimize downtime, boost productivity, and deliver certainty in each pack.

Joshua Miers-Jones, Global Category Director for Blueberries, said that the KETE16 integrates with their CURO packing system, known for its precision and gentle product handling, and which can switch between various types of packaging such as punnets and clamshells. 

The KETE16 can match the capacity of the CURO16-head Fill by Weight, and has been manufactured to be easily set up, and change between package formats and calibers. Its design enables it to pick up and put clamshells to the tray and avoid at the same time the risks inherent to suction methods that can open lids and compromise the product.

The KETE16 was created at the TOMRA Field Research Centre in Hamilton (New Zealand) and validated at 2 of the largest blueberry packing sites in New Zealand. The KETE16 is an ideal machine for the packing industry, as it eliminates an unnecessary contact point and provides certainty that you will deliver a consistent product at speed.

If you want to learn more about new solutions by TOMRA Food, send your inquiry