SICK reduces costs for South African packaging process operations with automated machine communication

Sensor specialist, SICK collaborated with packaging giant, Tetra Pak, when it sought a solution that would prevent unscheduled downtime in its packaging plants, maximising productivity and reducing operating costs. The solution has enabled Tetra Pak to carry out condition monitoring and predictive maintenance more efficiently.

To address Tetra Pak’s requirements, SICK recommended the utilisation of its sHub sensors with EDS/EDM35 feedback system. This motor feedback system incorporates an acceleration sensor and enables comprehensive condition monitoring of electrical drives on a machine. It monitors position and speed as well as measuring vibrations, for example. Equipped with HIPERFACE DSL® infrastructure, the sHub sensors are easily integrated.

The sensors enable a self-optimised process that detects acute issues, allowing for early intervention and preventative maintenance. It’s not possible to forecast component failure with a high degree of accuracy. This increases the reliability of drive systems in any packaging processing plant for effective and efficient function, through its connected devices and machines. For instance, SICK can predict ball bearing failure, a critical component in a servomotor that is statistically the leading cause of motor failure.

“SICK is proud to have participated in development of revolutionary technology during the 4th industrial revolution. Packing processing plants can now maximise their return on investment through optimised technology to enable early intervention and avoid unscheduled downtime,” Grant Joyce, Managing Director, SICK.