Sealed Air® has added a new compact paper cushioning system to its ProPad® range, which seamlessly integrates into fast-paced conveyor lines and work cells, where space is limited.
The new ProPad® Mini creates custom-length fanfold paper pads at high speeds, on demand. It can run one- or two-ply paper made from FSC® certified, 100% recycled fibres* and is ideal for protecting both lightweight and heavy, small-sized products and to fill tight voids.
Eric Van Der Kallen, EMEA Portfolio & Marketing Director at Sealed Air, commented: “The ProPad® Mini is designed to be small in size and big on performance. It can create up to 36m protective paper pads per minute**, making it suitable for low to medium volume fulfilment lines.
“It’s a really versatile and quiet system that’s easy to set-up and use. The ProPad® Mini can be configured to run on a table, shelf or floor, and a touchscreen HMI (Human Machine Interface) enables operators to quickly adjust pad lengths in just a few touches.”
Operators can customise the system’s set-up to suit their requirements and optimise pack station space. Users are able to select from six adjustable dispensing-head angles, a swing arm mount, a rolling or stationary mount, a shelf mount and a foot pedal. The ProPad® Mini also features a magnetic connector that allows users to choose where they want to attach the HMI touchscreen to the system or stand.
Eric added: “Space is often at a premium in fulfilment centres, and small pack stations can compromise ergonomics and productivity. ProPad® Mini’s small footprint, multiple configurations, easy loading and low maintenance are all designed with operators in mind to make it extremely user friendly.”
The release of the ProPad® Mini follows last year’s introduction of the ProPad® Horizontal, which is designed for working directly over pallets to save valuable floor space. The system can create up to 95 custom-length fanfold pads per minute (based on 30cm sized pads), with advanced automation helping to minimise downtime.
Protective paper pads produced by ProPad® systems can be reused or kerbside recycled, where appropriate services are available.
Eric concluded: “Packaging sustainability plays a big role in how consumers feel about a product. It can elevate the unboxing experience, strengthen brand loyalty and encourage repeat purchasing. Our ProPad® systems help operators to seize these opportunities, while also meeting their goals to improve operational performance throughout fast-moving, high-density fulfilment centres.
“Expanding the ProPad® range of paper cushioning systems is another step in Sealed Air’s drive toward circular-economy innovation across our entire portfolio. We’re continuing to engineer new paper, suspension and retention, inflatable and speciality foam protective packaging solutions that make sustainability a practical and cost-effective part of supply chains.”
*Paper pads are made from 100% recycled fibres (85% post-industrial and 15% post-consumer materials).
**Based on 30cm fanfold paper pad lengths.