Leading global manufacturer of print and packaging technologies, Bobst has revealed the latest addition to its lineup, the new Expertfold 165 eCommerce version. Indeed, the larger version of the high-tech Expertfold 145 l 165 folder-gluer is now available with innovations for digital retail.
Already featuring a highly configurable and modular design, delivering unmatched flexibility and versatility, two new modules have been added to the 165 version – Polyvacuum and Gyrobox. Their objective is to add value under the pressures of eCommerce. Already available for the Masterfold 170 and 230, these two unique modules have been customized for the Expertfold 165 and are now available on this flagship for the folding-gluing of litho-laminated boxes. The launch demonstrates the Bobst approach to product development, meeting the changing needs of converters head-on.
Polyvacuum was designed to unlock versatility. Bespoke upper transports allow the installation of external application tools, while the lower vacuum transports ensure extremely stable transport of the blanks. Polyvacuum allows fitting special folding devices and in-line applicators of strips and self-adhesive tapes needed for eCommerce boxes.
Gyrobox is a system that can pivot blanks at any angle from 0° to 180° in the running direction. Gyrobox rotates boxes that normally require two passes in one pass, enabling converters to keep pace with heightened eCommerce demands. The system can rotate left to right or right to left, allowing even complex boxes to be run at speeds of up to 250 meters a minute. Even when Gyrobox is not used, blanks can be folded and glued without any hindrance at full machine speed. This unique module enables the fast and cost-efficient production of specialty boxes, further increasing the potential for diversification, together with Polyvacuum.
Bobst’s new 165 version to meet the needs of digital retail
Pierre Binggeli, product line director folder-gluers at Bobst, comments, “Across the retail sector, there has been an unmistakable surge in eCommerce as shoppers quickly turned online during the pandemic. This brings added pressure onto brands and converters they rely on. As ever, we evolve our products to meet the needs of converters right here, right now and in the future. With the Expertfold 165 eCommerce version, we’re offering a dedicated evolution of our tried and tested machine with additional tools for digital retail.”
A rapid turnaround from clicks to delivery is essential to sales and the customer experience. The right machinery in place can therefore make all the difference. “Expertfold 165 eCommerce produces a wide range of boxes in a single production line, with efficient production even for complex boxes. The technology has simple handling for shorter make-ready and more uptime, adding more value for the converter. As with all Bobst machines, complex technology is made simple with an operator-friendly user interface with a simple setup. We are pleased to bring a new powerhouse machine to the market and demonstrate why Bobst is the go-to name for packaging innovation,” concludes Pierre Binggeli.
Able to support digital transformation for packaging converters, the machine is equipped with Matic automation technology and remote control. The swift setups and changeovers are also due to the fact that the entire folder-gluer and the different modules are managed through an HMI, allowing users to save and retrieve settings on-demand. Ready for the transition to Industry 4.0, the Expertfold is already available with Helpline Plus and Bobst Service Apps, allowing remote access for fast and effective production monitoring and assistance. Indeed, the new Expertfold 165 eCommerce version meets the need for diversification and productivity while also providing cost-efficient, future-proof converting.
