Case erectors play an important role in industrial packaging lines. The right case erector can improve the efficiency, reliability, precision, and speed of the box preparation process, significantly contributing to the overall success of a business’s packaging line.
However, each business has different packaging requirements. If you want to expand your packaging capabilities by purchasing a new or used case erector, it’s essential to learn more about the different types of case erectors and determine which model is right for your business.
What Are Case Erectors?
Case erectors are packaging machines designed to automatically assemble and seal flat-packed cardboard or corrugated boxes. This equipment picks up the flat box, forms and folds it into the proper form, and seals the bottom with tape or glue. After assembly, the box is ready to be packed with product.
By automating the process of forming flat boxes into ready-to-use cartons and eliminating the need to complete this process by hand, case erectors help save on labor costs, provide speed and efficiency, reduce material waste, and ensure the end product is consistent and high-quality.
Types of Case Erectors
There are many different types of case erectors, and each machine has its own specifications that set it apart. Types of case erectors can generally be grouped by automation level and by sealant type.
Manual Case Erector
Manual case erectors require an operator to manually form, fold, and assemble the box before placing it on a conveyor belt to be sealed. This type of case erector is more common in smaller production environments.
Semi-Automatic Case Erector
Semi-automatic case erectors automatically form, fold, and assemble the box but require operator intervention to load the case onto the machine. Semi-automatic machines are ideal for packaging lines with higher production rates that are looking for increased efficiency but do not need the speed and production capability of a fully automatic machine.
Automatic Case Erector
Automatic case erectors automate the entire assembly process at high speeds, eliminating the need for human intervention to form, fold, or seal the box. These machines are perfect for large-scale packaging lines that require advanced precision, speed, and efficiency.
Glue-Sealing Case Erector
Glue-sealing case erectors automatically seal the assembled boxes with glue. The glue seal provides an extra layer of security and stability to help keep the box intact during transportation.
Tape-Sealing Case Erector
Tape-sealing case erectors automatically seal the boxes with tape after assembly. With this feature, boxes and cases are protected during transportation, and the risk of damage or tampering is minimized.
How to Choose a Case Erector: 5 Factors to Consider
Investing in the right case erector machine is essential to building an efficient, productive packaging line. Consider these factors as you choose the case erector that best fits your unique packaging requirements.
1. Budget
A budget is an important determining factor when choosing a case erector. Consider your case erector budget—not just the cost of the machine but also training, maintenance, delivery, installation, and other hidden costs—to limit your search to machines that you can afford.
Selecting a repaired, refurbished, or reconditioned case erector to save money on a high-quality machine.
2. Speed
Evaluate how quickly a potential case erector can assemble and seal boxes and compare it with your business capability and volume of work. Make sure the case erector can handle the number of boxes you need it to during a specific time frame.
3. Automation Level
Do you need a manual, semi-automatic, or automatic case erector for your packaging line? While an automatic case erector is best for high-volume productions, semi-automatic or manual machines may be a better fit for smaller operations.
4. Seal Type
Case erectors with sealing capabilities use tape or glue to seal assembled boxes before product insertion. Consider which sealing method makes the most sense for your packaging line—it’s mostly a factor of preference, as both methods are effective.
5. Case Material & Size
The size and type of box you want to assemble will impact which case erector you choose. The good news is that most case erectors are designed to handle a wide range of sizes and accommodate common materials. However, if the shape or size of your cases is irregular or if the case material you use is uncommon, confirm that the case erector is up for the task before purchasing.
Buy New or Used Case Erectors at HP Packaging
At High Performance Packaging, we buy and sell used processing and packaging equipment for many different industries. Our high-quality machines have been repaired, refurbished, or reconditioned by the experts on our team, giving old equipment new life and making it ready to contribute to your production line.
As a leader in the processing and packaging machinery industry, we are proud to offer used packaging equipment from a wide variety of manufacturers, types, and styles that meets your sanitation and quality standards. Whether you want to replace a machine on your production floor or expand your current product packaging capabilities, HP Packaging can help you find the best packaging equipment for your business.
View our used packaging products or contact us today to learn more about your packaging equipment options.
