Wexxar Bel has a well-earned reputation for machinery that is durable and reliable. In fact, Wexxar machines built more than 30 years ago are still operating with customers today. But one area that Wexxar sometimes does not get enough credit for is innovation. Snap Folder technology is a perfect example of Wexxar innovation at its finest.
Snap Folders are a Wexxar patented folding technology used on the BEL 250, 252, and 270 fully automatic case formers for folding the trailing minor flaps. The motive behind Snap Folder technology was to create a safe, effective folding mechanism targeting the trailing minor flap, all while preserving the machine’s small footprint. Traditionally, folding the trailing minor flap on a case sealer was a challenging task due to mechanical design limitations. Other methods used a “kicker” to knock down the flap, but these machines were heavily guarded for employee safety, which greatly increased its footprint.
The answer proved to be Snap Folders, an innovative design that safely folds the trailing flap with no guarding required. When a box travels through the machine, the Snap Folder operates by lightly and quickly hitting the trailing minor flaps to fold the corrugate without the risk of damaging the box or harming the operator.
While providing an effective means to fold the trailing minor flap, Snap Folders are also safe for operators working the machine. Snap Folders’ curved design and light spring activation and retraction eliminate pinch points – even if an operator has their hand within the Snap Folder, the spring-loaded activation poses no harm. This safe, pioneering design eliminates the need for bulky guarding to encapsulate the machine and preserve its small footprint. These factors contribute to Wexxar machines meeting strict compliancy standards for safe operation in Canada and other parts of North America. Finally, Snap Folders’ open design also provides great access when maintenance is required.
Snap Folders are just one of many engineering innovations that distinguishes Wexxar Bel as the go-to OEM supplier for case and tray forming and sealing solutions. Creating safe, effective packaging with the BEL 250, 252, and 270 fully automatic case formers is a snap with Wexxar Bel.
Adrian Tomozei is a Regional Sales Manager covering Canada and the Northwest Region of the United States. He can be reached at Adrian.tomozei@promachbuilt.com.