Pyramid Packaging is making plans to move forward with the expansion of its current headquarters at 2901 Shermer Road, south of Willow Road. Company owner Bob Ploen says that he selected the Northbrook location in 2013 because the one acre lot was ideal should the growth of his business require more space. The two-part expansion will involve more than doubling the size of the current building to 13,500 square feet to accommodate continuing business growth. Ploen estimates the first phase of the project is expected to begin over the summer with the construction of a new 8,092 square foot building 12 feet south of the current building. In phase two, the company plans to move into the new structure, tear down its current building, and add another 5,440 square feet.
Category: Blog
Protective Packaging Solutions
Innovative protective packaging solutions can enhance your company’s image with internal packaging that showcases your brand and demonstrates a commitment to environmentally responsible packaging, while minimizing the size and weight of the overall package for lower shipping costs. Air pillows are available in Earthware recycled or biodegradable blends that are tinted green for customer awareness; or choose custom printed air pillows with your company branding.
Properly packing your products for shipping is critical to reducing damages and returns. With proper packaging methods and materials, you can ensure your products reach their destination in perfect condition. Automated Packaging Systems manufactures a full line of AirPouch inflate-on-demand protective packaging products for a variety of uses.
Our protective packing and void-fill air pillow products offer high quality alternatives to traditional peanut, foam, paper packing and bundle bubble materials, by saving warehouse space, packing time and shipping costs. Special packaging materials should be used for special product shipping. Items like electronics and electrical components often require anti-static materials, such as our AirPouch Anti-Static film. We offer a full line of high-quality bubble, air-pillow and tube materials for your specialized needs and our AirPouch specialists will help you determine the best products for your operation.
About Pyramid Packaging
Est. in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services. We are a supplier Autobag bags, bubble wrap and void fill packaging supplies. Contact us at 847-272-3400 or [email protected].
LoveShaw Case Study
LoveShaw Case Study – CF-5 Semi-Automatic Case Former & LD-3SB Case Sealer
An authorized Little David distributor was asked to visit a national co-packer to evaluate the benefits of a box former and a case sealer. The company was interested in increasing throughput by eliminating the existing manual process. The operators were hand erecting and bottom taping the box, inserting a partition, placing 4 pouches of product in the box and manually sealing the top of the box.
The equipment proposed needed to be mobile, as it would be moved frequently for use in multiple lines, and operator friendly for frequent case size changes. In coordination with Loveshaw’s Regional Sales Manager, an onsite demonstration of the CF-5 with LD-3 SB extended drive case sealer with three flap folder was conducted at the facility.
Challenges presented:
1. The manual process of erecting and bottom sealing was slow and inefficient.
2. The weight of the product was heavy; 18-20 lbs. per pouch with 4 pouches in a carton. The machine needed to be industrial grade.
3. The top sealing was slow and inefficient.
Results:
The CF-5 secured and squared the case; the operator inserted the partition, and placed the pouches into the box. The operator was only required to tuck the rear minor flap and the LD-3SB with 3 flap folder folded the remaining flaps then top and bottom sealed the box. Manager noted 66% increased throughput on the line due to the investment in Little David equipment.
To provide maximum use for the machinery in the facility, quick release brackets and castors were installed so the customer could use the LD-3SB on other production lines when not running the pouch line. The combination worked out well for the customer and they are impressed with the robustness and consistency of the Loveshaw system.
CF-5 Performance Features:
1.PLC driven: monitors and controls each step in the flap folding process providing precise, repeatable sequence
2. Three points of safety: all three photo eyes need to be blocked at same time to activate
3. Operate from either side
4. No lubrication needed
5. Made with heavy duty steel and stainless steel
6. Case range: Length: 8″ – 26’5/ Width: 5″ – 20″/ Height: 3″- inf. Narrow box option of 3.5″
7. Compact Footprint: Length: 44″ / Width: 34″ /Height: 33″
8. Speed: operator dependent
9. 110 VAC, 60 Hz single phase, 2 Amp
10. Air requirements: 6.5 SCFM
LD-3SB LITTLE DAVID PERFORMANCE FEATURES:
1. Speed: 76 fpm
2. Case Range: Length: 3 – Inf / Width: 4 – 20 (narrow box option of 3″) / Height: 4″ -24″ (high mast option up to 34″)
3. Compact Footprint: 32″ x 33″ x 59″
4. Easy to operate
5. Single mast design for safety, quick, easy case changeover: slide and lock height and width wheel adjustment
6. Durable: Built with heavy gauge steel to last in the most demanding 24/7 operations, front and rear horizontal leg braces for added stability.
7. CAC60 Case Locker Tape Cartridge with five patented features
Types of Flexible Packaging Films
Pyramid Packaging is a supplier of pre-opened poly bags in a wide range of film types for virtually any bag packaging application. Deciding on the best flexible plastic film for your packaging application can be a complicated process. There are many variables to consider in order to best display and preserve your packaged product. Different poly bag materials are used for their unique characteristics, including clarity, strength, opacity, barrier properties, printability, puncture resistance, and other industry specifications. There’s a right tool for every job and there’s a correct bag for every packaging application. Pyramid Packaging can help you select which of the following types of films & variables are required for your packaging application. Some material types include films for mail order bags, mil spec bags, UV resistant bags, anti-static bags and much more. Below are common types of flexible packaging films used.
Film Types:
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1. Linear Low Density Polyethylene – offers superior strength and durability
- 2. Low Density Polyethylene Films – the industry standard for strength and flexibility
- 3. High Density Co-ex Blend Polyethylene Film – additive-free bag material with good clarity
- 4. Polypropylene Film – excellent clarity and strength for retail bag packaging
- 5. Polyester Laminated to Linear Low Density Polyethylene – offers excellent stiffness and gloss for maximum brand impact
- 6. Anti-Fog – ensures bagged contents remain visible from condensation
- 7. Barrier/Co-extruded Films – specially designed for resistance from aroma, gases, flavors and solvents
- 8. Opaque Films – fully opaque, UV-resistant films protect and conceal contents military spec compliant films – waterproof and greaseproof packaging that meets mil spec compliance
- 9. UV Protective Films – protects bag contents from ultra-violet rays
- 10. Static Dissipative Films – designed to dissipate static build-up in the bag
- 11. Rust/Corrosion Inhibitor Films – corrosion-resistant bags protect contents against rust
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12. Specialty Films – engineered films for unique bag packaging applications
Autobag’s DATA Count U-162 Counters
Autobag’s DATA Count U-162 Counter integrated with the Autobagå¨ 500㢠bagger is specifically engineered to fully automate the high-speed counting and packaging of bulk small products. It is a compact, flexible and cost effective system designed with advanced counting technology from DATA Technologies and innovative product engineering from Automated Packaging Systems.
Capable of counting up to 25,000 objects per minute, this hopper and vibratory feed track system uses an advanced mathematical algorithm to ensure high levels of accuracy. Utilizing the very latest technology, the DATA Count U-162 is capable of detecting variable shaped products from 0.5 ÛÒ 25mm in size.
When used in conjunction with the Autobag 500 bagging system, a bulk supply of product is driven down the feed tracks and into a state-of-the-art vision-based system, where it is automatically counted to a pre-set quantity. The counted product is then funneled to a pre-opened bag, sealed and dispensed, while another bag is presented for loading. Genuine Autobag pre-opened bags-on-a-roll are system-matched for optimum performance. The system and bags are backed by the industryÛªs most comprehensive engineering and field service network.
Established in 1968 & headquartered in Northbrook, IL, Pyramid Packaging is an ISO 9001:2008 compliant supplier of flexible packaging films. Our packaging sales engineers can help you select the best film design and construction for your packaging application. Click here to contact Pyramid Packaging for more information.
Flexible Packaging Films
Flexible packaging films are used to package, preserve and protect a variety of items such as fresh foods, dry goods, pharmaceutical and consumer products. The films are used to make poly bags/pouches, stretch wrap, shrink wrap, bubble wrap and void fill supplies. Flexible packaging supplies provide several advantages because they are lightweight resulting in lower shipping cost, moisture resistant, and require less storage space over their rigid packaging counterparts, an are inexpensive to produce.
Flexible films start off as plastic pellets. Most plastic packaging films are blown films. Plastic pellets are fed into an extruder where they are melted and ejected through a circular blown film die. The melted plastic forms a continuous tube, which is inflated and cooled. Plastic film rolls can be printed & laminated to optimize graphics. They have superior barrier properties and excellent sealing characteristics. can be placed on different types of packaging machinery in order to maximize productivity.
There are many different types of flexible films available. Deciding on which type depends on your application. The most common type of films are polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyolefin, PVC, and polyester. Polyethylene shrink films are often used to wrap bottled water, canned goods and other heavy objects. ItÛªs ideal for wrapping large & bulky items during transit. These films are so strong they can replace corrugated boxes. Polypropylene is a general-purpose shrink film often used to wrap retail items. It shrinks at low temperatures while providing durable seals. Polyolefin is a clear film that shrinks evenly in all directions. This film allows scents to permeate it. Since it requires high temperatures to shrink the film, itÛªs often applied with a shrink-wrap machine, which increases productivity and allows items to be bundled together. Polyolefin films are used to wrap retail items, food/snacks and literature. PVC shrink films have high strength with good clarity and gloss. ItÛªs used to package software items such and CDs, DVDs & Blue-ray discs but also used to wrap books, toys & food items. Polyester (PET) is a tough, durable plastic, which is used or flexible pouches, and barrier films.
Established in 1968 & headquartered in Northbrook, IL, Pyramid Packaging is an ISO 9001:2008 compliant supplier of flexible packaging films. Our packaging sales engineers can help you select the best film design and construction for your packaging application. Click here to contact Pyramid Packaging for more information.
Food Metal Detectors
Food metal detectors are used for consumer protection. The consequences for a food related packaging company that is not using metal detectors can include lawsuits, recalls and hurt their brand image. Parts of the food processing and packaging equipment like nuts, bolts or metal shavings can possibly fall off an accidentally be packaged with the food items. Metal particles that enter the product during the production process can also cause serious injuries. Food X-Ray machines metal detectors will automatically detect & reject contaminated product from the production line. Loma food x-ray detectors will provide effective protection against metal as well as non-metal contaminants.
Textile Packaging Equipment
Autobag’s new Ergocon Textile Packaging System is engineered specifically for high speed packaging of industrial laundered applications and textile rental services. The laundry packaging system uses an automatic feeder, fully integrated with the Autobagå¨ AB 255㢠wide bagger, to inspect and package up to 7,000 towels per hour.
The inspection and packaging operation begins by loading the bulk feed bin with clean towels or other industrial laundered items. Loading can be done while the system is operating.
Items are automatically fed from the bin to the pick conveyor for separation, and are then conveyed to the inspection area. After inspection, towels continue down the conveyor, pass through a counting eye, and are automatically delivered to an open bag at the AB 255.
This commercial laundry equipment sets the pace of production. Speeds are adjustable to run slower for items requiring tighter inspection or faster to achieve high production rates.
The user-friendly control panel allows storage and recall of up to 14 jobs with load building capabilities, real time productivity data, onboard diagnostics, and more. Optional features include a performance indicating light stack, laser level control system, reject count system, and an extended 71Û discharge conveyor. When used with genuine Autobag pre-opened bags, the Autobag Ergocon Textile Packaging System offers high-quality, reliability and flexibility for the commercial laundry industry.
Self Propelled Stretch Wrapper
Highlight’s self propelled Fantom stretch wrappers give you the freedom to wrap loads anywhere in your facility without sacrificing consistency and film savings. The semi-automatic controls make wrapping varying sized loads simple and easy. The self-propelled load tracking design means that products of any weight, length, or width can be wrapped an eliminates the need to move unstable loads. This powered pre-stretch system provides greatly increased film savings and performance. The on-board battery pack allows you to wrap 200 – 300 loads on a single charge. For more information on a self propelled stretch wrapper watch the video below or contact Pyramid Packaging at 847-272-3400 or click here.
PackExpo
The Pack Expo show took place Nov. 6-9 in Chicago. The show gives us an opportunity to meet with many of our suppliers since most exhibit at the show. It also gives our packaging engineers the chance to see the latest in packaging equipment, films and supplies that may benefit our customers. Pack Expo is worldÛªs largest processing and packaging event for the year. Check out our Pack Expo slideshow of companies that we represent.
Created with flickr slideshow.
Automated Packaging System – PackExpo 2016
If you plan on attending PackExpo 2016 Chicago be sure to visit the Automated Packaging System’s exhibit located in McCormick Place’s South Hall #2438. Pyramid Packaging has been representing Autobag’s line of packaging supplies and equipment in the Chicagland area for over 50 years and was recently selected as their Distributor of the Year.
Free Registration
Please click the ÛÏRegister NowÛ to be taken to the Pack Expo registration page. You will need to enter 88N72 in the box labeled ÛÏcomp codeÛ during the registration process in order to have the fee waived. This is available online only: not valid on-site.
Check out what they’ll have at the show!
end
Why Use Anti-Static Shielding Bags
Anti-static shielding bags are used to store, transport and protect electronic components and printed circuitry boards. The bags will protect electronic items from damage when electrostatic discharge occurs. Static electricity occurs more often when there are low amounts of moisture in the air. Anti-static bags have a thin microscopic layer of water molecules at the film’s surface which reduces the chances of a discharge from taking place. Additionally, controlling the humidity level of a room will reduce static electricity. Anti-static bags are commonly made from low density polyethylene (PE) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and have a pink or silver metalized color.
To create the anti-static effect, the bags are slightly conductive, which creates a Faraday Cage around bagged item which avoids any discharges from being deposited onto the item. Anti-static bags will dissipate static electricity so it cannot create electrostatic discharge (ESD) whereas a static shielding bag blocks the ESD. Pyramid Packaging is a supplier of the following types anti-static bags:
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anti-static reclosable/ziplock bags
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anti-static flat poly bags
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anti-static tubing
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conductive flat bags
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conductive bags reclosable/ziplock
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conductive tubing
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static shielding bags
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cushioned static shielding bags
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reclosable/ziplock
- available in clear, pink, various sizes and thicknesses
About Pyramid Packaging
Est. in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services. We are a supplier of stock and customized anti-static shielding bags. If needed, our experienced packaging engineers will work with you to develop a customized anti-static poly bag based on your design specifications (size, thickness, closure type, graphics). Call us at 847-272-3400 or [email protected].
Choosing the Right Poly Bag
Choosing the right poly bag (film) for your packaging application can be a confusing process. If you’re not familiar with packaging films, you may think they are basically all the same but nothing could further from the truth. Poly bags come in different styles, materials, thicknesses, blends, barrier properties and available in loose pack and rolls.
Bag Types
Poly bags are also known as poly and plastic bags. They are commonly used of packaging applications. Poly is short for polyethylene which is the material they are made from. They are used for bagging foods, produce, dry goods, magazines, chemicals, and also for storage. The most popular types of poly bags are layflat, gusseted, and zip lock.
Lay flat plastic bags work great for packaging products and protecting them from dust, debris and fingerprints. These bags provide a barrier of protection during shipping and storage. As the name implies, the bag lays flat and does not expand beyond the natural elasticity of the plastic.
Gusset poly bags have sides that expand. The bags are made from polyethylene and come in various thicknesses (1 mil to 4 mil) and sizes for various packaging applications. They are used to package industrial, hardware, food, and healthcare related items. Gusset bags are available in loose pack and rolls. The bags are an ideal packaging solution for irregular shaped items. Since the sides expand, they will conform to the shape of your box product.
Zip lock bags provide secure locking zipper which provides an excellent way to keep out foreign substances that may damage a product. Due to its reclosable feature, it is easily reusable and is great way for keeping out moisture, and dust.
Poly films also come in tubing and sheeting which allows you to customize its lengths.
Bag Materials
Poly bags come in an array of materials that including but not limited to LDPE, HDPE, PP and PET. Variables like the films clarity, oxygen and moisture barrier rates will help decide on which film type is best for your packaging application.
Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) packaging films are inexpensive, have good clarity and often are used to package fresh produce, frozen foods, and baked goods. Artwork can be added to give the produce a customized look.
High density polyethylene (HDPE) packaging films are found in many of the same applications as LDPE and LLDPE. It is stiffer and more rigid than many other PE films. HDPE has good moisture barrier properties and is resistant to grease and oils. HDPE is often used inside a box to preserve its contents, such as cereal bags or cake mixes.
Polypropylene (PP) films are soft, clear have good moisture barriers and high oxygen transfer rates. PP films are commonly used with bakeries and food markets. These films are similar, but less flexible than LDPE films.
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) films are durable, heat resistant films with very good oxygen barrier properties. When PET films are laminated with metal foil (MET PET), it will increase the oxygen-water barrier and block UV rays. Metalized films for flexible packaging are essential when the product requires extra protection to ensure a longer shelf life. MET PET films provide protective properties for food requiring restricted visibility.
About Pyramid Packaging
Established in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services. We create value by working with clients who need help in selecting and customizing their packaging films. Pyramid Packaging can customize your plastic packaging films & barriers according to your blend, size & graphic design. Call us at 847-272-3400 or [email protected].
Something Smells Good
Oxygen transfer rate (OTR) allows a flexible packaging film to either reduce or allow the smell of an item to penetrate the film at a certain temperature. OTR is the amount of oxygen that penetrates a given area in one day. However the relative humidity can affect barrier properties of certain films. Plastic films with a high OTR are used to package fragrance soaps, and other products where the consumer would want smell the item before purchasing. Often, the smell of an item will help sell the product while protecting it from moisture, dust and handling. If an item has an undesirable smell like pet foods or fishing bait, a film with a low OTR would be used in order to reduce or eliminate its odor. Some foods require a very low OTR that keeps oxygen out in order to extend its shelf life. Different films types like PE (most permeable), PP, and MET will all have different OTR rates.
If you need help in selecting the right packaging film for your product, contact Pyramid Packaging. Est. in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services. We create value by working with clients who need help in selecting and customizing their packaging films. Call us at 847-272-3400 or email us at [email protected].
Amazon FBA Packaging Supplies
Many businesses are now selling their products on Amazon and using their FBA (fulfillment by Amazon) to send it directly to the customer. Amazon FBA does have requirements on how the items need to be packed. If they are not packed properly, it can create delays in the items getting into Amazon’s inventory. Using the correct packing material ensures your shipment moves quickly through the Amazon fulfillment center. Amazon recommends using bubble wrap, inflatable air pillows and not to use peanut packaging, crinkle wrap or shredded paper. They also recommend that if poly bags with an opening of 5″ (measured when flat) or larger is used, are required to have a suffocation warning, either printed on the bag itself, or attached as a label. The bags also need to be transparent, and must be a certain thickness.
Sure you can easily get some of your packaging supplies from a UPS Store, Home Depot or Walmart. If you are packaging a substantial amount, you can save money by buying in volume from a company like Pyramid Packaging. We are supplier of on poly bags, bags on a roll, shrink wrap, stretch wrap, demand bubble wrap, air pillows and carton sealing tape. Established in 1968 Pyramid Packaging is a value-added, and ISO 9001 compliant supplier of packaging machinery, supplies, and services. Click here to contact us or call 847-272-3400.