Bericap introduced DoubleSeal SuperShorty CSD Eco closure, which allows a resin saving of nearly 25 percent compared to standard PET finishes, the company says. The closure is suitable for mineral water and carbonated soft drinks, and it provides safe venting on large bottles up to 5-liters in size. Bericap’s DoubleSeal SuperShorty CSD Eco closure uses fewer raw materials, which reduces the packaging cost and helps the environment, the company says.

- Bericap, California 1671 B Champagne Ave., Ontario, Calif. 91761; 909/390-5518; bericap.com.

Palletizing basics

Columbia Machine Inc. introduced the “Science of Palletizing,” an educational book about the basics of unit-load forming. The materials are designed to familiarize customers with the fundamentals of palletizing, the company says. The book includes updated information from the three previous editions: “The Science of Palletizing,” “How to Pick the Right System,” and “The Science of Palletizing, Volume Two – Systems.” The latest edition features new chapters with the most recent trends in conventional and robotic palletizing, palletizer accessories, multiple line solutions and tips on how to select the right system.

- Columbia Machine Inc., P.O. Box 8950, Vancouver, Wash. 98668; 800/628-4065; palletizing.com.

Microfiltration equipment

Koch Membrane Systems Inc. offers a full line of spiral sanitary microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration and reverse osmosis elements manufactured with the company’s winding equipment. The line includes Super-Cor, Super-Cor XL, Super-Cor XL Plus and Super-G Plus modules. The new XL series in the Super-Cor product line features 12-foot tubes; the Plus series contains modules with more tubes per housing; the Super-Cor XL Plus modules have 37 half-inch diameter tubes vs. the 19 half-inch tubes in the standard product; and the Super-G Plus modules feature nine 1-inch diameter tubes vs. four in the standard product. The company also offers new microfiltration high-frequency cartridges for the wine industry.

- Koch Membrane Systems Inc., 850 Main St., Wilmington, Mass. 01887; 888/677-5624; kochmembrane.com.

Rear air suspension

Kenworth Truck Co. launched Hendrickson’s Primaxx EX heavy-duty vocational rear air suspension. Primaxx EX is available in 46,000 pound tandem, 52,000 pound capacity and 69,000 pound tridem configurations. The system features structural beams that integrate the cross beam attachment points. It is available at Kenworth Truck Co. on a variety of chassis including C500, T800 and W900 models. Primaxx EX also features a new frame hanger and torque rod configuration.

- Kenworth Truck Co., Box 1000, Kirkland, Wash. 98083; 425/828-5000; kenworth.com.

New vocational trucks

Peterbilt Motors Co. introduced two new trucks, Peterbilt Model 337 and Peterbilt Model 348. Peterbilt Model 337 is a medium-duty vehicle for pickup and delivery for beverage and foodservice. Model 337 has an ergonomically designed driver display package that features a gauge package, which includes vehicle performance data located at the top of the dash. The truck also includes a new HVAC system to improve air flow. Peterbilt Model 348 is a multi-dimensional performer with gross vehicle weight beginning at 35,000 pounds and optional capacity rating for nearly any specialty vocation. Model 348 is available in truck or tractor configurations, and offers vocational options such as FEPTO, REPTO and application specific transmissions including hybrid configuration. The model is available with two PACCAR engines. Model 348 is constructed in an aluminum cab, with a new lowered and slanted side window beltline to increase views outside the passenger window. Model 348 also has a new electrical system to simplify wiring behind the dash.

- Peterbilt Motors Co., 1700 Woodbrook St., Denton, Texas 76205; 940/591-4000; peterbilt.com.

Pleated cartridge

Argonide Corp. released NanoCeram-LR, high-performance pleated filter cartridges specifically engineered and designed to replace lenticular filters. NanoCeram-LR filter cartridges contain the company’s patented non-woven filter media matrix infused with nanoalumina fibers, which creates an electropositively charged depth filter. When assembled into a pleated cartridge, the product offers a combination of capacity, flowrate and low pressure drop, the company says. NanoCeram technology yields Silt Density Index values averaging less than 0.5 and turbidity levels less than 0.01 when incorporated into a pleated cartridge. The line also includes optional NanoCeram-PAC technology, with the same dimensions but providing powdered activated carbon integrated in the media.

- Argonide Corp., 291 Power Court, Sanford, Fla. 32714; 407/322-2500; argonide.com.

Seam measurer

CMC-Kuhnke Inc. released the CSG-2360, which adds a complete 360 degree profile of the critical seam thickness measurement to the CSG series of gauging. The CSG-2360 provides automated seam thickness and countersink depth measurements for standard double seam inspections. Operators can switch to 360 mode when thickness issues arise that require a complete seam thickness profile of a can, the company says. The equipment can be used to locate and measure compound bubbles. The gauges use automatic can rotation and measurements to cut double seam inspection times. Result and gauge operations are displayed on a TFT touchscreen. In addition, results may be printed to a serial printer or may be transferred to a computer database for up to the minute statistical process control quality analysis.

- CMC-Kuhnke Inc., 1060 Broadway, Albany, N.Y. 12204; 518/694-3310; cmc-kuhnke.com.

Data-collection software

Invensys Operations Management introduced its Wonderware Intelligence Software 1.0 solution. The product enables customers to contextualize, aggregate and report both historical and operational data using role-based dashboards, presenting performance indicators and real-time operational business metrics used to monitor, tune and optimize operations and supply chains. The formatted information is saved for reporting and analysis, which allows end users to create and publish dashboards. The solution acquires data not only from Wonderware, but also MES, InBatch and Historian. The company also introduced Wonderware Corporate Energy Management Application, which connects directly to meters on a network and enables users to monitor energy usage.

- Invensys Operations Management, Portland House, Bressenden Place, London, SW1E 5BF; 020 7834 3848; invensys.com.

Compact brewhouse

Krones AG released the CombiCube B, a compact brewhouse for specialty breweries. The product is ideal for small and mid-tier breweries who intend to modernize their kit, the company says. It also is aimed at breweries with larger annual outputs who wish to produce seasonal and specialty beers in a separate brewing process, independent of their principal brands. The maximum of four vessels in the compact brewhouse can be used either as a mash kettle, a mash/wort copper, a lauter tun or a mash/lauter tun, complemented by the whirlpool. The prefabricated piping system is integrated into the frame-based construction.

- Krones AG, 9600 S. 58th St., Franklin, Wis. 53132; 414/409-4000; kronesusa.com.

Bulk bag filler

Spiroflow Systems Inc. redesigned its C1-2 Bulk Bag Filler. The C1-2 now has a new one-touch programmable controller designed to increase filling accuracy and cycle speed, the company says. It also has an automatic gain in weight adjustment to monitor and compensate for any weight variation, and can fill up to 20 bags per hour. Additional options include a power height adjustment, retracting bag hooks, filling nozzle and inflatable mechanical seal, liner inflation device, roller bed and electric or pneumatic vibrators. The C1-2 Bulk Bag Filler is ideal for companies who seek National Type Evaluation Program resale approval, the company says.

- Spiroflow Systems Inc., 2806 Gray Fox Road, Monroe, N.C. 28110; 704/291-9595; spiroflow.com.

Browser software

LXE Inc. expanded its relationship with Wavelink to include pre-loading and pre-licensing Wavelink Terminal Emulation and Wavelink Industrial Browser software. LXE now can deliver Wavelink licensed software, enabled for its mobile computers, directly for its Norcross manufacturing facility. Wavelink Terminal Emulation certification on LXE Windows Mobile and Windows CE-based mobile computers also enables the use of Wavelink Speakeasy plug-ins for rapid deployment of LXE devices in voice logistics applications. The company is including the first year of Wavelink maintenance free with the purchase of Wavelink Terminal Emulation or Industrial Browser licenses from LXE.

- LXE Inc., 125 Technology Pkwy., Norcross, Ga. 30092; 770/447-4224; lxe.com.

Rotary keg line

KHS AG celebrated 30 years of the Contikeg, a fully automated rotary keg line. The machine supplements the range of fully automatic line equipment and semi-automatic machines for keg washing and filling. A package of peripheral machines for turnkey keg systems also is included in the KHS keg equipment. Advantages of the Contikeg include low space requirements, less wiring, increased ease of maintenance and a minimum number of machine operators, the company says. The line also uses Ethernet technologies, and communication within the system takes place in real time. In addition, authorized machine operators can supervise processes online.

- KHS AG, Juchostrasse 20, Dortmund, Germany 44143; 49 231 569-1339; khs.com.

Reduce door damage

APS Resource released Flex-Back Panel, which helps eliminate bottom door panel damage by flexing upon impact and returning to it normal operating position, the company says. It is constructed of a high-impact polymer skin and flexible tube frame, which helps eliminate damage to bottom door panels and reduce door maintenance costs. The Flex-Back Panel replaces most industrial section bottom door panels and installs using standard/existing door hardware. The panel comes standard with a grip lifting handle, and the perimeter gasket seals give the door thermal properties to save on energy costs. The product is available in 8 foot 2 inches, 9 foot 2 inches and 10 foot 2 inches.

- APS Resource, 6219 West Eastwood Court, Mequon, Wis. 53092; 262/518-1000; apsresource.com.

Program for performance

Conco Systems Inc. launched Total Condenser Performance, a service for power generation customers. The program focuses on eliminating tube related forced outages and improving condenser efficiency through the coordination of service on a regular maintenance schedule, the company says. Total Condenser Performance features tube cleaning, eddy current and leak detection services delivered through a patented system by Conco. The company also created a brochure, “Total Condenser Performance,” to promote the new service.

- Conco Systems Inc., 530 Jones St., Verona, Pa. 15147; 800/345-3476; concosystems.com.

Dock lifts

Kelley Co. offers its Hulk Hydraulic Dock Lifts that are suitable for loading operations that service a range of truck styles or have space restrictions, the company says. The products are available in either galvanized or stainless steel. Hulk Hydraulic Dock Lifts can move loads up to 50,000 pounds and can accommodate any truck style from 20-inch step vans, pick-up trucks and less-than-truckload deliveries to high-cube vans, standard semi-trailers and 60-inch high stake bed vehicles. The lift-mounted controls give pinpoint control to set the platform at the exact position for a level interface between truck and dock. In addition, the lifts can be pit or surface-mounted inside the building or in front of the loading dock. The hydraulic system also has an upper travel limit switch to prevent damage to the unit.

- Kelley Co., 1612 Hutton Drive, Suite 140, Carrollton, Texas 75006; 800/558-6960; kelleycompany.com.

Full-height shrinksealer

PDC International Corp. introduced the 60 Series Evolution Shrinksealer, a mid-speed shrinksleeve and labeling system for manufacturers doing continuous production. The machine applies full-height bodysleeves with primary graphics and tamper evident banding. The applied labels are compatible with jars, bottles and other products, and the labels also are designed to extend over the cap with a horizontal perforation for consumer tamper evidence. Features include the use of two servos for product handling and sleeve registration. The 60 Series applies shrinksleeves as neck bands around the upper portion of a container and its closure, or as full height safety seals. The machine operates at 50 to 170 containers per minute with maximum speeds dependent on package dimensions. Sleeve diameter range is .375 to 3.25 inches and sleeve height ranges from .625 to 8 inches.

- PDC International Corp., 8 Sheehan Ave., South Norwalk, Conn. 06854; 203/853-1516; pdc-corp.com.

Added tamp module

ID Technology added a tamp application module to its Model ST1000. Model ST1000 has a modular design, and is ideal for the application of a range of sizes and shapes of pressure sensitive labels. The ST1000 also can be used for recessed areas, indexing lines and variable speed lines. The equipment has an anodized aluminum construction, a touch-screen display and an ambidextrous left-hand and right-hand design.

- ID Technology, 2051 Franklin Drive, Fort Worth, Texas 76106; 888/438-3242; idtechnology.com. 

On/off valve

Parker Fluid Control Division introduced Industrial Climate Control Solution, which offers an on/off valve with terminations that plug into trucks’ auxiliary equipment to regulate heating and cooling systems. When plugged into the system, Industrial Climate Control Solution helps extend the life of the engine by eliminating the need for idling, a primary source of emissions, the company says. The two-way normally closed or normally open valve is available with an orifice diameter of 0.5 inch of larger. The new valve operates with a Cv factor of 4.0 or better and features bubble-tight internal and external leakage. Constructed of brass, the solution is assembled with FKM and fluorocarbon seal material. The valve’s electrical capabilities allow for 12 volts of direct current and 11 to 16 watts of power consumption.

- Parker Fluid Control Division, 95 Edgewood Ave., New Britain, Conn. 06051; 860/827-2300; parker.com.

Heat-formed tubing and hose

New Age Industries offers heat-formed tubing and hose to eliminate fitting connections, the company says. The parts are custom designed and produced using heat and special tooling. With a heat-formed shape, only one part is needed instead of separate parts that must bend around or through other equipment or machinery. A range of shapes are possible, such as single elbows and curves to parts involving coiled sections, flared ends, and multiple twists and bends. Materials that can be heat formed include PVC, polyurethane, nylon and other thermoplastics. Unreinforced tubing and braid reinforced hose may be used. Other customization includes thermally-bonded tubing, hose assemblies, coiling, cutting, printing and dip molded tubing.

- New Age Industries, 145 James Way, Southampton, Pa. 18966; 215/526-2300; newageindustries.com.

Supplier News

In March at The Work Truck Show, St. Louis, the Green Truck Summit will run for a full day and a half. The summit offers 25 educational sessions on topics such as choosing clean technology based on drive cycles, controlling fuel consumption, reducing emissions, obtaining green grants and comparing alternative fuel sources. The full agenda is available at ntea.com.

Peterbilt Motors Co., Fort Worth, Texas, received the 2009 Clean Air Champion Award from the North Texas Clean Air Coalition for the second consecutive year. The company also won the Innovative Business of the Year Award from the coalition. Peterbilt Motors also announced that it will participate in the 2010 Mid-America Trucking Show in March at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Ky.

Kenworth Truck Co., Kirkland, Wash., announced that it will participate in the 2010 Mid-America Trucking Show in March. The company will showcase new Kenworth truck models, PACCAR engines and new services from PACCAR Financial and PACCAR Parts for 2010.

The company also relocated its parts facility in Rock Springs, Wy., to a larger parts and service location near U.S. Interstate 80.

In addition, Kenworth Truck Co.’s manufacturing facility in Renton, Wash., was selected to participate in a co-sponsored U.S. Department of Energy and Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance project to provide input toward development of an international energy management standard for manufacturing plants.

Swisslog Holding AG, Schweiz, Switzerland, formalized an agreement with Target Corp., Minneapolis, to design and implement a new picking and storage system.

Six experts from Tompkins Associates, Raleigh, N.C., launched the Supply Chain Information Technology (SCIT) Blog as a platform for informing, provoking and discussing issues in the areas of SCIT.

Owens-Illinois Inc., Perrysburg, Ohio, began supplying glass bottles to Honest Tea at the end of 2009. “As a company, we have a very high commitment to minimizing our environmental footprint while at the same time meeting the USDA’s organic standards,” said Seth Goldman, TeaEO of Honest Tea, Inc., in a statement. “O-I glass offers superior protection for the delicate flavors of our beverages and is 100-percent recyclable, making it an excellent packaging choice for our products.”

Amcor Ltd., Melbourne, Australia, announced a binding offer to acquire certain parts of the operations of Alcan Packaging. The acquisition is conditional based on clearance by antitrust and competition authorities in the United States, European Union and other approvals.

Graham Packaging Holdings Co., York, Pa., announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary Graham Packaging Co. completed its offering of $253.4 million aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes due 2017.

Sidel, Norcross, Ga., expanded the training facilities at its North America Zone headquarters in Atlanta. The area provides an additional 4,800 square feet for hands-on training in lifecycle management and equipment demonstration.

Graphic Packaging International Inc., Marietta, Ga., was named 2009 winner of the Carter Holt Harvey Beverage Award at the annual Australia Packaging Award competition, conducted by the Packaging Council of Australia. GPI earned the award for its four-pack paperboard wrap on behalf of Ruski Lemon Range Multipacks.

Superfos, Taastrup, Denmark, entered into an agreement to sell its U.S. business, Superfos Packaging Inc. to Berry Plastics Corp., Evansville, Ind. Berry Plastics will pay approximately $82 million, including assumed debt, for Superfos Packaging. The transaction is expected to close no later than mid-February.

Printpack Packaging Co., Atlanta, opened a new production facility in Suzhou, China. The facility will produce shelf-stable thermoformed rigid plastic containers, and will supply packaging to new and existing Prinkpack customers in the Asian region.

SIG Combibloc GmbH, Linnich, Germany, joined the Global Forest and Trade Network operated by the World Wide Fund for Nature in order to promote forest management that encompasses social, economic and environmental aspects in equal measure, working at an inter-company level on a global scale.

Crown Holdings Inc., Philadelphia, was honored with five Best in Metal Awards from the Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association. Crown Specialty Packaging Europe and Crown Closures Europe also were recognized for their designs created for a range of consumer products.

Siemens Industry Inc., Alpharetta, Ga., announced the seven schools that received in-kind donations of automation equipment and software as part of the Siemens Automation Cooperates with Education program. The schools include Alexandria Technical College, Pennsylvania College of Technology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Kellogg Community College, Old Dominion University, Western Colorado Community College and College of the Sequoias.

People News

Ball Corp., Broomfield, Colo., named John A. Hayes president, effective this month. Hayes remains chief operating officer and joins Ball’s board of directors.

Orbis Corp., Oconomowoc, Wis., named Mark Gorzek vice president of finance. Gorzek is succeeding Bill Ash, who was named president.

Siemens Industry Inc., Atlanta, announced that Walt Staehle has been named head of Vertical Marketing Management for the North American Food & Beverage market.

ESE Inc., Marshfield, Wis., named Joe Trygar vice president of sales. Trygar will be responsible for heading up national sales for the organization, and driving growth for the company’s family of Q5 Near Infrared Analyzers.

The Aluminum Association, Arlington, Va., elected Kevin Kramer, president of Alcoa Growth Initiatives to serve on the Association’s board of directors and appointed to the board’s executive committee.