JBT Proseal has achieved a significant milestone with the installation of its 8000th tray sealing machine for its long-time customer Bakkavor Group based in the United Kingdom.
The installation underscores the company’s long-standing commitment to innovation, as well as a new chapter in the evolution of its products, as it replaced the legacy F40 and F45 models that have served the industry for two decades.
The transition from the F-generation machines to the state-of-the-art GTs range demonstrates Proseal's commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability.
Over the years, the F range has undergone two significant upgrades, first with the introduction of the GT range in 2006, followed by the GTs range in 2015. Next year will commemorate 20 years since the last F-generation machine was produced.
Bakkavor operates over 100 inline Proseal tray sealing machines, primarily utilising the GT1 and GT1s models. Its lineup includes a range of machines, from the smallest GT0 to the largest GT6, allowing for versatility in its production processes.
The partnership with Bakkavor goes back more than two decades, establishing it as a long-standing collaboration that has supported its growth and innovation in the industry.
“We are thrilled to receive Proseal's 8000th machine. This upgrade represents a significant step forward for our production capabilities, enhancing our efficiency and sustainability efforts,” said Richard Flatters, UK services manager at Bakkavor.
“Proseal has been a trusted partner in our journey since the beginning, and we look forward to leveraging the advanced features of the GTs machine to deliver even better products to our customers."
This upgrade not only enhances productivity but also aligns with the principles of the circular economy.
Proseal encourages trade-in programs, allowing customers to replace older models with newer, more efficient machines while promoting sustainability through responsible recycling and reduced resource consumption.
“I have personally worked with Bakkavor for over 12 years, starting as its maintenance contract engineer for the London region, then progressing to be its senior account manager, working with colleagues to manage its entire UK account,” said Daryl Henshaw, key accounts manager at Proseal UK.
“During this time, I have had the pleasure of working with hundreds of Bakkavor colleagues across all different levels of the business – from line leaders and maintenance engineers to site directors and group procurement leads.”
As Proseal looks ahead, the company remains dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of the food packaging industry, while prioritising environmental stewardship.
Key Benefits of Upgrading to the GTs Range:
- 3% increase in tray sealer throughput for enhanced speed and efficiency in production lines.
- 94% reduction in compressed air usage – with options for complete reduction, this upgrade supports minimising environmental impact.
- High-force Eseal servo driven seal actuator which offers superior sealing performance and reliability.
- Quick release conveyors which facilitate hygiene and maintenance, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
- Fully programmable HMI with optional RFID login for improved operational control and security.
- Improved tray handling and stability which enhances product quality and reduces waste.
- Enhanced film feed and rewind systems which streamlines packaging processes for greater efficiency.
- Better cleanability and resistance to washdown – supports stringent cleaning protocols in food production environments.
- Service exchange options for key subassemblies which ensures minimal downtime and maximum productivity.
- Compatibility with existing toolsets which allows for a seamless transition from F40/F45 to the GT1s and GT0s machines.
