Matrix also presents the new high-speed Apollo intermittent-motion form-fill-seal machine. Both the Morpheus and Apollo are built on the companys next generation platform that features small footprint, high-speed operation, PC-based architecture with the latest in servo motion control, and PackML compatibility. (Matrix Pack Expo Booth N- 5321)

Saukville, WI October 20, 2014

Matrix Packaging Machinery, powered by Pro Mach, introduces at Pack Expo, November 2-5 in Chicago, the new Morpheus box-motion vertical form-fill-seal machine capable of speeds of up to 180 bags per minute at widths ranging from 2 to 12 inches wide. (Matrix Pack Expo Booth # N- 5321)

The company also showcases the new Apollo high-speed intermittent vertical form-fill-seal machine rated at speeds of up to 150 bags per minute. Both machines are based on the companys next generation servo motion control platform, which debuted at Pack Expo 2013 with the introduction of the Metis intermittent/continuous motion form-fill-seal machine. The machines in this new family feature small footprint to conserve floor space, high speed for greater throughput, Beckhoff PC architecture for advanced servo motion control, and PackML compatibility for fast start up and ease of operation.

The Morpheus is designed for films requiring higher dwell time in order to create a perfect seal. The machine provides manufacturers with complete control of dwell time regardless of speed. One of the most unique features of the new machine is that it accommodates such a wide range of package widths - one machine, in effect, doing the work normally required of two. Advanced engineering is responsible for the distinctive sealing jaw that can accommodate high-speeds, a range of width sizes, and longer dwell times. The space saving 36-inch wide frame is a plus for any packaging room.

The new Apollo form-fill-seal machine comes in the same 36-inch wide frame as the Morpheus. The intermittent-motion Apollo has a rated throughput of up to 150 bags per minute and accommodates films that do not require higher dwell times to properly seal. It produces bags from 2 to 11 inches wide.

The New Matrix Platform for Next Generation Form-Fill-Seal Machines

In the design of the new platform, Matrix engineers compared a number of control hardware and software solutions. A Beckhoff PC based solution out-performed the others in terms of high-speed, precise motion control. This PC-based control system ensures off-the-shelf availability of PC hardware and ever increasing processing power as the PC industry progresses. The system features the open EtherCAT communication network for effective communications with other machines and business systems.

The control architecture is PackML compliant, which speeds up system integration and operator training as well as facilitating consistency in operation across PackML compliant machines. A 15-inch operator interface offers capabilities similar to a tablet computer, allowing operators through touch and swipe actions to call up the screen most helpful to them and to have several screens open at one time. The HMIs capabilities are designed to aid operators in maintaining high overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and quality packaging.

Vacuum pull belts improve performance. This upgraded handling of a variety of films offers marketers greater packaging options and is a hallmark of the new platform. Tool-less changeover simplifies operation and helps increase uptime. The machines open design facilitates fast cleaning.

For more information on the innovative Matrix Morpheus, Apollo, and Metis, stop by Pack Expo booth N- 5321, call 888-628-7491, and visit http://www.MatrixPM.com.

About Matrix

Matrix Packaging Machinery is an industry-leading manufacturer of vertical form-fill-seal (v/f/f/s) packaging equipment. Since 1988 Matrix has built a solid reputation for delivering rugged, well-engineered, cost competitive, and easy-to-use packaging systems backed by outstanding customer support. Matrix has machines in operation throughout the world, handling a wide range of products in very diverse conditions. http://www.MatrixPM.com

About Pro Mach

Pro Mach is a leading provider of integrated packaging and processing products and solutions for food, beverage, consumer goods, pharmaceutical, and other diverse companies. Through its brands, Pro Mach provides product packaging and processing equipment, PMMI certified training, installation, parts, and service in Bottling & Capping, Primary Packaging, Flexible Packaging, Material Handling, Identification & Tracking, and End-of-Line Packaging.

Pro Mach has a diverse customer base, from Fortune 500 companies to smaller, privately-held businesses worldwide, which depend on reliable, flexible, technologically advanced equipment and integrated solution sets. Pro Mach is headquartered near Cincinnati, Ohio, with manufacturing facilities and offices throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe. For more information about Pro Mach, visit http://www.ProMachInc.com.