With an output of up to 100 pallets per hour each, three MSK Tensiontech stretch hood machines in the Niedernberg logistics center of Gries Deco pack hand-picked items on pallets for dispatch. As each pallet load is different in terms of dimensions, weight and contour, MSK installed scanner frames in front of the packaging machines. Using light grid technology, these recognize the geometry of a load and transmit signals to the PLC control of the stretch hood, which automatically calculates the correct hood length, stretch thickness and stretch dimension of the film as well as the type of enrobing process. "By recognizing the highest point of a load and its contour, even extreme shapes such as a vertically protruding broomstick can be packaged without any problems," explains Uwe Jonkmanns, Head of Sales & Marketing at MSK: "The system adjusts both the tension of the film and the hood coating." MSK enabled an efficient changeover from stretch wrapping technology to stretch hood technology. "We are very satisfied with the stretch hoods. Due to the good quality, there is a high level of system availability and we would use MSK equipment again if we were to expand the system," reports Mirko Schmitt, Head of Technology at Gries Deco. He adds: "The cooperation also works very well in the area of maintenance/support."

High-performance system in the tightest of spaces
The three MSK stretch hood systems at Gries Deco work in a confined space. A special MSK process for prefabricating the film hood during the scanning of a pallet ensures the high output of 100 picked Euro pallets per hour. MSK Tensiontech stretch hood stackers also have a machine head that can be lowered to working level, which significantly simplifies the necessary maintenance work and minimizes maintenance times. Another advantage is that the film rolls are replaced outside the protective grid area, so that rolls can be changed without stopping the machine.

Stable and economical packaging
Gries Deco uses a 40 Mü stretch hood film to pack its shipping units. "The thin film is ideally suited thanks to the customized hood cover and offers the loads high stability with low film consumption," explains Uwe Jonkmanns. "Wrapping with a stretch hood is a suitable alternative to shrink-wrapping for low load weights, which is otherwise often the more stable solution for under-palletized pallets." In order to find the right packaging solution, MSK carried out two packaging tests together with Gries Deco, in which the stretch hood solution proved convincing. For internal pallet handling by conveyor systems and forklift trucks, the systems were also equipped with the MSK collar stretch method, in which the film is deposited on the top board of the pallet so that the pallet feet remain free of film.
The MSK stretch hood systems in Niedernberg have been operating for five years without any faults and to the satisfaction of the logistics provider.

On-site personnel are generally only required to replace the film rolls. MSK service technicians service the systems twice a year. The machine manufacturer reduces maintenance costs by using maintenance-free toothed belt technology. "We are particularly pleased that Gries Deco enables us to make reference visits with interested parties. These visits have also enabled other logistics companies to see the performance of the systems for themselves on site," adds Jonkmanns. MSK also offers a 24-hour on-call service, even during the Christmas period. Particularly in seasonal periods with high throughput and additional non-technical support staff, on-site technical support available around the clock is crucial. The simple operation of its systems is particularly important to MSK. The manufacturer has developed software specifically for this purpose. The MSK EMSY visualization software is precisely tailored to MSK machines. It reduces the training time for personnel and simplifies any troubleshooting.