For highly efficient packaging processes

Packaging systems must operate quickly and reliably. Rack-and-pinion gearboxes from Leantechnik are ideally suited for driving these machines: they operate at speeds of up to 3 m/s, are highly robust, and offer a long service life. Furthermore, the gearboxes fit easily into the confined spaces typical of packaging systems.

High-precision rack-and-pinion gearboxes from Leantechnik are used in packaging machines from leading manufacturers—such as the systems produced by Illig packaging solutions GmbH. The company manufactures thermoforming systems for producing trays, bowls, and lids. The rack-and-pinion gearboxes actuate the machines' pre-stretching units and clamping frames, which secure the film being processed and mechanically pre-stretch the heated plastic.

Illig chose Leantechnik gearboxes due to their long service life (at least 20,000 operating hours), customer-friendly maintenance intervals, and flexible mounting options. The compact design of the rack-and-pinion gearboxes was also a key factor, as packaging machines often have limited installation space. "Our gearboxes feature a very compact design because the guide and drive mechanisms are housed within a single casing," explains Sven Schürmann, Marketing Manager at Leantechnik.

Packaging systems also typically require a Z-axis. This is the case with the wrap-around tray packer from machine manufacturer Schäfer & Flottmann: the system folds the cardboard blank directly around the product—creating either shipping packaging or a retail display tray. Inside the machines, *lifgo* rack-and-pinion gearboxes convert the rotary motion of the motor into a linear lifting motion, which is used to feed cardboard blanks from a magazine into the packaging system.

Leantechnik’s high-precision rack-and-pinion gearboxes are available in two versions and various sizes; the *lifgo* series is exceptionally robust thanks to its quadruple roller guide system. It offers a positioning accuracy of ±0.05 mm, a repeatability of ±0.02 mm, and a lifting speed of up to 3 m/s.

In contrast, the lean SL rack-and-pinion gearboxes were developed for simple synchronous positioning tasks that do not require the absorption of lateral forces. They achieve a lifting speed of 0.6 m/s and, for applications in the packaging and food industries, can be supplied with a thin-chrome coating upon request.

In addition to individual rack-and-pinion gearboxes, complete lifting and positioning systems are also available. Marketed under the name Leantechnik SYSTEMS, these units are custom-engineered and comprise mounting components, steel structures, motors, and the necessary control technology. The product range includes gantry systems and lifting tables, as well as pick-and-place and shuttle systems. Leantechnik has also recently begun manufacturing XY tables.