optimization

• The use of carton set optimization helped DHL save between 5% and 7% on annual shipping costs when tested in e-commerce warehouses across three industries, according to a paper published in the Journal of Business Logistics last October.
• Carton set optimization helps a manager determine how many different container sizes it should have in an operation and what size those cartons should be to help minimize empty space.
• The practice of carton set optimization has become increasingly important, as carriers charge shippers based on dimensional weight, according to the p

Plastics are exceptionally useful materials for packaging and all kinds of consumer items, but poorly managed plastic waste contributes to land and ocean pollution. This problem can, in principle, be prevented by recycling (Fig. 1). However, many plastic products were not designed for mechanical recycling, which involves melting and reprocessing, and therefore produces lower-quality material than the original plastic.

A plant’s compressed air system serves functions, driving machine movements and other uses throughout the glass packaging manufacturing process.

It’s among a plant’s more energy-intensive systems, but the new computer software helps the system work more efficiently and decreases electricity demand. Decreasing demand also saves on a plant’s energy costs.

Previously, a plant’s six to 10 compressors would operate independently.

But the new software creates efficiencies by linking a plant’s air compressors as a network.

Available on iPhone and iPad (iOS) devices, the PolyApp allows users to prepare orders and perform dimensional calculations for the specific product (rolls or boxed) being designed, manufactured, quoted, or purchased.

Calculations are all made within a matter of seconds after the specifications are entered, Polykar said.

App tools include: liner dimension, weight/1,000, film thickness, order planning, yield (roll OD and footage), and blow-up ratio.