Tray Forming

For corrugated cardboard trays that form the base of a secure, retail-ready load, enlist the aid of a tray former. A tray former is a machine which uses can erect trays used in case erecting and packaging applications. The tray erector can fold, form, and glue trays, which can then be filled, loaded and sealed. Tray formers are stationed at the end of the production line and can be integrated with case erectors and other case erecting equipment.

Different tray formers are compatible with different style trays and tray sizes and operate at different speeds depending on machine. Tray formers may be available with automatic tray loading or top loading configurations, and with floor footprints to suit your space.

Tray formers for any style trays

• End slotted
• Side slotted
• Design style
• Four-corner
• Produce/mushroom
• Triangular corner
• Self-locking
• Two-piece telescoping
• RSC style flaps
• Flange flaps
• No flaps

Securely glue trays

Hot melt glue is a common sealing option that creates a strong bond; tray forming machines can fold end flaps and seal them securely with hot melt systems. Tray forming machines ensure square sides and tightly glued seals, adding consistency to this step of your production line.

In a tray former machine, the process begins with a magazine full of die cut tray blanks. These tray blanks are pushed or pulled through the machine individually (sometimes using vacuum cups) and are formed with a mandrel. The machine’s sides keep the tray’s edges in place, and hot melt glue is applied to the flaps as the blank moves through the machine. The tray former molds the tray, the glue sets, and the newly formed tray is moved along a conveyer to the next step in your production line.

There are vertical and horizontal tray formers, and different machines can handle different tray sizes and sealing or locking mechanisms. In addition to hot melt glue, you can also choose automatic locking or self locking trays, in which tabs are folded and inserted into slots, holding the sides of the tray in place. The overall effect is the same: a perfectly formed and sealed tray, each identical to the next for a consistent result.

Automatic tray formers can easily be integrated into your existing production line. Combine them with case erectors, case labelers, case packers and other end-of-line equipment to create a custom packaging line for your product, then take advantage of the easy changeovers when it’s time to switch.

You can quickly change tray sizes and blanks to suit production. Changeovers can be performed in seconds with some models, so you won’t lose valuable time. Plus, our machines are heavy-duty and designed to work around the clock, so your business operates on your timetable, not your machine’s.

Forming up to 40 trays per minute (depending on model) within a small footprint, tray formers are a powerful way to improve efficiency without sacrificing floor space. They also free up your team from forming trays by hand, reducing labor costs, and some models are designed to consumer less power, too, which cuts down on operating costs.

Operator-friendly, our tray formers are built with quality materials and construction for durability that lasts. They use precise servo motion controls for steady, accurate placement and formation, creating a packaging solution that’s reliable and fast—one you can depend on for years to come.

Accelerate your growth! Get your products to your customers faster with an automatic tray former. High speed, automatic tray forming machines allow you to erect trays with precision, load them and seal them, all in less time. Automatic tray formers provide more throughput with less hands-on operation, freeing up your team and reducing labor costs.

Food and beverage industries, pharmaceuticals, home goods, and many other industries benefit from automatic tray formers, which provide a consistent, efficient, and cost-effective way to package products that are retail ready. Your customers in turn will enjoy secure shipments and consistent, high-quality results, keeping you top of mind for next time.

Whether you’re looking for high-volume, high-speed, flexible configurations, or increased strength and stability in your packaging, we have the automatic tray former for your needs.