Case Equipment

A Look at Automated Box Assembly

In the fast-paced world of packaging and shipping, efficiency is everything. One key piece of equipment that drives productivity is the case erecting machine – an automated solution for quickly and accurately assembling cardboard boxes from flat blanks.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What is a case erector?” or “How do case erecting machines work?” This blog post will answer those questions and more.   

How Case Erecting Machines Work

At their core, case erectors use an automated system of rollers, folding plates, and guides to transform flat cardboard blanks into 3D boxes or cases in a matter of seconds.

The process works like this:

1. The machine feeds a cardboard blank from a magazine 
2. It squares and positions the blank
3. Folding plates and guides bend and crease the blank
4. The sides are folded, and the bottom flaps secured
5. A fully erected box is output, ready for packing

This automated box forming happens in a seamless cycle, enabling case erectors to rapidly assemble boxes at rates of hundreds or thousands per hour.

Benefits of Automated Box Erecting 

Implementing case erecting machines delivers numerous benefits over manual box assembly, including:

• Higher Productivity & Throughput – Companies can significantly boost output with one operator running multiple erectors.
• Reduced Labor Costs – Automated erectors minimize staffing needs compared to manual erecting.  
• Improved Worker Safety – Eliminates repetitive motion injuries from manually forming boxes.
• Consistency & Accuracy – Machines ensure precise and uniform box forming for product protection.  
• Versatility – Modern erectors can handle a variety of box sizes and styles like RSCs and HSCs.
• Sustainability – Optimizing cardboard usage reduces material waste and carbon footprint.

Popular Case Erector Models 

Some of the most widely used industrial case erecting machines include options from top brands like:

• Wexxar case erectors (e.g., BEL 505, BEL 516, BEL 350SF)
• Combi case erectors
• Pearson case erectors 
• EMC case erectors

Quality case erectors provide years of reliable, high-volume automated box erecting with proper maintenance. For businesses shipping products, they are an essential piece of packaging equipment.

Whether you currently use manual box assembly or older erecting machinery, investing in new case erecting technology can streamline operations and pay dividends.