Correct air humidity solves packing problems for Vin&Sprit

Background

V&S Group is the leading producer and distributor of wines and spirits in Northern Europe, and one of the world’s 10 largest international spirits companies. The Group has a wide range of brands and sales in some 125 markets. The biggest brand, ABSOLUT, is regarded as the world’s third largest premium spirits brand.

Problem

One of the Swedish production plants is in Åhus, southern Sweden. During the winter, V&S had serious problems in the packing process due to the low relative air humidity in the packing hall. The dry air altered the shape of the cardboard sheets which were used to make boxes. The packing machine is extremely sensitive to changes in shape, the result being excessively high cardboard wastage.

Solution

A Munters FA6 air humidifier with step regulation was installed in the packing hall’s ventilation system. From a previous level of 15-20% RH, the relative air humidity is now 50%, which has eliminated the problems of shape changes in the cardboard sheets and removed the static electricity build-up. Cardboard wastage has also been reduced. The heart of the Munters’ FA6 evaporative air humidifier comprises of humidification cassettes with a water distribution system. The humidifier is specially designed to be integrated into any manufacturer’s air handling unit.

Facts

The benefits of installing an FA6 air humidifier are:

• A constant, regulated air humidity in the packing hall – cardboard sheets retain the correct structure.
• No static electricity that can cause machine stoppages.
• No chalk dust spread in the air, which can otherwise settle on walls and machinery.
• The air humidifier has a low power requirement (50-250 W).
• Excellent adjustability.
• Easy maintenance and low running costs.