C27-E

CLEAN FOREVER. CLEVER

Table of contents

CLEAN FOREVER. CLEVER 2

THE TEA BAG STEP BY STEP 4
SIMPLY ECOLOGICAL 6
THE OUTER ENVELOPE 8
TO COMPLETE THE CYCLE 10
UTMOST EFFICIENCY 16
TOP PRODUCT QUALITY 18
A STEP FORWARD TO INNOVATION 19
GENERAL TECHNICAL DATA 20
PACKAGING MATERIAL TECHNICAL DATA 22
 CLEAN FOREVER . CLEVER

Sporting a clean, compact design, the brand new C27-E is a 300

bags per minute packaging solution with knot technology for tea
and herbs, able to process naked bags and sealed outer envelopes,
incorporating a newly- conceived flexible cartoning attachment.

The new C27-E encompasses outstanding, GMP based,

compact design where a significant number of mechanical
elements have been included in the machine main frame
guaranteeing a substantial reduction of overhanging parts ,
a consequent decrease in cleaning operations and times and
also resulting in an important machine width reduction.

◾◾ Sensible machine efficiency increase

◾◾ Significant reduction of wear for parts

constantly in contact with product dust

2
WHY A C27-E
◾◾ Compact design
◾◾ Easy cleaning operations
◾◾ High production efficiency
◾◾ No metal staple
◾◾ No heatsealable filter paper
◾◾ High process control
◾◾ Advanced single bag rejection
◾◾ Hard tag
◾◾ No lubrication
◾◾ Easy access
◾◾ Easy part replacement, no adjustment required
◾◾ User adjustable h.m.i. (human machine interface)

3
 C27-E THE TEA BAG STEP BY STEP

Dosing and filter paper tube forming Filter bag erection

1 2 3 4 12 13 5 15 14

7 8 10 11 16 17 18

4
Knotting group Knot conformity control

MAIN FUNCTIONS
1. Filter paper reel
2. Product feeding and dosing
3. Filter paper tube forming and cutting
4. Bag forming area
5. Cotton thread coils
6. Tag paper reel
7. Tag paper unwinding and cutting
8. Knot group
9. Outer envelope paper reel
10. Outer envelope paper cutting and filter bag insertion
11. Outer envelope heat sealing station
12. Faulty naked bag/envelope rejection
13. Stack formation
14. Flat blank magazine
15. Carton glueing and forming
16. Stack insertion into the carton
17. Carton closing station
18. Carton exit

5
 C27-E SIMPLY ECOLOGICAL

KNOT TECHNOLOGY
The revolutionary idea of the C27-E filter bag, based on a traditional
non heatsealable double chamber bag, guarantees optimum
infusion efficiency enabling the natural tea aroma to flow out.
No metal staple or additional packaging materials are required to fix
the bag to the tag and the cotton thread. Fixing is achieved by two
simple knots – one to fix the cotton thread to the filter bag head
and the other to fix the cotton thread to the tag. This innovative
feature avoids the presence of metallic material during infusion,
whilst guaranteeing, at the same time, a discerning and functional
filter bag. Following IMA’s tradition of flexibility and versatility,
the C27-E offers a wide range of filter bag sizes to suit all product
specifications and market demand.

Filter bag top folding

A TAG TO SUIT ALL TASTES…

The C27-E offers the possibility to run either square, rectangular or
octagonal Hard Tags. Once more the C27-E triumphs by cutting
the edges of the octagonal tag directly on the machine resulting in
a sensible reduction in costs.

6

THE PROCESS
The simple knots that allow the fixing of cotton thread to filter bag
and tag are performed by a highly sophisticated group that has
been designed and tested by the IMA Research & Development
Department.
Both knots, on the filter bag and on the tag, are performed
simultaneously on the same station and are achieved through
synchronised movements of three mechanical elements controlled
Tag paper feeding, cutting and positioning on the filter bag
KNOT OPERATION: COTTON THREAD
FIXING TO THE TOP OF THE FILTER BAG
AND TO THE TAG.
by cams. The successful knotting is controlled by a high precision
video camera, based on an artificial vision work system and
connected to a monitor which allows constant observation of
the function.
Any knot which does not correspond to the prearranged model is
highlighted and memorised and consequently causes the rejection
of the single bag without introducing it into the stacking station.
Krotting group
7
 C27-E THE OUTER ENVELOPE

Outer envelope paper cutting and filter bag insertion Outer envelope cold sealing

SEALED OUTER ENVELOPE

IMA offers the option of individually wrapping the C27-E filter
bag in heat or cold sealed outer envelopes resulting in an airtight
and waterproof solution guaranteeing the preservation of herbs,
flavoured teas and pharmaceutical infusions.
IMA’s high flexibility enables the change from naked bags to sealed
outer envelopes quickly and easily. Various types of materials can be
used on the C27-E to achieve the best packaging solutions.

8
 Outer envelope heatsealing

THE FLEXIBILITY YOU DESERVE PACKAGING MATERIAL SAVING

A variety of packaging materials can be used on the C27-E for the
production of heatsealed and cold sealed outer envelopes, such as
cellophane, opalite and oriented polypropylene.
Faulty filter bags, detected by an integrated sophisticated camera
connected to an HMI, are automatically rejected without being
wrapped in the outer envelope.
This advanced and newly designed rejection system
contributes to increasing savings in packaging material and
machine efficiency increase.

Outer envelope paper alignment

and print registration

9
 C27-E TO COMPLETE THE CYCLE

ALL IN ONE CARTONING ATTACHMENT

To complete the whole production cycle, the C27-E is equipped The cartoning attachment can be combined with the following
with a newly conceived flexible automatic cartoning attachment additional groups:
able to handle
• Cardboard divider unit
• Pre-erected cartons from 1 to 4 rows
• Carton coding unit
• Cartons from flat blanks from 1 to 4 rows.
• Leaflet inserting group.

PRE-ERECTED CARTONS
FROM 1 TO 4 ROWS

10
THE ADVANTAGE OF ELECTRONICS:
FROM COUNT TO COUNT
The IMA C27-E achieves the greatest versatility in the design of its
counting and stacking units. Stacking is controlled by independent
motors which allow a swift electronic count change over avoiding
completely the need of any part replacement and guaranteeing
always the correct number of bags or envelopes in the stacking unit.

11
 C27-E TO COMPLETE THE CYCLE

Cardboard divider unit

CARDBOARD DIVIDER UNIT

The new C27-E can be equipped with a
dedicated unit for the insertion of a cardboard
divider between the bags or envelopes stacks.
The cardboard is unwound from a reel
guaranteeing higher operating time.
A dedicated sensor reveals the absence of
the cardboard divider and sends a signal
that might determine the carton rejection
if foreseen by a downstream checkweighing
unit (not integrated on the C27-E).

12
 Cardboard divider insertion

CARTON CODING UNIT

A rotating, embossing carton coding unit
is available and might be integrated in the
cartoning attachment.
The unit hosts an easy to handle digit holder..

13
 C27-E TO COMPLETE THE CYCLE

The C27-E cartoning attachment permits

flow chart for
the packaging of filter bags in different final
standard Tuck-in
carton styles according to such criteria
closure cartons
as product integrity, personalisation, style
and cost saving.
As well as the standard tuck-in closure
cartons, three further options are also
available:

• Tear Strip Closure carton

• Kurzlaschen Closure carton
• Caddy Closure carton

TUCK IN

flow chart for

Kurzlaschen
closure cartons

KURZLASCHEN

flow chart for

Caddy
closure cartons

CADDY
14
The Tear Strip Closure carton offers a tamper proof security as
well as a re-closable solution.
This carton style requires no overwrapping, therefore
guaranteeing additional cost saving.

The Kurzlaschen Closure carton offers a tamper proof security

as well as a re-closable solution. This carton style reduces
cardboard consumption and does not need overwrapping,
therefore guaranteeing additional cost saving.

The Caddy Closure carton represents the perfect solution for a

more stylish and appealing final package.
This carton is re-closable and remains intact after opening. It is
completely ideal for personalization.

15
 C27-E UTMOST EFFICIENCY

ADVANCED SINGLE BAG REJECTION

Prior to entry into the stacking unit, the revolutionary use of a
sophisticated camera which is connected to an HMI controls
the correct knotting on both filter bag and tag and permits the
rejection of single bags which do not correspond to the predefined
quality standards.
Thanks to the innovative independent motorisation system,
the counting of filter bags is automatically stopped, a correct
bag is retrieved to complete the required count and production
flow proceeds smoothly without any interruption. This unique
system guarantees the highest product quality and at the same
time contributes to savings in packaging material and machine
efficiency increase.

SIngle bag rejection (naked bag)

Faulty filter bags, detected by an integrated sophisticated THIS ADVANCED AND NEWLY DESIGNED
camera connected to an HMI, are automatically rejected
REJECTION SYSTEM GUARANTEES THE
without being wrapped in the outer envelope.
HIGHEST PRODUCT QUALITY AND AT THE
SAME TIME CONTRIBUTES TO SAVINGS IN
PACKAGING MATERIAL AND MACHINE
EFFICIENCY INCREASE.

SET-UP FOR AUTOMATIC

WEIGHT CONTROL
AND ADJUSTMENT
The C27-E can be fitted with a “simple plug”
suitable for connection to a downstream
dynamic checkweighing unit (not integrated
on the C27-E).
The final carton weight can be controlled
on the checkweigher and automatically
adjusted thanks to the automatic weight
control and adjustment system.

16
Single bag rejection with outer envelope Knot conformity control

PROGRAMMABLE CONTROL
The whole working cycle logic and quality control are achieved by a PC, software compliant with
the IEC 1131-3 standards. The use of a PC, as an alternative to a PLC system, represents a great
advantage towards the risk of obsolescence and consequent need for spare part replacement and
software update. . All main machine stations have been provided with a specific product control
device to guarantee the maximum product quality.

THE ELECTRONICS
Integrated video camera to control the correct knotting on both
filter bag and tag.

17
 C27-E TOP PRODUCT QUALITY
VIBRATING PRODUCT FEEDING SYSTEM
The new C27-E is equipped with a vibrating product feeding system
allowing the machine to easily run non free-flowing products
drastically reducing product degradation and thereby preserving
the best product quality.
This system, which is particularly easy to shield with safety guards,
also helps protect the feeding area from risk of cross contamination
during product changeover.
18
DOSING BOWL
Again, the quality of the product is particularly protected in the
feeding process due to the reduced size of the dosing bowl which
contains only a small volume of product thereby reducing its
fragmentation to a minimum.
The choice of the correct materials also plays an important part in the
way the most delicate products are handled inside the dosing bowl.
A STEP FORWARD TO INNOVATION

H.M.I. (HUMAN MACHINE INTERFACE)

The new IMA C27-E responds to the demand for
production monitoring with an improved functionality
PC based H.M.I. able to supply the following data:
• Machine alarms with historical and statistical data
• Predictive Maintenance Management with live progress bar and
historical data
• Constantly updated efficiency data for the operator
• Efficiency calculation shift/batch with historical data
• Daily production and efficiency reports in Excel with shifts/batches.
The interface also provides :
• function display for filter bag conformity control provided by video
camera.

COOLING DEVICE FOR ELECTRICAL

CABINET
With the aim to improve and extend the life of the electronic
components by reducing the presence of fine dust inside the
electrical cabinet, the new C27-E has been fitted with a cooling
system avoiding the use of fans.
This innovation also guarantees a reduction in maintenance times
for regular filter cleaning and replacement.

19
 C27-E GENERAL TECHNICAL DATA

Machine speed:
- Up to 300 bags/minute

Teabag capacity:
- Up to approximately 3,0 grams
- Filter bag maximum volume 9,5 cubic centimeters

Power required of basic machine:

- Total installed power: 16,6 kW
- Maximum power consumption: 5,7 kW
Note: consumption depends on the thermic groups
fitted on the machine

Compressed air:
- Exercise pressure: 6 bar
- Consumption: up to max. 200 Nl/min.

Machine net weight (with cartoning unit):

- Max. 2638 Kg
2353

2212
1920
1670

415

1000 1500 1150

3736
1003

140
422
430
250
450
567,5
680

1372
586
3175

950
100

364
1491

1287
1534
3650
20
21
 C27-E PACKAGING MATERIAL TECHNICAL DATA

PACKAGING MATERIALS AND PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

FILTER BAG SIZE NON-HEATSEALABLE COTTON THREAD COIL SIZE
B
FILTER PAPER REEL A

A
B

D
D

C
C B
A
C

Ends’ number: 3 (without knots)

Average title: 20 Ne.
D

WEIGHT 12 gr/m2
A B C D A B C Ø
B40 60 94 149 76 Max 600 94 A B C D
C
45 60 103 149 76 Max 600 103 Max 31 Max 64 Max 220 140÷180

COTTON THREAD LENGTH ON EACH FILTER BAG CARTON SPECIFICATIONS

FOR FLAT BLANK
L

L (mm) 140
TOTAL LENGTH (mm) 210

TAG SIZE TAG PAPER REEL

A
C
D
B

A
A B C D
A B 152 600

A B WEIGHT gr/m2 THICKNESS (micron)

28 32 min max min max WEIGHT 270 - 320 gr/m2

28 28 180 200 150 180 THICKNESS ≠ 0.35 - 0.45 mm

Data subject to possible technical modifications and not necessarily definitive.

22
 SEALED OUTER ENVELOPE SEALABLE OUTER ENVELOPE
PAPER REEL SIZE
A

E
F
B

D
A

BAG TYPE A B D
66 77 154 WEIGHT 80 ÷ 85 gr/m2
40x60
63 72 144 A D E F Standard
63 72 144 66 154 76 Max 500
45x60 Data subject to possible technical
66 77 154 63 144 76 Max 500
modifications and not necessarily definitive.

CARTONING ATTACHMENT FROM 1, 2, 3 TO 4 ROWS OF BAGS OR OUTER ENVELOPES

CARTON SPECIFICATIONS 1 ROW 2 ROWS 3 ROWS
FOR CARDBOARD DIVIDERS

C C C

B
B

A A A

4 ROWS
Max. 400

C
1, 2 and 3 ROWS
B

B
A

Ø152 A
4 ROWS

CARTON DIMENSIONS
B = carton width - 10 mm
A B C NUMBER OF BAGS OR ENVELOPES
min max min max min max min max
A Standard 30 1 ROW 42 72 61 85 56 205 1 ROW 8 34
B 80 ÷ 195 2 ROWS 84 145 61 85 90 205 2 ROWS 30 68
WEIGHT 270 gr/m
2
3 ROWS 126 212 61 85 100 205 3 ROWS 45 100
THICKNESS 0.30 mm 4 ROWS 165 200 61 72 100 205 4 ROWS 60 100

Technical data for tuck-in cartons only.

23
 June 2018 - 991TH320102
www.ima.it

IMA S.p.A. reserves the right to make any changes to the described machine characteristics.

IMA S.p.A.
IMA TEA & HERBS Division
Via Emilia 428-442 - 40064 Ozzano dell’Emilia (Bologna) - Italy
Tel. +39 051 6514111 - Fax +39 051 6514080
mktg.tea@ima.it