The widespread use of pneumatics technology for packaging machines—to drive motion and actuate machine sequences—has garnered more interest by machine designers and end users as to how pneumatics can improve safety and safe operating functionality in their equipment.

This increased interest is due, in part, to the globalization of the packaging machine marketplace. Many major packaging OEMs are focused on building machines that can be sold into multiple markets and regions with minimal modifications.

To do so, these machines need to satisfy safety regulations—especially for European markets. In addition, machine builders and end users are also discovering that the use of pneumatics that integrates safety technology can also enhance the reliability of their systems and extend their operational life.