"You can choose the level of automation you want, whether it be fully automatic or semi-automatic," said sales and marketing support manager Alain Grivel.

The gPAL, along with the gBREAK blank separator, is made to work inline with Bobst's SPO die-cutters.

According to the firm it negates any need for the manual handling of corrugated box blanks, allowing the SPO die-cutter to operate at full capacity.

It uses a retractable system of belts to avoid friction during delivery, minimising the possibility of marking on pre-printed blanks.

The footprint of the gPAL has been minimised to allow peripherals such as pile turners, automatic pallet transport systems and inserters to be added to the production line.

The modular system will be officially launched at the FEFCO technical seminar next week in Nice from 20-22 April. No prices have been released for the gPAL but according to Grivel: "Its an entry-level range so it will be very competitive."

Story by Darryl Danielli