ProductWatch: Signode’s Sig-Corr Squaring and Strapping

Signode has expanded its Indian portfolio with the introduction of an automated squaring and strapping machine designed for high-volume corrugated box production. 

Officially launched in the domestic market in 2025, Signode’s Sig-Corr Squaring and Strapping is engineered to merge with existing corrugation lines, targeting manufacturers aiming for full process automation. By eliminating the manual handling typically required at the final stages of the packaging flow, the machine addresses critical bottlenecks in throughput and labour efficiency.

The technical core of the machine involves a precision squaring mechanism that stabilises box stacks before they are secured. As bundles — typically consisting of 20 to 25 corrugated boxes — enter the unit, the system centres and squares them from the sides to ensure uniform vertical alignment. This process is vital for maintaining the structural integrity of the stack, preventing the fishtailing or shifting of sheets that can occur during high-speed transit. Once the stack is squared, the unit automatically applies straps and moves the bundle forward for dispersion or palletisation.

A primary advantage of this automated solution is the substantial reduction in shop-floor manpower. In conventional semi-automatic or manual setups, operators are required to physically straighten and align stacks before they can be strapped. The Signode system replaces this manual touchpoint, allowing for a continuous, hands-free operation that minimises human error. 

The machine is capable of processing between 12 and 15 bundles per minute under standard conditions, with a high-speed capacity reaching up to 25 to 30 bundles per minute, depending on the specific line requirements.

The thickness of the individual corrugated boxes does not impact the squaring or strapping cycle. Furthermore, the machine maintains consistent performance regardless of the stack height or the number of boxes placed within a single bundle. 

Although the technology is a relatively new addition to the Indian sector, with early installations currently limited to select converters, the initial response suggests a growing market demand for end-of-line systems that prioritise operational speed and mechanical precision.