In this episode of Industrial Edge, Lacey Chandler sits down with Robert DeMaria, General Manager of OK International, at the 2024 Almond Board Conference. They dive deep into the world of packaging automation and how “bag-in-a-box” technology is revolutionizing efficiency for almond producers. 

Robert shares his insights on shifting from manual labor to automated lines, the technical evolution of packaging machinery, and why consistency is the ultimate goal for modern nut processors. 

Key Topics Discussed:

• The “Bag-in-a-Box” Workflow: A look at how case erectors, bag inserters, and sealers work together to create a seamless packaging line.
• Labor Reallocation: Why automation isn’t about replacing people, but moving them from backbreaking tasks to higher-value technical roles.
• Modernizing Industrial Tech: Implementing larger touch screens, servo motors, and remote Ethernet access for 21st-century troubleshooting.
• ROI & Consistency: The financial and operational benefits of eliminating manual weighing and inconsistent packaging.
• Almond Industry Trends: Surprising facts about almond yields per acre and the impact of seasonal swings.