Among the key highlights at Propak Africa 2025 was drive technology and automation specialist SEW-EURODRIVE’s MOVI-C modular automation system, which is designed to simplify automation processes across various industries. 

Industry leaders gathered at the packaging, printing, food processing, plastics and labelling trade exhibition held at the Johannesburg Expo Centre from March 11 to 14, where cutting-edge automation and digitalisation solutions took centre stage.

The MOVI-C system features four ranges of cabinet inverters, along with decentralised drives, servo motors and software solutions. 

“The system is designed to streamline installation and digitalisation in the industries represented at Propak, which significantly reduces development time when designing comprehensive automation solutions for customers,” says SEW-EURODRIVE electronics business development manager Willem Strydom.

SEW-EURODRIVE’s key differentiator in the packaging and food processing industries is the MOVIKIT, pre-developed packages for different applications, he adds.

“For robotics and positioning, there are about 1 000 MOVIKITs available globally. This really takes away a lot of the work for our customers – system integrators and original-equipment manufacturers.”

The MOVIGEAR has long been a staple in the bottling, food and beverage sectors.

The latest Gen C version has IE5-rated efficiency, outperforming traditional IE3 motors. Real-world applications have demonstrated up to 38% electricity savings, driving substantial improvements in system 

efficiency. Additionally, the modularity of MOVIGEAR – which incorporates servo technology – reduces critical spare part stockholding, further enhancing sustainability for customers.

Advanced Condition Monitoring 

SEW-EURODRIVE’s Propak display also showcased the MOVILINK Digital Data Interface technology. 

“A diagnostic module is installed on a servo motor, which is connected using a hybrid cable integrating power supply, encoder feedback and condition monitoring. The condition monitoring system provides real-time vibration, temperature, oil and brake wear analysis,” explains Strydom.

This data is accessible through an Internet-of-Things app, which can be used on smartphones, laptops or desktop computers. Additionally, the app enables proactive maintenance by sending alerts through WhatsApp, SMS or email to end-users, such as maintenance personnel, helping to prevent critical failures before they occur.

Expanded Service Capabilities 

To better serve customers across the 23 African countries SEW-EURODRIVE supplies, the company has expanded its stockholding in South Africa, ensuring shorter lead times and improved availability. 

“The modularity of our product range means many parts overlap, which allows equipment to be assembled to order. This speeds up the delivery of orders and reduces the critical stock holding for customers operating in remote areas,” highlights Strydom.

Further reinforcing its commitment to the continent, the company is advancing the second phase of its expansion, dedicated to after-sales service and repairs. The new service facility, set for completion in October this year, aims to enhance sustainability and support for the company’s African clients.

Visitors to the SEW-EURODRIVE Propak stand were able to engage with industry experts and explore how the company’s innovations are aimed at driving efficiency, sustainability and cost savings in industrial automation.