How a Pouch Packaging Machine Works
A pouch packaging machine is designed to automatically feed and pick up premade bags, code them, open them, fill them, and seal them shut. It can be used to package solid or liquid products.
Some models can also print desired dates and codes on the bags. This can improve product safety and reduce the risk of food contamination.
Filling
Pouch packaging machines can fill products into premade pouches with or without a zipper. They can also be configured with different spout types and other accessories like liquid fillers, augers, or vent valves. These devices can be used for a variety of products including powders, liquids, soups, and more.
After the spout is inserted, a registration photo-eye detects a mark on the film and controls pull-down belts that contact the film at the forming tube. This ensures that the film is positioned properly and that each bag will be filled with the correct amount of product.
Next, the bags are pushed through two deflator components that squeeze out excess air. Afterwards, the bags are sealed using heat and pressure to form a strong bond between the sealant layers. A cooling bar then passes over the seal to strengthen and flatten it.
The finished bags are discharged into a container or onto conveyor belts where they can be transported to downline equipment like check weighers, X-ray machines, or carton packing equipment. If desired, the machines can be equipped with a printing or embossing station for putting a date code on the bag or a logo or other graphics.
Deflation
The deflation process involves removing the air from the bag. This is necessary to preserve the freshness of the product and prevent it pouch packaging machine from being exposed to the air. Deflation also reduces the amount of waste that is produced. Deflation is a crucial step in the pouch packaging machine’s workflow. The spout of the pouch is deflated before it is sealed shut. The deflator component removes the air from the spout, while a hot seal bar seals it shut. The process is fast and efficient. The machine can run at speeds of up to 120 finished bags per minute.
Pouch packaging machines are a great solution for businesses that produce a lot of small items. They can package a wide variety of products, from powders and granules to liquids and food. In addition, these machines are easy to clean and help limit human exposure to toxic chemicals.
Another benefit of pouch packaging is that it helps vendors reduce shrink on the retail side of their business. This is because it’s difficult to return a partially-used product that has been packaged in a pouch. It also saves vendors money on waste disposal costs.
Sealing
Typically, a hot seal bar applies heat and pressure to the edges of the premade pouch, bonding them together. This process ensures a strong, secure seam that will keep the product fresh and safe. The sealed pouch is then passed to a cooling station that strengthens and flattens the seal, if needed.
For some products, a second liquid seal may be added in this station to prevent leakage. This is especially important for products with high moisture content. A gas flush is also possible for modified atmosphere packaging (MAP). A blast For pouch packaging machine manufacturers of a gas, like nitrogen, displaces oxygen within the bag to extend shelf life.
The rotary working pouch fill and seal machine can be configured with either an inline or a rotary layout. The rotary layout conserves plant floor space and is more ergonomic than inline models. This type of machine can accommodate a variety of different bag shapes and sizes. It can even incorporate a Kwik-Lok, twist tie, or tin tie to finish the package. The machine can also be equipped with a second filling station for liquid-based products.
Cutting
A pouch packaging machine is a device that can perform several different functions in a single automated process. It can shape and fill bags, print date codes and seal them. It can also incorporate a Kwik-Lok, twist tie, or tin tie to complete the packaging process. This system can also be integrated with a hopper, mixer, or conveyor to automate the bag-filling process.
The finished product is then conveyed to downline equipment, such as a check weigher or x-ray machine. It’s also cooled to prevent premature deflation or damage to the package. Finally, it’s transferred to a conveyor belt that transports the packages to storage and distribution.
It’s important to clean a VFFS pouch machine regularly, especially after each shift. This will help prevent damage and extend the life of the machine. A cleaning schedule should be established by the machine owner based on the type of products and environmental conditions. The cleaning schedule should be evaluated periodically and adjusted accordingly. Also, it’s important to clean the conveyor belt and hopper after each use.
Cleaning
To ensure that the sauce body and liquid blanking system of a pouch packaging machine remains free of residue, it is important to clean it daily. First, rinse the system with purified water until the wash water discharged is no longer turbid. This cleaning procedure is repeated until all powder residues are completely removed. Then, wash the hopper and feeding chute. After this, the remaining powder can be disposed of in a general waste area. The machine should be cleaned and inspected on a regular basis to ensure that the cleaning process is effective.
The frequency of these preventive maintenance tasks will depend on the type of product you’re packaging, and environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, dust levels, etc). Before starting any cleaning or maintenance activity, it is important to turn off and disconnect power.
Reduce your packaging costs with an attractive, durable pouch packaging solution. These versatile packages are a convenient way to sell products, and they allow you to offer smaller quantities of popular items that can be re-ordered online for easy home delivery. Plus, their flexible, lightweight design minimizes shipping costs and environmental impact.
