How Do I Choose a Packing Machine?

To select the perfect packaging machine, consider a few factors, from packaging machine type to the cost of the machine. So, let’s see some of the most important features here-

Packaging Machine Type

• Premade Pouch Packaging Machines: Unlike conventional pouch machines, premade packaging machines only fill and seal already-shaped pouches. These machines can quickly package snacks, powders, and liquids. So, if you have ready pouches and want to fill them, choose these premade machines.
• Vertical Form, Fill, and Seal Machines (VFFS): These machines make packages from rolls of film and other materials. Then, they shape the packages into pouches, bags, etc. After that, the VFFS machine fills these packages with granules or liquids. Finally, it seals the filled packages to ensure the safety of the products.
• Flow Wrapping Machines: Wrapping packaging machines enclose products in a protective material. They use plastic film, paper, or foil to wrap items securely packaged for transport or sale. These machines are commonly used in food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods to maintain product quality and extend shelf life.
• Cartoning Machines: Cartoning machines are designed to form, fill, and seal cartons or boxes. They take flat, pre-cut cardboard pieces, shape them into cartons, and then fill them with products before sealing them for shipping and distribution.
• Case Packing Machines: Case packing machines automate the process of packing products into cases or boxes. They typically take pre-filled containers, such as bottles or cans, and arrange them into boxes for shipping and distribution.
• Filling Machines: Filling packaging machines fill packets, containers, or bottles. Based on products, there are three common filling packaging machines: liquid, powder, and solid. So, choose one regarding your product type.
• Sealing Machines: After filling the products, you will need a sealing machine to make a tight seal to secure the product. This way, the products will save from leakage and other accidents. These machines can seal bags, bottles, cartons, and pouches. Vacuum sealers, heat sealing machines, tube sealing, and many sealing machines are available on the market.
• Labeling Machines: Labeling is an essential aspect of production as it provides extra product information. With thermal technology, labeling machines print details on packaging. This allows you to make different labels for different products for better identification.

Material Type Of Packaging

Since different types of packaging machines are available based on packaging material, you must select one that matches your needs. For example, some machines are designed to handle plastic materials, and others are for glass. So, ensure your chosen machine is compatible with the specific packaging material.

Machine Speed

Machine speed usually depends on your everyday production. If you have a large business, you can choose a fast-moving machine, like one that packages about 30- 400 products per minute.

On the other hand, if you have a small business, you can go with a packaging machine that can package fewer products, such as 50 every minute.

Potential For Product Changeover

It is best to select machines that offer easy adjustment and rapid changeover capabilities. This will allow you to switch between different products or packaging formats with minimal downtime.

You can also look for adjustable settings, interchangeable parts, and user-friendly interfaces. This will maximize efficiency and support a broader range of products.

Machine Sturdiness

By choosing a strong design machine, you can reduce the machine’s vibration while running. Also, with a robust machine, you don’t have to change or fix the parts very often. This machine can run for a long time without resting. So, before selecting a packaging machine, check if it can control your whole production system.

Packaging Machine Cost

Packaging machines can be expensive, so you should consider your budget when choosing one. If you own a big company, you can select a costly machine to ensure your packaging efficiency. However, choose the most reasonable machine for your small company so you don’t have to affect your business finances.

Usually, small machines cost $1,500-$10,500. On the other hand, big machines are expensive, like $23,000-$150,000, and can go higher.

FAQs

How many bags can the packaging machine make per minute?

The production speed of a packaging machine varies. For example, small machines can produce between 30 and 150 bags per minute. However, high-speed models can exceed this range, reaching 400 bags per minute or more.

How do automatic packaging machines work?

Automatic packaging machines pack products into containers without human help. They typically run by using mechanical, electrical, and software components. And they can handle tasks such as filling, sealing, labeling, and wrapping. This way, these machines ensure the right speed and consistency.

What is the difference between packaging equipment and packaging machines?

The main difference between packaging equipment and machines is their terms and meaning. Packaging equipment means tools, materials, and machinery. On the other hand, packaging machines are specific automated or semi-automated units.