What is Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine?
Vertical form fill seal machines are a critical component of modern, advanced technology packaging lines. These machines are used to automatically create bags from a roll of packaging film, fill them with a product, and then seal them shut. They are widely used in the food, snacks, fragile products, powders, rice, fish, meat, pharmaceutical, and other industries.
There are several types of vffs packaging machine available on the market. Each type has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one for your application can be a challenge. In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at the various types of vertical packing machines and their key features.
Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine Working Process
These systems find extensive application across multiple sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals, thanks to their rapid and efficient packaging capabilities. Below is a detailed breakdown of a vertical packing machine’s operation:
Product Loading
The initial step involves loading the product into the machine’s hopper, which can be automated or manual. The product then moves to a weighing or measuring unit, guaranteeing accurate product quantity in each package.
Bag Creation
Packaging material, typically a flat film rollstock, is fed from a reel and passed through the machine. A forming collar molds the film into a forming tube shape, with a vertical sealing bar sealing the tube’s longitudinal seam.
Product Filling
The product descends through the now-formed film tube, either by gravity or controlled feed, into the temporarily sealed bottom end of the tube to prevent spillage.
Sealing and Cutting
The machine then seals the tube’s bottom, simultaneously sealing the next bag’s top. A cutter then separates the newly formed bag.
Bag Output
The finished bag is expelled from the machine for subsequent steps like boxing, labeling, or palletizing.
Types of Vertical Packaging Machines
There are two main types of vertical form fill seal machines: intermittent and continuous. Intermittent machines create bags one at a time, while continuous machines create bags continuously. Let’s take a closer look at each type.
Intermittent Vertical Packaging Machine
Intermittent vertical form fill seal machines are the most common type of vertical packing machine. They operate by pulling a length of packaging film from a roll, sealing the bottom of the bag, and then filling the bag with the desired amount of product. Once the bag is filled, the machine seals the top of the bag and then cuts it off from the roll. The process then repeats for the next bag.
Intermittent machines are typically slower than continuous machines, but they are more flexible and can handle a wider range of products. They are also less expensive than continuous machines.
Continuous Vertical Form Fill Seal Machines
Continuous vertical form fill seal machines are designed for high-speed packaging applications. These machines create bags continuously by pulling a length of film from a roll, sealing the bottom of the bag, and then filling it with product. As the bag is filled, the machine seals the top of the bag and then cuts it off from the roll. The process then repeats for the next bag.
Continuous machines are faster than intermittent machines, but they are typically more expensive and less flexible. They are best suited for high-volume packaging applications.
Key Features of Vertical Form Fill Seal Machines
Vertical form fill seal machines come in a wide range of sizes and configurations. When choosing a machine, there are several key features to consider:
Bag Size and Type
The size and type of bags that a machine can produce is an important consideration. Some machines are designed for small bags, while others can create bags that are several feet long. The type of bags that a machine can produce is also important. Some machines can create pillow bags, gusseted bags, or stand-up pouches.
Filling Method
The filling method used by a machine is another important consideration. Some machines use multihead weighers, combination multihead weighing machines, auger fillers, while others use volumetric fillers or weigh scales. The type of product being weighed and packaged will often determine the best type of scale to use.
Speed
The speed of a machine is another important consideration. Intermittent machines are typically slower than continuous machines, but they are more flexible. Continuous machines are faster, but they are less flexible and typically more expensive.
Controls and Automation
The controls and automation of a machine are also important considerations. Some machines are fully automated, while others require manual intervention. The level of automation required will depend on the complexity of the packaging process and the level of operator skill available.
Conclusion
Vertical form fill seal machines are a critical component of modern packaging lines. They offer a fast and efficient way to create and fill bags with a wide range of products. When choosing a machine, it is important to consider the bag size and type, filling method, speed, and level of automation required. With the right machine, you can streamline your packaging process and increase efficiency in your operations.