Why Are Businesses Switching to Automatic Packaging Machines? Uncover the Hidden Edge They Offer
Packaging is a crucial part of the production process. Since the 1900s, automation and mechanization have increasingly replaced manual packaging methods. Over time, automatic packaging machines have been continuously upgraded with advanced technologies for the highest level of precision, speed, efficiency, and consistency in the packaging processes.
The packaging industry, like many others, has undergone significant innovation. Businesses are now adopting automated packaging machines to remain competitive, as these machines streamline operations, reduce labor costs, and enhance productivity.
In essence, automatic packaging machines are transforming the industry. Continue reading to explore the benefits and different types of these machines.
How do Automatic Packaging Machines Work?
The machines are designed to make work faster and more seamless. Therefore, the entire machinery works as a series of coordinated processes.
First, the products to be packed are placed on a conveyor system, which serves as the feeding mechanism for the machines. This system is equipped with sensors and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to control and manage the flow. These components also ensure precise positioning and timing of the products throughout the packaging process.
The machines then fill, seal, label, and wrap the products according to the pre-programmed packaging requirements. For instance, heat sealers or adhesive applicators are meant to secure the packages. Similarly, the filling unit ensures that the correct quantity of products is dispensed into containers. The labelling units ensure the correct application of labels, while the wrapping modules ensure that the packages are shrink-wrapped properly.
The automatic packaging machines are also equipped with a PLC system that oversees the entire packaging process. In case of any issue, the system raises alarms in real-time. The PLC System is also responsible for data generation, which helps in making effective decisions.
Innovation plays a significant role in the modern-day automatic packing machine. For example, PID controllers control the temperature, and a servo motor controls the packing materials, ensuring precision and high-speed work without compromising on quality.
There is a quality control feature to ensure consistency and standardization. Automating the entire process reduces manual intervention and improves the speed and accuracy of the process. Errors in the packing process are dramatically reduced due to cutting-edge technology.
Another area of work involves programming that helps pack only the stated product quantities. Similarly, using sensitive weight sensors ensures that the packaging is consistent and has minimal wastage.
Categories of Automatic Packaging Machines
The common classifications of automated packing machines are as follows.
Primary or Secondary
These machines take care of the inner and outer packing of products. Primary packing refers to the inner packaging, or the first layer of packaging, the product. It is closest to the product. Secondary packing is the outer layer or the second layer of packing. It involves machines like shrink wrap machines, cartooning machines, etc.
Single-Function or Multi-Function
Single-function automated packing machines are designed to perform only one process in the packaging workflow. Filling or sealing machines are examples of single-function packaging machines.
As the name suggests, multi-function machines perform multiple tasks at a particular moment. Common examples are VFFS or HFFS machines. These machines can create pouches of appropriate size and format, such as sachets, pillows, stick packs, etc. The machines can fill the products in the pouches, seal them, and cut them to complete the first layer of packaging.
Automatic or Semi-Automatic
An automatic machine features a fully automated mechanism. In most cases, multi-function machines are fully automated, which is why they are costly. For small and medium-sized businesses or those operating on a limited budget, a semi-automatic packaging machine is the best choice. These are less expensive than the automatic version, as a few of the tasks need human intervention.
Benefits of Automatic Packaging Machines
Improved Quality
Products packed using automated packaging machines benefit from improved quality and standardized packaging, as these machines ensure accurate and consistent processing. Each package is sealed and filled according to precise specifications and measurements, guaranteeing uniformity and reliability in every unit.
Productivity
Using automated and semi-automated machines for packaging helps save time, making the process easy and seamless. On the other hand, manual packaging takes time and can be cumbersome. Labourers can quickly get tired from the monotony of the work. However, machines continue to work at a higher speed, driving efficiency.
Product care
With a manual packaging process, there are always chances of errors and breakage. However, Automatic packaging machines package the products securely. Take the case of a stretch wrapping machine. It will repeatedly wrap and package every product in a pre-defined and preset manner. Thus, the products are wrapped well and protected from contamination. Thus, the shelf life of the product remains intact.
Employee safety
Manual packaging can be tedious and unsafe for workers, as repeated wrapping and palletizing can lead to cuts and back injuries. Automated machines simplify and streamline the packaging process, significantly reducing safety risks
Cost-effective
The upfront cost of an automatic packaging machine is high, but it becomes cost-effective over time. This investment can often be partially recovered within a few months and fully within a year or two. Additionally, tax benefits, such as depreciation and write-offs, can further offset the initial expense.
Low material wastage & Sustainable
Automated packaging machines enhance sustainability by minimizing material waste, optimizing energy efficiency, and facilitating recycling. They ensure consistent quality, reduce carbon footprints, and support the use of eco-friendly materials, making the packaging process more efficient and environmentally friendly. In addition, the spilling cost of raw materials and wasteful finished product costs are reduced.
Conclusion
Automated packing machines may be expensive upfront, but they can save you from costly errors and package wastages. Thus, investing in one is an intelligent business decision.
If you want to buy or order packaging machinery in Toronto, look no further than Alter Pack Ltd. As your partner, we provide sales support, after-sales support and technical expertise. We bring a range of machines from the best brands in the world.