The range of packaging machines available is extensive and not always clear. Terms such as flowpack, traysealing, L-sealers, box erectors, gassing, barrier, etc… If you are not at home in the world of
machines, choosing the right packaging machine can be quite a task. Start at the beginning and ask yourself the following 5 questions:
1. What is the function of packaging?
Packaging can have 4 functions:
- Protect and preserve
- Selling and informing
- Distribute and transport
- Facilitating use and reuse
2. What production rate do you want to achieve and what are the specifications of
your product?
How many products/hour can you currently pack? What quantities do you want to evolve to in the future? Are there peaks and troughs in production? How will you handle that? The answers to this determine which automation is needed. Each type of packaging machine exists in a manual, semi-automatic or fully automatic
version. The speed is largely determined by the degree of automation. Another aspect that partly determines the production speed is the product specifications. By this we mean the dimensions, weight, shape, etc… of your products. Every machine has its limitations!
3. Which packaging materials do you want to use?
The world of packaging materials (e.g. film, trays, cardboard) is vast. The possibilities are endless but most machines can only work with a few types of onsumables. Climate is a hot topic. Plastic is under pressure. But can your machine handle biomaterials? You should also make this consideration in advance
if you don’t want any surprises.
4. What is my budget?
Packaging machines come in all kinds of versions, often expandable with various options. Determine your budget in advance and how much time you want to earn back your investment. Important: what cost reduction will the
installation of a new packaging machine entail (e.g. working hours).
5. After-sales service
Does your supplier have its own technical service department? After-sales service is often overlooked during the purchasing process, but that is unjustified. However, to ensure the smooth operation and long life of your
machine, you need to be able to rely on a good technical service. By buying a machine, you enter into a long-term relationship with your supplier. So make a conscious choice.
Once you know the answer to these 5 questions, you are ready to explore the market. This is your checklist that you should refer to every time you talk to a machine supplier. There is no need to know all these technical terms. That is the job of your machine supplier. He should inspire and advise you. Definitely be open to suggestions because often they have ideas you would never have come up with yourself. At the end of the day, your choice of
packaging machine should be a solution to your current packaging problem. A good supplier will help you do this!
