Heat Sealing Machines

Heat Sealing Machines
What are Heat Sealing Machines?

Heat sealing machines are valuable devices that can seal a host of flexible bags and pouches in order to protect and contain a host of products.  Heat sealing machines are configured in a variety of architectures from small timer-controlled poly bag sealers to advanced automated microprocessor controlled inline heat sealing machines.  Most heat sealing machines work in a general way; it is the process of joining two sheets of plastic together using heat and pressure.

The type of plastic usually used is a thermoplastic film; two of these pieces of film are joined together through the heat sealing machine which uses a combination of heat and often pressure to insure a secure seal. Although sometimes a thermal-activated adhesive creates the bond, as opposed to melding to thermal plastic sheets. Most heat-sealing machines start with a cool platen that is rapidly heated to a temperature that melts the plastics together and creates a seal.  Machines that use a constant temperature along with dies and rotating wheels are often called constant heat sealing machines.  The difference is the heat source and the consistency at which it is provided.

How to Choose A Heat Sealing Machine

Choosing a heat sealing machine should be front-loaded with knowledge. It's been our experience that some companies choose the incorrect heat sealing machine for the packaging project. For instance, low heat output sealers cannot be used on heavy foil gusseted pouches such as a stand-up coffee bag. In order to create the needed temperature range at the platen, double heating elements are required for such robust film. You can purchase machineries direct from the manufacturer or from authorized distributors and dealers, and there are many different styles of sealers that seal different types of materials together.

One of the first things you will need to know or decide is what type of materials you will be sealing. You need to find a sealer that will seal a variety of different types of materials to meet all your sealing needs.  Beside thermoplastic materials there are a variety of other materials that can be sealed together through a heat source. Ribbon, polyethylene, foil, nylon, plastics and PED materials are some materials that can be sealed through heat technology.

Upon deciding on the types of materials you will be sealing you can then narrow your search for the right sealer to meet your business's needs.  Many older heat sealing machines will require a two handed operation where the operator has a hand on the sealing machine to apply pressure and a hand on the packaging materials being sealed.  These have proven sufficient however having a sealing machine that allows you to just handle your packaging is more efficient, seals more firmly and lowers operator injury.

These types of machines will apply an adequate amount of pressure for you reducing wasted materials and creating higher volumes of productivity.  A sealing machine that allows you to use both hands to control your package will also improve the look of your packaging by providing you with straighter seals that are neat and don’t overlap.

Finally, you will want to search for a heat sealing machine that is durable and reliable. Of course, it's always important to consider throughput. If, for instance, you are only sealing a few hundred pouches a day, that would require a different machine than if you're sealing thousands of pouches a day. Most manufacturers can provide guidance in selecting a heat sealing machine and can explain the benefits of a low-capacity or high-capacity machine. Heat sealing machines can be a great investment that will enhance the operations of your business. These machines can help assure that your quality product makes it safely to your end-user. Remember, your package is ultimately your miniature store front and therefore it is important not to compromize on packaging and packaging equipment. And, of course it goes without saying that the company you purchase the equipment from should stand behind the machinery that they sell with a sensible warranty and technical support and also have a robust stock of parts. They further should have trained, competent, service technicians who can answer your questions regarding your heat sealing machines and also have an in-house service center that is equipped to not only service the machine, but have the technological prowess and facilities to evaluate your packaging in-house. Heat sealing machines are a vital part of our manufacturing to customer loop and should be regarded with the same reverence as the equipment that forms and builds your products.

Heat Sealing Machines