Heat seal machine
Today, the heat seal packaging machine has revolutionized the way products are packaged and sealed. Whether you have to package food items, electronics or pharmaceutical drugs, a heat seal machine provides a reliable and efficient method to create airtight seals. It is used to seal food for more freshness, to create tamper-proof packaging for pharmaceuticals, or to ensure the integrity of electronic components. This makes it a commonly used method to deliver secure and professional packaging solutions.
How does a heat seal machine work?
Heat seal machines utilize heat and pressure to create a secure and reliable seal on packaging materials. The exact working mechanism varies from machine to machines; however, the fundamental principles remain consistent. All heat seal machines are equipped with a heating element, typically made of a heating wire or a heating plate. Using the control settings, temperature can be controlled and adjusted to the appropriate level for the specific packaging material being used. The combination of heat and pressure will ensure a strong bond between the materials of the primary and secondary packaging. After the pressure has been released, the sealed area begins to cool and solidify. Cooling assures that the seal retains its strength and integrity.
Different types of heat seal machines
Heat seal machines come in various types, each designed to cater to specific packaging needs and industry requirements. Understanding the different types of machines can help to make informed decisions when choosing one of the machines that we, in collaboration with Starview, offer.
Manual shuttle
Manual shuttle heat seal machines are a popular choice for low to medium volume packaging operations. These machines feature a stationary platen and a movable platen (shuttle). The packaging material needs to be placed between the platens, and the operator manually moves the platen to apply heat and pressure for sealing. This makes it straightforward to use, and cost-effective, but it also offers versatility in sealing various materials such as films, foils, and laminates. Different types of machines that Ecobliss offers are:
- SB/PH1-2436
- SB/PH1-1824
- SB/PH1-1418
- SB/PH1-1012
Semi-automatic rotary
Semi-automatic rotary heat sealers combine the advantage of manual operations with some automation. These heat seal machines feature a rotating table or turntable that holds the packaging material in place during the sealing process. The operator manually loads the materials onto the turntable and initiates the sealing cycle. Afterward, the machine automatically rotates the turntable, moving the packages under the heating elements for sealing. The semi-automatic rotary has between four and six workstations, which makes it suitable for medium-volume production of fold-over cards and wallet design packaging. Commonly used machines are:
- ERB/PH6-1824
- ERB/PH6-1418
- ERB/PH4-1824
- ERB/PH4-1418
Automatic rotary
Automatic rotary heat seal machines are highly efficient machines designed for high-volume production lines. These machines offer fully automated operation, as they require minimal operator interventions. They feature a continuous rotary motion that transports the packages through the sealing process. After the packaging material is fed into the machine, it will automatically perform functions such as bag opening, product loading, sealing, cutting and unloading. The advanced control system will ensure precise temperature, pressure and sealing time adjustments. Ecobliss offers the following automatic rotary heat seal machines:
- FAB/PH8-1824
- FAB/PH8-1418
- FAB/PH6-1824
- FAB/PH6-1418
Automatic inline
Another automatic heat seal packaging machine is the automatic inline heat sealer. It is an inline version of the medical sealing machine, which is ideally used for processing fold-over cards, wallet packaging, and medical applications using foils, medical paper, Tyvek and other heat sealable lid stock. The packaging material is fed into the machine via the conveyor, and the heat-sealing process is carried out automatically as the packages move along the production line. Examples of automatic inline heat seal packaging machines are:
- CBS/PH30A-1428
- CBS/PH30-1428
Advantages and disadvantages of a heat seal machine
Heat seal packaging machines offer numerous advantages, but it is also essential to consider the potential drawbacks. We have listed some advantages as well as disadvantages regarding this type of packaging operation.
Advantages of heat seal
First of all, heat seal machines create strong, airtight seals that ensure product integrity, reduce the risk of contamination and prevent leaks or tampering: all of crucial importance for especially the pharmaceutical industry. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for additional materials such as adhesives, staples or tapes, reducing the material costs. The machine is designed for used-friendly operations, requiring minimal training. Heat seal machines help businesses meet regulatory and safety standards.
Disadvantages of heat seal
While heat seal machines are versatile, certain materials may not be suitable for heat sealing. Heat-sensitive or delicate materials may not be suitable for heat sealing. Additionally, they require energy to generate heat, and they may contribute to energy consumption in the production facility. A possible alternative would be to use a cold seal machine. One of the advantages of cold seal blister packaging is that it requires 80% less energy to seal the product since only pressure is needed, and it allows great design possibilities to enhance the product’s usability. Cold sealing is therefore more simple, versatile, efficient and sustainable than heat sealing.
Factors to consider when choosing a heat seal packaging machine
When choosing a heat seal machine, first consider factors such as production volume, desired level of automation, packaging materials compatibility, and specific application requirements. Understanding the distinctions between manual, semi-automatic and automatic heat seal machines will assist in selecting the most suitable solution for your packaging machine. Ecobliss, as a licensed supplier of packaging machines, will provide further required information in order to make the right decision. Feel free to get in touch and discuss your specific requirements. Next to heat seal packaging machines, we also offer cold seal packaging machines. Read more about the sustainable and efficient packaging technology of cold seal packaging.
