Vertical form fill seal machines, often abbreviated as VFFS machines, is a type of packaging machinery used to package products in various ways. They come in many different features and sizes, but all share one common goal: to package products efficiently and effectively.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to choosing a suitable vffs packaging machine efficiently.By following the steps outlined above, you can be sure that you choose the proper vffs machine manufacturer and the best equipment for your needs.

History

Vertical form fill seal machines was first patented in 1936 when Walter Zwoyer worked at the Henry Heide Candy Company. After this patent was granted, “Walter” and “Heide” formed the Transparent Wrap Machine Co. to create and distribute VFFS packaging machines.

What is vertical form fill seal machine

A Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine referred to as a VFFS machine, is a typical bagging machine used to package goods into bags as part of a packaging production line. 

This type of machine starts by helping to form the bag from roll stock. The bag is then filled with the required product and sealed. This machine is ideal for packaging dry, solid products such as grains, nuts, hardware and snacks but can also be used to package wet items like sauces or liquids that have been pre-packaged into pouches.

Two types of vertical form fill seal machines.

Vffs machine can be divided into Intermittent and continuous motion vffs packaging machine.

Intermittent machines Each cycle stops and starts, while the vertical and horizontal seals are made when the film is not moving. If speed is not paramount to you, then an intermittent machine will be a good choice.

On the other hand, continuous motion machines never stop. The reel continuously moves while both the vertical and horizontal seals are being made – which offers two advantages: they are faster and can produce different pack types.

Continuous motion machines can reach 110 packs per minute for high speed applications, whereas an intermittent machine can only produce around 70.

Furthermore, it offers greater control of the film due to its continuous motion – thus allowing for more variation in the kind of packaging it can produce.

Vertical form fill seal machine working process?

The vffs packaging machine working process typically consists of four main parts: Film Unwinder, Bag Former, Filling, and Sealing System.

Starting at the Film Unwinder, the film roll is unwound and fed into the forming tube. Here it is formed into a pouch or bag that can be used to package the product. The film is then carried from the bag former to the filling and sealing system, where it is filled with product, sealed, and cut.

In the Filling part of the vffs packaging machine, various methods can be used to get your products into bags. Volumetric fillers, multi-head weighers, and auger fillers are the most common types. The specific filling machine used will depend on the type of product being packaged.

In the Sealing part, after the pouch is filled with the product, it needs to be sealed to prevent leakage and keep the product fresh.

Popular vertical form fill seal machines in the market.

Packwaytechno offer various high quality and reliable technology vffs models to almost every industry today.They can meet various industries packaging requirements.

Multi head weigher vffs packing machine:

It can be used for the automatic packaging of dry and free-flowing powder, granular, slice, and block products in bags with various shapes like pillow type bags, stick pack packaging, gusseted or; even 3-side or 4-side seal bags.

The multi head weigher VFFS packing machine is a fast and accurate solution for handling multiple products. It is suitable for high-speed and accurate packaging of different materials, from dry fruit to pet food.

Linear weigher vffs packing machine:

It is perfect for consistent packaging sizes, such as chips, snacks, candy, and nut products. It is the economical packaging solutions that can quickly package products with meager cost and minimal maintenance. It is designed to save time, money, and resources while providing excellent performance.

Volumetric cup vffs packing machine:

This vertical bagging machine is designed to automatically pack granular products like coffee powder, rice, and bean. As its name suggests, it uses a specific cup to measure the products and thus needs to replace the cups when switching to different kinds of weights products, and it is a compact and practical solution.

Auger filler vffs packing machine:

The auger filler VFFS packing machine is designed to automatically pack powder products like flour, coffee powder, spice powder, etc. It is equipped with a servo motor auger filling system to ensure precise dosing accuracy, and it also brings significant benefits to increase packaging speed and reduce the workforce.

These are the popular vertical form fill and seal packaging systems available in the market. Each offers unique advantages and features that can make your packaging process more efficient and cost-effective.

Liquid filler vffs packing machine:

It combines a liquid hopper, piston filler, and printer to create a total packaging solution. This machine can be used to package a variety of liquids, from thick sauces and syrups to thin water and other beverages. It is an efficient way to fill and pack liquids into bags. The VFFS liquid packing machine packs products faster than manual packing while ensuring accurate filling and sealing.

Main features of vertical form fill seal machine.

Vertical form fill and seal machines offer a range of features to help businesses maximize their packaging efficiency.

Easy changeover

Vertical bagging machines allow for quick, tool-free changeovers, enabling users to quickly switch between different bag sizes in minutes rather than hours.

Durability

Their durable construction makes vertical bagging machines perfect for withstanding harsh cleaning protocols and is available in stainless steel or washdown options.

Versatility

The machines are also versatile, able to create specialty bag styles such as quad seal ,pillow bags, 3 side seal pouch, and offer options like zippers, tear notches, hole punch, modified atmosphere packaging, and one-way valve applicators.

Ease of use

These machines are also user-friendly, boasting intuitive touch screen and easy-to-follow navigation. This allows operators to quickly become familiar with the control panel to get up and running in no time.

Flexibility integration

Vffs packaging machine can be easily integrated with industry-leading filling and packaging equipment, such as conveyors, X-ray and check weighers, cartooning and case-packing solutions, and more, to further streamline their packaging process to meet the top production demands.

Vertical form fill seal machine options.

Nitrogen flushing:

It is a process where nitrogen gas is introduced into the bag during the filling stage before it is sealed shut. This helps to keep the product inside fresh and preserves its shelf life.

Hope punching:

Hope punching is another optional feature available on vertical form fill and seal machines. It works by perforating the bag after it has been filled and sealed, allowing air to flow through the packaging and aiding in product shelf life.

Gusseted bags:

Gusseted bags are commonly used with vertical form fill seal vffs. These bags are created with two side panels, which expand outward and create a three-dimensional shape when filled with product. This style of bag is ideal for products that require extra containment.

Chain bag:

Chain bags are also commonly produced on vertical form fill seal vffs. These bags have a continuous perforation along the length of the bag, allowing them to be easily separated into individual units without additional cutting tools. This makes chain bags ideal for products that require easy separation and portion control.

Easy-tear notch:

Easy-tear notches are another feature of vertical form fill seal vffs. These small perforations make it easy to open the bag without needing scissors or other cutting tools, making it ideal for consumers who want quick and easy access to products.

Electric elimination:

Electric elimination is used on vertical form fill seal vffs where an electric current passes through the bag sealing area to create a solid and secure seal. This process helps reduce the risk of product leakage while also increasing the strength of the seal and protecting against tampering.

Bag supporting:

Bag supporting is another feature of vertical form fill seal vffs that help ensure the bags remain in place and upright while filling with product. This helps reduce the risk of significant portions of products breaking through the bag and spilling out.

Bag styles produced on vertical form fill seal machine

Pillow bag:

Pillow bags are the simplest and most common type of bag produced on a vertical baggers. Pillow bags have two side seals, with either an overlapping or non-overlapping back seal. This is the most popular style for snacks, cereal, sugar, flour, and rice.

Gusseted bag:

Two side seals and two gussets characterize gusseted bags. Gussets fold along each side of the bag, giving it stability when standing. This style benefits product like coffee, tea, pet food, and fertilizers that require a strong bag to stand on shelves.

Quad seal bag:

Quad seal bags consist of top, bottom, and two side seals. This style is best for products with a high volume, such as granola, nuts, or crackers. The four-sided seal gives the bag extra strength and stability to maintain its shape when filled with a large volume of product.

Three side sealing bag:

This three side sealing bag style has two side seals and one top seal. It is often used for products that require a bag with a hang hole, such as fruit or vegetable bags. This style is also great for single-serve coffee pods, where the product needs to be visible to draw customers’ attention.

Four side sealing bag:

The four side sealing bag is similar to the three side seal style but with a different top or bottom seal. This style is often used for products that require extra strength and stability, such as detergent and laundry soap pouches. It can also be used for products with a substantial hang hole for display purposes.

Benefits

Improve efficiency:

Vffs machines boast an impressive high output of up to 110 units per minute, with many models offering the ability to adjust speeds based on current product needs. This high-speed performance helps companies increase production and reduce labor costs.

Reduce product waste:

Using a vffs equipment can help reduce the amount of product waste created. Vffs machines ensure accurate portions and consistent packing by eliminating manual packaging, which often results in incorrect portion sizes and inconsistent packages. 

Extend products’ shelf life:

By properly packaging food, beverage, and pharmaceutical products in an airtight environment, the vertical baggers can help extend the product’s shelf life. This helps companies reduce costs associated with the wasted product and increases customer satisfaction by providing a longer-lasting effect.

Improve brand awareness:

The uniform, professional packaging created by a vertical form fill seal can help to develop and improve brand recognition. By ensuring that every package looks the same, companies can create a consistent look that ties in with other promotional efforts, helping to build an overall presence for their product or service.

Reduce labor cost:

By automating the packaging process, companies can eliminate the need for manual labor and save money on wages, benefits, and other related expenses.

How to choose a suitable vertical form fill seal machine

Confirm your products

The first step when selecting a vertical form fill seal machine is to confirm the properties of your products, including shape, size, weight, and other components such as additives. This will enable you to determine which packaging solution will be most suitable for your products.

Bag style

The second step is to decide your bag style based on the size, shape, and weight of your products and the desired appearance of the package.

Flat-bottom bags are often used for dry food items or other products that need to stand upright, while gusseted bags allow larger amounts of product to be packed in one container.

Packaging speed

The third step is to consider the packaging speed that you need from your vertical packaging machine. This will depend on the size of your production line and how quickly you need to produce packages. The faster the machines can run, the more efficient your production process will be.

Materials and components

The fourth step is to consider the materials and components you will need for your packaging process. This includes the film or bag material type, filling device, and additional components such as airtight seals or labeling systems. It is crucial to choose materials that are suitable for your product, as well as

Consider equipment cost and budget.

Once you have identified the most suitable vertical packaging machines for your product and production process, the next step is to consider the cost of the equipment and determine your budget.

The total cost of ownership is essential when considering an investment in new machinery. It feels like the initial purchase price, ongoing maintenance costs, spare parts, energy consumption, etc.

Facility space

Finally, it would be great if you considered the physical space available in your facility. A vertical form fill seal machine typically requires a relatively large footprint, so it is crucial to ensure valuable plant floor space for installation and operation.

You may need to adjust or rearrange other machines within your production line to accommodate the new system.

Conclusion

The vertical form fill seal machine is a versatile and efficient packaging solution for many products.

By taking the time to consider your product, desired bag style, packaging speed, materials and components, equipment cost and budget, as well as facility space requirements, you can ensure that you select the most packaging machines for your production needs.

By doing so, you can achieve cost savings and improved efficiency in your packaging process.

For further questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Packwaytechno, which is a reputed packaging machiens brand. Packwaytechno’s dedicated teams always help you select the proper vertical form fill seal machine for your specific needs.