Packaging is a large industry made up of various sectors. Each sector uses specific devices and machinery that are essential in the packaging processes for many different businesses. Typically, factories and production units have a complete packaging line consisting of various types of packaging machines. However, the nature of these devices will differ depending on the industry the business operates in. In this article, we will explore the list of equipment for a complete packaging line, which includes the most commonly used machines in this field.
List of equipment in a complete packaging line
Packaging machines are used to package products. These machines include equipment that perform various packaging stages, from filling to capping, sealing, and placing the products in cartons. A wide range of packaging machines is available for different industries, and each business can choose a specific machine based on its needs.
For example, liquid filling machines can be mentioned, where businesses in the food and chemical industries need to choose the correct type of these machines based on their products. However, in general, it can be said that a complete packaging line includes the following machines, and we will provide details on each one below:
- Storage Tank
- Mixer
- Transfer Pump
- Liquid Filling Machine
- Traffic Table
- Capping machine
- Labeling machine
- Cartoning Machine
- Carton sealing machine
- Shrink wrapping machine
The first device in the list of equipment for a complete packaging line is the storage tank, which, as the name suggests, is used to store and maintain raw materials such as water, oil, mixed substances, and so on. This tank is placed at the initial stages of the production and packaging line, and depending on the number of raw materials used in production, several separate tanks may be required.
Mixer
An industrial mixer is a device used for blending and mixing food and chemical materials that require high mixing precision. The mixer used in a complete packaging line comes in two types: standard and homogenizer. The homogenizer type is used for mixing substances that do not naturally combine (such as oil and water). Therefore, raw materials are transferred from the storage tank to the mixer to combine and produce the final product (whether food, chemical, cosmetic, etc.). It is worth mentioning that if you need to purchase a homogenizer mixer for your packaging line, you can acquire this device from the Radon online store.
Transfer Pump
The transfer pump is also one of the devices in the list of complete packaging line equipment, responsible for transferring materials from the mixer to the filling machine or other devices. The way this pump works is that it applies force to the fluid via the motor, increasing its energy so the fluid can be moved and transferred to the next machine. The transfer pump is also one of the equipment items you can purchase from Radan store.
Liquid Filling Machine
The liquid filling machine is one of the most important devices in a complete packaging line, responsible for filling products into containers. This machine has various mechanisms (such as piston cylinder, pump, etc.) that transfer the materials into containers using different methods. Therefore, after the mixing process, the product is transferred to the filling machine’s reservoir by a transfer pump. For more information, you can refer to the article “What is a Liquid Filling Machine?”.
Traffic Table
The traffic table, also known as the traffic tray, is a device in the complete packaging line that is placed before or after the liquid filling machine. Its responsibility is to organize and direct containers on the line or collect them from the line. This table prevents traffic jams on the line and prevents bottles and containers from falling to the ground. The purpose of using this device in the packaging line is to help position the products in an orderly manner for entry or exit from the machine.
Capping machine
After the product is transferred into bottles or containers by the liquid filling machine in the packaging line, these bottles or containers move toward the capping machine to have their caps placed. The capping machine may be equipped with a sealing mechanism that performs the sealing (closing) of the containers.
Labeling machine
The labeler is another essential device in the complete packaging line, and as the name suggests, it is responsible for applying labels containing product details. This device comes in various types, and depending on the type of container and label, it performs the labeling task.
Cartoning Machine
After the products are transferred into the containers, their lids are placed, and labels are applied, they reach the cartoning machine. In this stage, the prepared products must be placed into cartons by the cartoning machine to make transportation easier and prevent damage to them.
Carton sealing machine
In automatic packaging lines, which offer higher precision and efficiency, a carton sealing machine is typically used in the final stages. This machine comes after the cartoning machine and, as the name suggests, applies adhesive to the top and bottom of the cartons to prevent them from falling apart and to protect the products from damage.
Shrink wrapping machine
After the products are fully packaged, the shrink wrap machine comes into play in the final stage. It uses heat to shrink a thin, transparent plastic film around the packaged goods. This not only helps to bundle several products together but also prevents water and dust from entering. To perform this task, the conveyor belt transfers the products to the shrink wrap machine, where the shrink film is wrapped around them. The products then pass through a chamber called a furnace, where heat causes the plastic layer to shrink tightly around the product.
Jet printer and coding machine
Some factories place special printers at the end of their complete packaging line, which use lasers or ink to print barcodes and other key information on the product.
Final Words
When it comes to purchasing packaging machines, there are many variables to consider, from researching machinery, models, and brands to selecting the right supplier for service, maintenance, and supply. Purchasing a complete packaging line is a major investment for your business. When buying a packaging line, you need to invest sufficient time and attention to this process. For this reason, in this article, we have reviewed the list of equipment for a complete packaging line and the necessary devices to assist you in this process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials are the body of packaging machines made of?
Packaging machines should be made of stainless steel to ensure that all processes are carried out in a completely hygienic manner and to prevent rusting or corrosion of the equipment. This is particularly important in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics industries.
Can a home-based business be started by purchasing a complete packaging line?
Yes, by purchasing packaging machines such as liquid filling machines, label applicators, and cap sealing machines, you can start your home-based business.