Investing in new machines for packaging is one of the most significant capital expenditures a production facility will undertake. With technologies ranging from horizontal flow wrappers to vertical form fill seal (VFFS) systems, the “best” machine is entirely dependent on your product’s physical properties and your industry’s specific regulatory requirements.
At Record Packaging, we assist businesses in navigating the complex landscape of industrial machines for packaging to ensure they achieve the perfect balance of speed, protection, and presentation.
Primary vs. Secondary Machines for Packaging
Understanding where a machine sits in your production line is the first step toward efficiency.
- Primary Packaging Machines: These systems come into direct contact with the product. For example, a flow wrap machine creates the initial sealed pouch for a biscuit or a medical device.
- Secondary Packaging Machines: these systems handle already-packaged goods. Examples include the Record Spartan Cartoner, which places items into boxes, or case packers that prepare goods for transit.
Sector-Specific Solutions
Different industries demand different mechanical capabilities from their machines for packaging.
- The Food Sector: Requires machines capable of Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP). Systems like the Record Jaguar MD LS are the industry benchmark here, providing hermetic seals that extend shelf life for meat, fish, and dairy.
- The Medical and Pharma Sector: Here, the focus shifts to sterility and compliance. Machines for packaging medical supplies must offer high-integrity seals and easy-to-clean, stainless-steel constructions to meet stringent hygiene standards.
- The Hardware and DIY Sector: Durability is key. Machines like the Record Panda are favoured for their ability to wrap heavy, sharp, or irregular items such as plumbing fittings and tools without tearing the film.
Key Features to Look For
When evaluating machines for packaging, ensure the following technologies are included to future-proof your investment:
- Full Servo-Driven Control: Independent motors for infeed and sealing ensure precision and reduce mechanical wear.
- Intuitive HMI Touchscreens: Modern machines for packaging should be easy to operate, with pre-programmed “recipes” for different product sizes.
- Sustainability Compatibility: Ensure the machine can handle modern, eco-friendly materials like recyclable paper-based films.
“When clients look for machines for packaging, they often focus solely on the ‘packs per minute’ figure. However, the real value lies in versatility. In today’s market, the best machines for packaging are those that offer rapid changeovers and can handle multiple product types on a single line with minimal downtime.”
Robert Murphy, Sales Director at Record Packaging Systems
Optimise Your Production Today
Choosing the right machines for packaging is about more than just moving a product from A to B; it is about protecting your margins and your brand reputation.