How does a sachet machine work? A Comprehensive Guide to Sachet Packaging

A sachet machine automates the process of packaging products like liquids, powders, or granules into small, sealed pouches called sachets. It utilizes a continuous roll of flexible film, which the machine forms into individual sachet containers. Precisely measured amounts of the product are then dispensed into each sachet. Finally, the machine seals each sachet securely, protecting the contents from external contaminants and helping to maintain product freshness and extend its shelf life. This automated process ensures efficient and consistent packaging for a wide range of consumer goods.

Key Points Explained:

• Continuous Film Feed:

  • The sachet machine starts with a large roll of flexible packaging film. This film is typically made of materials like plastic, aluminum foil, or laminates, chosen for their barrier properties, strength, and ability to be heat-sealed.
  • The film is fed continuously from the roll through a series of rollers and guides within the machine. These components ensure that the film is properly aligned and tensioned for the subsequent forming, filling, and sealing operations.

• Sachet Forming:

  • The continuous film is then formed into individual sachet pouches. There are two main methods for forming sachets:
    • Vertical Form-Fill-Seal (VFFS): The film is pulled vertically over a forming collar, which shapes it into a tube. The vertical seam of the tube is then sealed.
    • Horizontal Form-Fill-Seal (HFFS): The film is fed horizontally and folded or shaped into a sachet form. The bottom and side seals are created before filling.
  • The choice between VFFS and HFFS depends on factors such as the type of product being packaged, the desired sachet shape, and the production speed requirements.

• Product Dispensing:

  • Once the sachet is formed, a precise amount of the product to be packaged is dispensed into the open sachet. The dispensing mechanism varies depending on the product's physical properties:
    • Liquids: Metering pumps or volumetric fillers are used to dispense accurate volumes of liquid.
    • Powders and Granules: Auger fillers, volumetric cups, or weigh fillers are employed to measure and dispense powders and granules.
  • Accuracy and consistency in dispensing are crucial to ensure that each sachet contains the correct amount of product, meeting regulatory requirements and customer expectations.

• Sealing:

  • After the product is dispensed, the sachet is sealed to enclose the product and protect it from external elements.
  • Sealing is typically achieved using heat sealing, where heated dies or bars are pressed together to fuse the layers of the packaging film.
  • The sealing process creates a hermetic seal, preventing leakage, contamination, and degradation of the product.

• Cutting and Discharge:

  • Once the sachet is sealed, it is cut from the continuous film web.
  • Cutting is typically done using knives, blades, or laser cutting systems.
  • The individual sachets are then discharged from the machine, ready for further packaging or distribution.

• Quality Control and Monitoring:

  • Modern sachet machines incorporate quality control systems to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the packaging process.
  • Sensors and cameras may be used to inspect the sachets for proper sealing, fill levels, and print quality.
  • If any defects are detected, the machine can automatically reject the faulty sachets, preventing them from entering the supply chain.

• Materials Used:

  • Flexible Film: This is the primary material, typically a laminate of plastic, aluminum foil, and/or paper. The specific material is chosen based on the product's requirements for moisture barrier, oxygen barrier, light protection, and mechanical strength.
  • Sealing Mechanism Components: These include heated sealing bars or dies, which are often made of metal with temperature control systems.
  • Cutting Blades: High-quality steel blades or laser cutting systems are used for precise and clean cuts.
  • Machine Frame and Components: The machine frame is usually constructed from stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant materials to ensure durability and hygiene.

Summary Table:

Interested in sachet packaging solutions? Contact us to learn more!