Vacuum sealing is a popular way of preserving products in low-oxygen conditions. It requires a device we call the vacuum packaging machine. Available in various sizes and types, the machine closes filled packs to form airtight seals, preventing atmospheric spoilage.
What is Vacuum Packaging Machine?
A vacuum packaging machine is a type of equipment that removes air from packages before sealing them. Removing air lowers or eliminates oxygen, reducing bacteria growth and oxidation chances.
The machine has valuable uses in the food industry, with some applications spreading across many product types. It also packs non-food items, such as electronics.
The typical vacuum sealer has a suction system. This part evacuates atmospheric gasses from the package. The machine is also manual or automatic and available in tabletop or floor-standing options.
Function of a Vacuum Packaging Machine
The main aim of this packaging method is to remove oxygen and reduce it to a negligible level. This action preserves food or other items, preventing spoilage or other problems that air may cause.
Vacuum packing uses thin plastic film as the sealing material. The film may form pouches or wrap trays, plates, canisters, and other containers. Let’s now see how the device works below.
Resource: https://www.researchgate.net
Vacuum Packaging Machine Working Principle
These machines work by extracting air and sealing packaging materials using heat. Understanding the parts that make them and the air extraction and sealing process will help us grasp the steps.
Vacuum Packaging Machine Parts
- The Main Frame – it’s usually made of stainless steel for easy cleaning and sanitation. It forms the machine’s structure, enclosing other parts.
- Vacuum Chamber – a suction space in larger machines. It holds the package for air extraction and sealing.
- Suction System – uses a vacuum pump to remove the air from the package. The evacuation method varies based on the device type.
- Sealing Bar – for sealing the package after filling. It typically uses heat to bond or tighten the film.
- Controls – comprise buttons and switches and sometimes a touchscreen to set packaging parameters like speed.
Vacuum Packaging Process
- Product Filling – introducing the product into the preformed packaging. The pack can be a pouch or another format.
- Sealing Bar and Package Alignment – the pack and sealing bar align to allow evacuation and subsequent closing.
- Suction Step– the vacuum system removes most air. Some remove the air externally, while others do so inside the machine.
- Heat Sealing – a sealing bar applies controlled heat and pressure, closing the package.
- Package Cooling – the sealed pack cools and is ready for removal. The machine may also label, emboss, or print the package.
What are the Types of Vacuum Packaging Machine?
The machine is available in various forms based on these features: automation level, size difference, and sealing mechanism. Let’s explore them in more detail below, including their working principle and specifications.
Manual vs. Automatic Type
A manual type is a hand-operated device. It costs less, making it economical. However, it cannot meet commercial vacuum sealing needs. You’ll mainly find it in households and professional kitchens.
Automatic types are either semi or fully automatic. The semi-automatic type has manual and automatic steps. On the other hand, fully automated variants are rapid devices for bulk packaging.
Tabletop vs. Free Standing Type
A tabletop type is a small-sized piece you can place on a table or other flat surface. Most manual packers are this type. The machine is best for personal use or less demanding applications like restaurants.
A free-standing type is a large structure and is usually autonomous. It performs the filling and sealing steps without operator intervention. Large manufacturing companies use these for high-volume packing.
External vs. Chamber Sealing type
An external sealer closes the filled pack from the edges. Most manual and semi-automatic sealers are of this type. They are best for small businesses or household use.
Chamber vacuum types come with sealing spaces where you enclose the filled package. A bar closes the edges to form an airtight seal after removing air. These packers offer better and more consistent sealing.
Thermoforming Type
This type forms the packaging film inline. The packaging materials are usually polymer-based and heat-sealable. It also uses automated steps for the various functions. Being automatic makes it suit industrial applications.
Vacuum Packaging Machine Benefits
There are many benefits to using a vacuum pack sealer machine, regardless of whether it’s a manual or automated type. The benefits range from extending the shelf life to versatile and convenient packing.
Increased Shelf Life
Foods last 2 to 3 times more if you vacuum-seal them than when exposed to the air. They will even stay fresh for longer if frozen. However, the material must have a low permeation to prevent oxygen re-entry.
Improved Product Quality
The product retains its condition for long, maintaining quality and consistency. Because the pressure is pneumatic, the product doesn’t suffer damage or deform. As a result, it keeps its form and structure.
Versatile Packaging
It handles many packaging materials, including laminated and extruded plastic, such as PA/PA, PVC/ EVOH, and OPP/EVOH/PE. It also packs many products, from farm produce to cooked food and industrial goods.
Enhanced Convenience
It has a simple operation (heat sealing) that requires no skill to use or understand. The machine also has fewer parts than other packaging devices. These attributes make it more convenient to use.
Resource: https://www.packworld.com
Vacuum Packaging Machine Applications
The vacuum packing machine is helpful in many settings, from homes and commercial places to product manufacturing. Here’s a list of the most popular applications and what makes it a good choice.
- Sous vide (low-temperature) cooking where you intend to store prepared food.
- Packing ready-to-eat meals by wrapping trays and plates in thin, transparent film.
- Preserve meats, seafood, dairy products, agricultural produce, and dry foods.
- Sealing clothing and other fabric materials like bedding to prevent degradation.
- Packaging electronics, toys, and other industrial hardware in airtight packs.
- Placing pharmaceutical and beauty products in low-oxygen bags.
- For medical devices like surgical equipment where sterility is critical.
Some products are not suitable for low-pressure sealing. It makes them spoil too soon than when preserved with other methods. They include fresh mushrooms, ripe bananas, fresh onions, and soft cheese.
What is the Best Vacuum Packaging Machine for You?
It depends on your needs and budget. There are options for smaller businesses and choices for large-scale manufacturing. Consider these factors for a device that perfectly fits the applicaation.
Machine Type – tabletop sealers are best for light applications, given their lower speed and seal strength. For higher volumes, consider an automatic and chamber-based sealer.
Suction Power – you want a machine that achieves greater efficiency when extracting air. This factor is crucial when packaging large items.
Packaging Speed – sealing speeds vary across machine types. Choose a model that best fits your desired speed per hour or other duration.
Usability – ensure the machine is easy to use and maintain. That means analyzing the mechanism it uses and the parts that make it.
Conclusion
The vacuum packaging machine is a heat-sealing device that can preserve food and non-food items. It slows atmospheric spoilage, allowing goods to last longer on the shelves. Whether buying one for personal or commercial use, ensure you understand what to look for.
