MLP-LX750K(Y) Multi-Lane Stick Packing Machine

Stick Packing Machine: The Ultimate FAQ Guide

If you have any questions about the stick packing machine, you will find the answer right here.

From components, working principle, benefits, application, features to specifications – every information is in this guide.

What are Stick Packs?

This is a flexible pouch that is suitable for packaging food items.

Stick packaging finds its name from the shape of the stick pack that is long and narrow.

The sealing of stick packs happens at both ends, plus one down the back of the pack.

Stick pack

What is Stick Packaging Machine?

This is a machine that will produce and pack food items in stick packs.

Stick packing machine

What are the Components of the Stick Packing Machine?

There are several components inside a stick packing machine.

All these parts work together to produce quality stick packs.

Even though there are various categories of stick packs, they all perform the same function.

Thus, some components will be available in one machine and lack in another machine.

Here are the parts that you will find in stick packing machines:

Control Panel

This part allows the operator to set stick packing parameters and monitor the stick packing process.

It comes with a programmable logic controller [PLC] and a human-machine interface [HMI].

There are buttons and the display has graphical elements for ease of use.

Also, any faults or errors the machine may experience will show on the control panel.

Printers

These parts may be available in some machines and lack in others.

This is because it is an optional feature to have as some film stocks have prints in them.

It functions by printing details on the film strip that will form the pack around the products.

Details it may print include:

1. The company brand
2. Date of manufacture
3. Expiry date

Roll Stock

It is a circular portion of the stick packing machine that will hold the film that forms the packs.

The film will unwind during the stick packing process providing packing material to the products.

Sensors

These parts prevent accidents and losses from happening.

They will also ensure the stick packing machine performs efficiently and reliably.

The sensors will sound an alarm warning the operator of some flaws the machine may have.

In extreme cases, it may shut the stick packing machine to prevent any hazards.

It detects seals that have faults and rejects them from proceeding to the next stage.

Also, it has a no-pack, no-filling capability, which will prevent losses and spillages.

Blade Cutters

The formed tube will produce a long continuous tube that is hollow.

It is the function of the blade cutters to slice the tubes into strips.

The length of the strip depends on the parameters and the materials you are filling.

Hopper

All the products that you are to pack inside the stick packs will initially be in the hopper.

The size of the hopper varies from one machine to another.

It allows the stick packing process to happen continuously as long as the products are available in the machine.

Form Tube

The sealing material is always flat as it enters the stick packing machine.

It is the function of the form tube to form the cavity using the film stock.

The tube will hold the products before sealing happens.

Sealing System

Once the products are inside the stick packs, the machine will seal them to prevent leakages and contamination.

Sealing may happen via various techniques depending on the features of the stick packing machine.

Dancer’s Arms

These contain a series of rollers that will help maintain the tension of the film.

It also prevents the film from wandering sideways.

Motors

This part will convert electrical energy into mechanical energy that will drive the parts of the machine.

Conveyor Systems

They help with the transportation of materials from one part of the machine to another.

Electrical Unit

It contains all the electrical units that will assist in providing power to the stick packing machine.

These include cables, fuses, etc.

Supporting Platform

This is the frame that holds the entire stick packing machine together.

How does a Stick Packing Machine Work?

The operation principle of a stick packing machine is alike to a vertical form fill seal packing machine.

Stick packing machines may have several lanes that all perform the same function.

This allows the machine to have high production capabilities.

Here are the steps on how a stick packing works:

Film Transport and Unwinding

Before any operation begins, ensure the machine is in good working conditions.

First, the stick packing machine begins by relaying and unwinding the film that will hold the products.

The machine uses a single sheet of film material that rolls around a rolling stock.

A film reel will hold the film material as it unwinds via a cross-seal jaw that will keep it in motion.

The film reel is at the back of the machine while the cross seal jaw it at the from of the stick packing machine.

The film material can be of:

1. Aluminum and Polyethylene [PE]
2. Nylon and Polyethylene [PE]
3. Paper and Polyethylene [PE]
4. Oriented polypropylene [OPP] and Polyethylene [PE]

Printing Process

This is an optional part of the machine.

In case the machine has a date stamping system, the operator feeds the film around the registration roller.

It will assist in positioning the date stamp on the packs.

Sensors will identify the eye marks and control the position of the seal in tandem with the printing process.

The available types of printers may include:

1. Ink-jet printers
2. Simple ribbon printers
3. Thermal transfer printers

Film Tension

This stage involves feeding the film over sets of nip rollers.

The function of nip rollers is to produce even pressure on the film, thus keeping it in constant tension.

It will also assist in maintaining the dancer’s arm in the correct operating position.

The dancer’s arm is a weighted pivot arm that is at the rear part of the stick packing machine.

Several rollers are part of the dancer’s arm.

The arm will shift up and down as the film unrolls while keeping the tension.

This prevents the film from moving from side to side.

Film Cutting Process

The film will head towards the cutting section after leaving the nip rollers.

In this process, the machine will cut the film into strips.

The number of strips the machine can cut depends on the number of lanes available.

These strip packs are what will contain the products in individual packs.

Besides, there is no motorization on the cutting blades.

The film moves through the blades while still in tension from the earlier stage.

These blades are in contact with special rollers that assist in the cutting process.

Stick Pack Formation

After the cutting process, the strip film will pass through tubes.

Only one strip can pass a single lane.

The cut film passes on the collar of this part to form a hollow tube.

This tube will fold the strip film such that the ends will overlap each other.

Also, the operator can set the forming tubes to produce lap seals or fin seals.

Lap seals will overlap the two outer edges hence creating a flat seal.

Fin seals will join the inner parts of the outer edges to create a seal that resembles a fin.

The more pleasing seal is the lap seal as it also takes up less film material than fin seals.

Filling and Sealing of Stick Packs

In this stage, several hot vertical seal bars move towards the film tube.

This heat will form a vertical seal once it comes into contact with the film material.

After this, a single horizontal sealing jaw will come into contact.

This forms a top seal on one stick pack while forming a bottom seal on the next stick pack.

Thereafter, the sealing jaws close, and the bottom stick pack will drop at the middle of the forming tubes.

Then the products will enter the stick pack tube.

Ensure the right amount enters the packs, and this is with the help of:

1. Auger fillers
2. Volumetric fillers
3. Liquid pump fillers

Discharge of Stick Packs

After the products fill the stick packs, blades move towards and cut the packs.

Also, a horizontal seal may form a notch under the horizontal seal jaw.

The cut stick packs will drop inside outfeed chutes.

These chutes will open and close at specific time intervals as they have flaps.

Once the packs leave the outfeed chutes, they move onto the outfeed conveyor system or the receptacles.

Single outfeed chutes can help with controlling and orienting the stick packs.

The stick packs then move towards other machines such as check weighers, x-ray, case, or carton packing machines.

What are the Applications of Stick Packing Machine?

Multiple industries use a stick packing machine in their production line.

These industries include:

Pharmaceutical Industries

These industries will pack medicinal products that patients will use.

They pack single doses in the right quantity that makes them easy to utilize.

Cosmetic Industries

They pack beauty products that are appealing to the consumers.

These may include lotions, body oils, dyes, etc.

Food Industries

Several food industries use this machine to produce an appealing, affordable, and easy to use product.

Examples include sugar, glucose, sweets, coffee, etc.

Chemical Industries

They can pack acids, reactive compounds, etc.

What are the Benefits of using a Stick Packaging Machine?

There are several advantages to using a stick packing machine, and they include:

Time-saving

A stick packing machine can produce several stick packs within a short time.

This allows you to meet your production needs as they come.

Ease of Use

Automatic versions of stick packing machines are easy to use.

This means one can operate the machine without much training.

Support Equipment

It is possible to use other support equipment with a stick packing machine.

Examples include carton and case packaging.

Cost-effective

This machine will allow you to meet your production needs while lowering your operational costs.

It will cut down the salary you need to pay your operators should you have been doing manual stick packing.

Accuracy

A stick packing machine is very accurate, reliable, time-saving, and can achieve high production capacities.

Sensors

Automatic sensors will prevent damages, hazards, and loss during the stick packing process.

Production Capacity

Stick packing machines come in varying production speeds.

This allows you to adjust your production rate as per your needs.

Maintenance

It is quite simple to maintain a stick packing machine.

This allows the operator to repair and replace parts easily.

What are the Limitations of Stick Packing Machine?

The disadvantages of a stick packing machine should not deter you from purchasing one.

They include:

Stick packing machine

Price

The level of technology will determine the price of this machine.

Fully automatic versions will cost more than semi-automatic and manual stick packing machines.

This means the initial cost may be high depending on your production needs.

Power Consumption

Large stick packing machines require a lot of power, thus increase your overall production cost.

Expertise

The operator needs to have some knowledge on how to operate a stick packing machine.

This means you need to spend time and money to train the operators.

Redundancy

The machine may not be of good use after a long time of use.

This means you will have to purchase another machine.

What is the Difference Between a Fully Automatic and Semi-automatic Stick Packing Machine?

Here is the difference between these two machines:

Human Labor

A fully automatic machine performs all functions by itself, while a semi-automatic machine will need some human intervention.

Cost

A fully automatic stick packing machine is more expensive than a semi-automatic machine.

Technological Advancement

Besides, a fully automatic system has a lot of technology than a semi-automatic stick packing machine.

Production Rate

The production capacity of a fully automatic system is higher than that of a semi-automatic system.

Accuracy

The stick packing process is more accurate and efficient in a fully automatic machine than a semi-automatic machine.

How does Multi-lane Stick Packing Machine compare to Single Lane Stick Packing Machine?

 Stick packing equipment

Stick Pack Formation

A single lane stick packing machine will form stick packs in a single vertical configuration.

Multiple lane stick packing machines use several vertical configurations when forming stick packs.

Cost

Multi-lane stick packing machines will cost you extra than single-lane stick packing machines.

Production Capacity

Multi-lane stick packing machines have a high production rate than single stick packing machines.

Company Size

It is suitable to use a single lane stick packing machine if you have a small to mid-sized stick packing industry.

On the contrary, it is suitable to use a multiple lane stick packing machine on large commercial companies.

What should you consider when Purchasing Stick Packing Machine?

Choosing a stick packing machine may be daunting as there are several types of these machines.

This is because there are several manufacturers and the machines have varying features.

Here are some factors that will help you when choosing a stick packing machine:

Stick Packing Category

This will assist you to select the best machine for your production needs.

There are three categories you can find:

1. Stick packing machine for liquids
2. Stick packing machine for powders
3. Stick packing machine for granules

Packing Rate

This is the number of stick packs you plan to produce per unit of time.

Fully automatic stick packing machines will fill several bottles per unit time than semi-automatic stick packing machines.

Also, multi-lane stick packing lanes offer a high packing rate than single-lane stick packing machines.

Hopper Capacity

Ensure the hopper is capable of adequately holding the product without the need for frequent refilling.

This will save you time during the packing process.

Type of Seal

This machine can form either lap seals or fin seals.

Lap seals will overlap the two outer edges hence creating a flat seal.

Fin seals will join the inner parts of the outer edges to create a seal that resembles a fin.

Lap seals are appealing and use up less material.

Application

This depends on the products you plan to stick pack.

The products can be chemical, cosmetic, or for human consumption.

Ensure the machine can handle the product you are packing.

Quality Standards

Always select stick packing machines that comply with international quality standards.

This is to ensure the safety of operators and the products.

Also, it ensures the reliability, effectiveness, and acceptability of the production process in the market.

Body Material

Choose stick packing machines that are of durable stainless steel.

This ensures it performs optimally and will last for long.

Type of Filler

A sick packing machine can come with an auger, volumetric or liquid pump fillers.

Select the one that will suit your production needs.

Financial Budget

The amount you have will influence the type of stick packing machine you can purchase.

However, always go for a machine that is suitable for your production needs.

Also, a small budget may lead to second-rate quality packaging.

It is vital to evaluate the budget estimate between economic views and requirements.

Level of Technology

Technological advancements are happening all the time.

The level of technology that a stick packing machine has will influence its effectiveness.

Besides, technology allows you to produce quality stick packing.

Efficiency

Always purchase a stick packing machine that will produce quality packing processes.

Configuration of Machine

Stick packing machines come in different designs and sizes.

Select the one that will comfortably fit your workspace.

Commercial stick packing machines require a large workspace than small scale stick packing machines.

Maintenance

Having a stick packing equipment that is easy to maintain and repair will lower your operational costs.

Also, ensure the spare parts are easy to acquire in the market.

Besides, being able to replace parts easily will minimize downtime during the packing process.

What are the Features of a Stick Packing Machine?

These features may vary from one machine to another:

• Fully programmable logic controller with HMI.
• No film alarm that notifies operators thus minimizing film wastage.
• Photocell tracking capabilities that achieve high precision.
• Easy support equipment integration.
• Quick tool-free changeover.
• Durable SS 316 stainless steel.
• Emergency stop, count capacity, and ready pack output.
• Powder, granules, or liquid filling capabilities.

What are the Technical Specifications of Stick Packing Machine?

These include:

• Machine weight can go up to 900 kg.
• A maximum film roll diameter of 320 mm.
• Maximum film width of 520 mm.
• Power need of 220 V, and 50 Hz or 60 Hz depending on your region.
• The number of lanes varies from 1 to 12.
• Back sealing or stick bag functionality.
• The air power of 0.8 Mpa with 0.8m³/min.

What Packaging Machine Fillers or Dosers does Stick Packing Machine need?

The type of filler will depend on your production needs.

· Auger Fillers

These are suitable for powder products.

· Multi-head Scales

They are suitable for solid products.

· Liquid Pumps

They measure liquids using a piston mechanism.

How do you Improve the Efficiency of the Stick Packing Machine?

Maintaining a stick packing machine ensures that it works properly and is durable.

Repair and replace faulty electrical components to avoid electrical shocks and fire hazards.

Conduct regular inspections either quarterly or semi-annually to ensure all parts are in good working conditions.

Lubricate all moving parts to minimize tear and wear.

Repair and replace faulty sensors and fuses to ensure the machine operates optimally.

Clean the machine and the sensors regularly to avoid the build-up of dust and moisture from the environment.

Replace broken and faulty motors with new ones to ensure a smooth operation.

Use genuine parts when replacing components to ensure the machine will not break down during operation.

What are Some of the Packaging Line Key Performance Indicators?

These are the best practices that you will apply when using this machine.

They assist you in maintaining the safety of both the machine and operators.

• Safety
• Rework
• Quality
• Equipment effectiveness
• Capacity utilization
• On standard operating efficiency
• Inventory turns
• Inventory accuracy
• Employee turnover
• Unforeseen downtime

How will a Stick Packing Machine Boost your Business?

Here are some ways that this machine will boost your business:

Part of sugar stick packing machine

Quality Packing

This machine will assist you to produce quality and appealing stick packs.

Safety

The machine has sensors that will minimize hazards and packaging losses.

Sanitation

Automatic versions will allow you to maintain high levels of hygiene.

This is because the machine will perform all the packaging steps by itself.

Increase Production

The machine will increase your output since they come with various stick packaging rates.

Lower Recurring Costs

It may be expensive to purchase the automatic versions.

Besides, they will save you on recurring costs in the long run.

How can you Troubleshoot Stick Packing Machine?

Troubleshooting allows you to identify and fix problems.

· Film Wrap Veers off the Center

It may be due to:

1. Loose paper wraps.
2. Belts not aligning.
3. Paper wrap is not at the center of the carriage.

Solve this by aligning the belts and replacing the paper wraps.

· Creases of Film

This is due to:

1. Faulty collars or rollers.
2. Obstruction on the forming rollers.

Solve this by replacing the forming collar and cleaning out obstructions.

· Problems Unwinding Film Wrap

Some causes include:

1. Dirty components with lots of friction.
2. High pressure of belts.

Solve this by cleaning and adjusting the belts properly.

· Jamming Film Wraps

This is due to:

1. Too much pressure on the bands
2. High friction on film wraps

Solve this by feeding proper parameters to lower heat and friction on moving parts.

What Quality Standards should Stick Packing Machine conform to?

This machine should conform to international quality standards for health and safety reasons.

These quality standards are:

Food and Drug Administration [FDA] Quality Standard

FDA will protect public health by ensuring safety, efficiency, and secure drugs and biological products.

European Union CE Marking

All companies in the world accept this quality standard even though it applies to European Economic Areas.

Restriction of Hazardous Substances [RoHS]

This standard assists in reducing environmental effects and health impacts.

It ensures the machine will not produce any harmful substances during its operation.

Current Good Manufacturing Practice [cGMP] quality standard

Current Good Manufacturing Practice quality standard ensures that the machine has:

1. Consistent manufacturing practices.
2. Conforms to international quality standards.
3. Produces quality stick packing processes.

What Factors will Determine the Price of Stick Packing Machine?

There are several factors such as:

• Level of automation
• Brand of machine
• Place of origin
• Production speed
• Design of the machine
• Supply and demand
• Market conditions and economy
• Discounts and sales
• Model and features
• The physical state of the machine

What Sealing Options can Stick Packing Machine use?

The machine can use one of the following sealing options:

• Ultrasonic
• Induction
• Heat seal

What is the Cost of Stick Packing Machine?

This machine can cost anywhere between 500 US dollars to 6500 US dollars.

At SaintyCo, we design a range of packing machines depending on your specific needs and requirements.

Contact us now for all your stick packaging machines.