Key Questions to Ask When Ordering Automatic Powder Filling Machine

In the world of packaging machinery, it may seem odd to refer to a diverse range of products like baking mixes, ground coffee, spices, and powdered sugar simply as "powders." However, regardless of the industry, producers share similar priorities when it comes to evaluating packaging solutions for their products.

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When it comes to selecting packaging equipment for your free-flowing powder product, the sheer number of models and brands available can be overwhelming. However, before diving into the comparison of run rates, technical features, and bag styles, it is essential to determine which factors are truly crucial for your business. Automation, accuracy, accessibility, and long-term support are some of the key considerations that can greatly impact the long-term success of your operation.

The importance and prioritization of these categories may vary depending on the type of product and your specific performance needs. Nevertheless, they all play a vital role in ensuring the efficiency and sustainability of your business.

High Automation for High OEE

When selecting a powder filling machine, one of the primary considerations is the level of automation required to streamline production. Some auger filling machines are designed with advanced automation capabilities, while others offer more manual operation features. If you have a low current volume and staffing is not a pressing concern, investing in a highly automated solution may not provide a justifiable return. However, if you are aiming for higher output, automation will significantly impact your overall performance.

Automated filling components, though not exclusive to powder filling, are particularly well-suited for high-volume operations. These machines often boast advanced features that enable you to accomplish more with fewer labor resources. For instance, certain models offer hands-free washdown capabilities or the ability to adjust auger screw rotation based on measured weight or volume, reducing the need for constant monitoring by operators. This level of automation proves invaluable in high-speed operations where precision is paramount, thus leading us to the next evaluation category: filling accuracy.

Filling Accuracy

The higher the value of your powder product, the higher that filling accuracy is going to fall on your list of priorities. Powder packing filling accuracy can be tricky, because even environmental factors can affect the density of the product being fed to your filling component. 

For example, humidity level changes from day to day can change how dense a powdered product will become at room temperature. Temperature fluctuations throughout shifts can cause similar problems- so to avoid having quality issues with low-accuracy machine components, it's important to choose products that are built to adapt as the production environment fluctuates. 

These machines can be fully integrated with the bagger to include auxiliary sensors to monitor fill weights and can adjust settings automatically, minimizing variance in density across different powders. Accurate powder filling machines help ensure that end-users do not experience quality issues due to too much variance in overall powder weight percentage and help you to minimize product giveaway.

Powder Filling Machine Accessibility

A third crucial factor to consider when evaluating powder packaging solutions is the level of accessibility. What is packaging machine accessibility? This is the level at which operators and maintenance people can visually and/or manually gain access to a variety of  components on their machinery, as needed. This can be anything from the electrical components, to the product in the machine. 

High machine accessibility ultimately translates to shorter periods of downtime for washdown, which saves you money. It's important that maintenance tasks are not only easy but also safe so they can be carried out effectively shift after shift, year after year. 

There are a variety of solutions available to help your operation meet hygiene and automation requirements and allow for faster changeovers. ROVEMA auger fillers are available with automated, chemical-free washdown systems as well as a split door hopper that allows for easy cleaning and maintenance and also feature a window on the side of the hopper to allow operators to monitor the product. 

Tech Support and Long Term Customer Experience

When you invest in capital equipment that you plan to have for decades, it's crucial to have a thorough understanding of what your overall experience will be like when issues arise. It's not enough to simply purchase high-quality and reliable packaging machinery; you must also ensure that the technical support, training, and wear parts provided by the manufacturer are of the same caliber.

Technical support plays a vital role in the long-term success of your operation. If  when unexpected problems occur, you need a support team that is knowledgeable, accessible, and responsive. It's frustrating and costly to be left waiting for hours or days to get assistance. Your support team should be readily available to provide guidance and resolve any issues efficiently. They should feel like an extension of your own team, dedicated to your success.

In addition to technical support, training is another important aspect to consider. Investing in high-quality packaging machinery means that you want to maximize its potential and ensure that your operators are fully equipped to operate and maintain the equipment effectively. Look for manufacturers that provide comprehensive training programs to ensure that your operators have the necessary skills and knowledge to optimize machine performance.

Wear parts are also a critical consideration when evaluating packaging machinery. High-quality and durable wear parts are essential to minimize downtime and maintenance costs. You want to avoid constantly replacing worn-out parts or dealing with frequent breakdowns. A reputable manufacturer will offer reliable and long-lasting wear parts, ensuring that your machinery operates smoothly and consistently.

Furthermore, it's essential that your support team understands the urgency and cost implications of machinery issues. Emergencies can arise at any time, and you need a support team that prioritizes your needs. They should be responsive and efficient in addressing any problems, minimizing the impact on your production and profitability.

Diving Deeper: Evaluating Your Machinery Solution

If you're currently deep in the weeds of evaluating a solution for your products and need a tool to help break down additional specifics, I recommend downloading our free comparison matrix spreadsheet. It's a good starting point for evaluating different vendors and machine specs and can help you understand where ROVEMA falls on the spectrum for many critical factors.

- Monday, October 14,

Squeeze tubes are a popular type of packaging. They come in a collapsible structure that offers an easy and affordable way to store and dispense semi-solids. The products that can be tube packaged include hand creams, toothpaste, lotions, ointments, paints, and adhesives.

A tube filling machine is specifically designed for squeeze tube packaging. Buying machinery can always be a bit overwhelming. To find the best tube filling machine for your marketing needs, we suggest preparing yourself to answer and ask these questions.

9 Questions that Tube Filling Machine Suppliers Might Ask You

What type of products will you be filling?

Semi-solids can be low-viscosity liquids or high-viscosity substances. The configuration and features of a tube filling machine will vary depending on the nature of the products, such as viscosities and characteristics. As mentioned before, tube filling machines offer a wide spectrum of applications. So, what products can this machine fill?

Industries

Types of Products

Pharmaceutical

Ointments

Creams

Gels

Lotions

Cosmetics and Personal Care

Skincare Products

Toothpaste

Shaving Creams

Sunscreen Lotions

Food

Sauces and Condiments

Mayonnaise

Mustard

Honey

Household and Cleaning Products

Adhesives and Glues

Cleaning Creams

Hand Sanitizers

Automotive

Lubricants

Sealants

Adhesives

Veterinary

Pet Ointments

Pet Shampoos and Conditioners

Art and Craft Supplies

Glues

Paints

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Sealants

Electronic Components

Thermal Pastes

Conductive Adhesives

Are you looking for automatic or semi-automatic operation?

Tube filling machines are available in many types. Each has different features. For example, semi-automatic and fully automatic tube filling machines are designed to meet specific filling requirements.

They may differ in filling accuracy, production capacity, or other specifications. This question will help the supplier recommend the right machine. So, you won't overinvest in the model you won't fully utilize.

*Compare iPharMachine semi-automatic and fully automatic tube filling machines side-by-side.

Model

CNF-30A

NF-60Z

Power Supply

220 V ±10%

380 V or 220 V

Motor Power

750 W

1.1 kW

Filling Volume (ml)

0-250

3-150

Production Capacity

0-20 pcs/min

- pcs/hr

Filling Accuracy

±1%

' ±1%

Air Pressure

> 0.4MPa

0.5-0.7MPa

Dimensions (L*W*H) 

 x 800 x (mm)

 × 850 ×  (mm)

Weight

350 kg

850 kg

Do you require hot or cold filling?

Depending on the nature of your products, some may need to be filled at higher temperatures to increase their flow rate. Some require cold filling to maintain product integrity. This helps the supplier to determine the heating or cooling features needed for the machine.

What tube sizes and shapes are you planning to use?

In terms of marketing requirements, you might intend to use squeeze tube packaging of a specific size or shape. Tube fillers can be designed to meet your requirements. Knowing this ensures the supplier recommends a machine that accommodates your chosen packaging.

Have you considered integrating the machine into your current production line?

The question helps potential suppliers gather necessary information about your workflow. This enables them to configure or recommend a tube filling machine that is compatible with your existing production line. With such a machine, your manufacturing efficiency will be greatly enhanced.

Do you have any specific features you would like to add to the machine?

Most tube filling machines available on the market have filling and sealing features. They can also be customed based on your filling projects. If you need features like multi-product fill, separate cooling system, overload protection, code printing or embossing, and more, let your suppliers know so they can recommend a machine that meets your expectations and preferences.

Are there any regulatory standards for your industry?

If you're working in the pharmaceutical or food industry, compliance with industry regulations is particularly crucial. Knowing this ensures the supplier recommends or builds a tube filling machine with your industry-specific standards in mind. This helps you enhance product integrity and safety, avoiding compliance issues.

What is your available floor space?

The above comparison table of semi-automatic and fully automatic tube filling machines shows the different physical footprints of these machines. Knowing this allows suppliers to recommend a machine that fits seamlessly into your production facility.

What is your budget range for a tube filling machine?

Inquiring about your budget constraints for a tube filling machine helps suppliers understand your financial considerations. Knowing this lets them narrow down the options and recommend a machine that aligns with your budget.

9 Questions to Ask When Shopping for a Tube Filling Machine

What is the machine's production capacity?

Tube filling machines have a range of types. Their production capacity varies depending on the type. If you want to find a machine that best suits your production scale, you need to figure out if the machine is capable of filling and sealing the number of tubes you require.

Can the machine handle different tube sizes, shapes, and materials?

Squeeze tube packaging is typically made from plastic, aluminum, and composite materials. In addition to the material, the tubes may come in different sizes and shapes depending on the product categories. If you're handling more than one product portfolio, knowing this helps determine if the machine is flexible enough to accommodate diverse tube specifications.

How user-friendly is the machine in terms of operation and maintenance?

Whether a manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic machine, ease of operation and maintenance is crucial. A user-friendly tube filling machine can save you time training your operators and maintenance procedures. That is to say, an easy-to-use machine helps improve your productivity.

Is the machine customizable for specific production requirements?

If you require a different product format changeover or plan to scale up your business, a tube filler with customizability is always a must-have. Ask suppliers whether the machine can be tailored to your specific requirements. Additionally, you'd better ask them if the machine requires no need for extensive modifications or additional equipment to address the changes.

What safety features are integrated into the machine for operator and product safety?

Safety is a top priority in the manufacturing process. The machine's safety features ensure a safe working environment for both operators and products. The safety features include emergency stop buttons, safety guards, and fault protection.

What technical support or training is provided?

Training is essential if this is your first time using a tube filling machine. Ask suppliers if they provide any training programs to equip your team with sufficient knowledge to keep the machine running smoothly. Additionally, in case the machine comes across any issues during operation, a reliable supplier will offer the necessary technical support to help get your production back on track.

Do you offer virtual tours or video demonstrations of your machinery?

As an overseas customer, viewing the machine in person might not be convenient. You can ask suppliers if they offer a live video demonstration of the machine. We, iPharMachine, in addition to virtual tours of our facility, have set up a showroom in the United States to display our machines, allowing customers there to inspect the machines and get to know them better.

What kind of warranty is offered with the machine, and what does it cover?

Most tube filling machines on the market are backed by a one or two-year warranty. This question helps you know what support the supplier will provide if your machine has any problems during this period. Also, you will understand what specific issues or parts are included in the warranty coverage. So you can prepare ahead for any potential expenses or issues.

What is the lead time for delivery?

Knowing the lead time for delivery allows you to understand when the machine can expect to be shipped to your location. With this information, you can make a plan for your production and logistics accordingly.

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