Impulse Sealers for Packaging

Impulse sealers are effective for an extremely wide range of packaging applications. Sealers can be purchased for high and low speed production levels, and for the sealing of large and small bags in a variety of styles. Equipment can be fixed or highly portable. Simple equipment designs are available as cost effective alternatives for low volume applications, and extremely sophisticated machines are available for high speed and demanding use. The most basic variety of the device is a hand held unit, where a packager seals the bag by manually lowering the seal bar. If throughput requirements are higher, operators can use units activated by a simple floor pedal, allowing the operator to insert products into bags more quickly. For high speed packaging operations, automatic sealers are available that run in a continuous mode. Regardless of sealer type, the cutter blade and teflon strips must be replaced on a regular basis to ensure seals are applied properly. These part replacements are generally simple to complete, and we always recommend having spare parts on hand.

The Selection Process

In most instances, polyethylene bags or tubing are used in conjunction with impulse sealers. Devices are selected based on the characteristics of the plastic material – thickness, size, and specific film formulation variables. The length of the seal bar should always extend slightly beyond the width of the bag, in order to apply a secure seal. Seal bar lengths can be as small as 4 inches wide, and run up to over 20 inches in sealing capacity. A critical consideration in the selection process is seal width. The wider the seal, the more secure it is. If the product to be packaged is valuable, heavy, or likely to encounter stress in shipment or storage, a wider seal is preferred. Products that are vulnerable to contamination, including food products and many liquids, should always be sealed as securely as possible. Seal widths can be as low as 2mm, or as wide 12mm and higher. For higher speed applications using poly tubing, the sealer incorporates a cutting device to separate and form the bag as the tubing feeds through. Specialized impulse sealers are available for closure of polypropylene and other plastic materials, and stainless steel models are commonly found in packaging operations where the environment is harsh.

Packaging Automation for Impulse Sealers

Evaluating the type of product being bagged and what type of handling it will receive in transit and storage mainly determine the necessary length and width of the seal mechanism to be used. Packaging volume and line speed determine the level of automation that is required. It is very important to select a machine that is consistent with packaging volume. If an inferior sealer is selected – one designed for a lower volume – seals will be inconsistent or fail, and parts will require ongoing, frequent replacement. The result is extreme and costly downtime which far outweighs the price of a suitable system. As experts in both flexible packaging materials and automation systems, Heritage Pioneer is well positioned to provide help in the selection process for sealing devices in all industries, including processed food, pharmaceutical, retail, and industrial.

Heritage Pioneer can aid you in choosing proper Impulse Sealers for your project. Or, visit our main page for other packaging solutions.