Vertical form fill seal (VFFS machines) and horizontal form fill seal (HFFS machines) are two different variations of a form fill seal machine that seal the bag or packaging film in different ways. So, what does a form fill seal machine do? To put it simply, a form fill and seal machine uses a flat roll to form a package, fill it with a product, and then seal it.

With competitive price and timely delivery, Kinsun sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

It's important to select the right FFS machine because your materials need to be compatible. Its compatibility affects the efficiency of the packaging process and the quality of the final product. Your packaging provider partner can help you select the appropriate packaging formats.

A horizontal form fill seal machine is a packaging machine that forms, fills, and seals flexible pouches or bags horizontally. Horizontal machines require more room than vertical packaging machines. Although they can wrap everything from small objects to bulky items, HFFS are best for single (and solid) goods. The types of items you'll often see packaged in horizontal machines are single serving food items, like bakery products and protein bars, making horizontal seal machines a popular choice in the food industry.

As you probably guessed, a VFFS machine is used in the packaging industry to form, fill, and seal flexible pouches vertically. VFFS machines are suitable for powder, granular, or liquid products that need to be packaged in a stable and leak-proof manner. Though this packaging machine can be used to package some solids, vertical baggers are usually used for liquids and other consistencies that are difficult for HFFS machines to handle. If you're packaging a liquid, VFFS machines are your best bet.

So, how do you choose between horizontal and VFFS machines? It ultimately comes down to your own unique circumstances, as each of these form fill seal machines has its own unique pros and cons. Before you can decide, you'll need to ask yourself these questions:

HFFS machines are ideal for solid and irregular product shapes. VFFS machines, on the other hand, are the preferred choice for powders, granules, and liquids. If you're packaging electronic components or a user friendly control panel, you'll want to go with an HFFS machine. If you're packaging laundry detergent or liquid dish soap, a VFFS machine is the way to go.

If production speed is of the essence (i.e., you use a conveyor belt and need to seal packages quickly), horizontal form fill seal machines can pack up to 400 bags a minute. A VFFS machine is slower.

If you have a lot of space to house your production line, you can get away with horizontal form fill seal machines. A VFFS machine is a good choice for various industries with a smaller facility.

Regardless of the packaging equipment you choose, both HFFS and VFFS machines allow for precise control, allowing you to maintain high product quality. Though both may have a higher initial investment than other options and have ongoing maintenance costs, they're both great choices.

If you have questions about how to package your diverse product lines, we can help. We know how HFFS and VFFS machines work and have tons of experience with both types of machines. If precise product presentation is important to you, we can help provide the packaging your product deserves. Whether you're a start up or an established company, our packaging design services can help take your brand to the next level.

Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine Guide: Everything You Need to Know

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Are you looking for a machine that can do the whole process, from shaping bags to filling them? Then, go with a vertical form fill seal machine (VFFS) solution.

This way, you won&#;t have to bother purchasing pouches of multiple sizes or designs for your industry. Also, the VFFS machine is best for versatility and accurate filling.

Let&#;s explore in this article what a VFFS machine is and its types, applications, etc&#;

What Is A Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine?

The vertical form fill seal, or VFFS machine is designed to make pouches from roll film. It is an automatic machine that performs vertically to fill and seal the bags. Also, the machine works with products like granules, liquids, and powder. 

Besides, the vertical machine runs fast and fills around 200 pouches each minute. However, this number fluctuates depending on the machine model. 

Types Of Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine

Various types are available in the market, each with a unique system. Let&#;s explore them in more detail. 

1. VFFS Intermittent Motion Machine

The intermittent motion machines operate in cycles and stop briefly to process each step and then run again. With the stop-and-go operation, they improve product placement and are perfect for applications requiring high precision. 

2. VFFS Continuous Motion Machine

Unlike intermittent motion, continuous motion machines never stop. They have done the whole process in the running. So, these machines will do your filling and sealing process in less time, 

3. Based On The Drive System

Pneumatic VFFS Machines

Typically, these machines cut and seal the pouches by using compressed air. They are known for their cost-effectiveness and versatility in handling various product types. 

Pros

Cons

Easy to operate Reliable and durableLess initial costs

High power consumptionLess speed than servo-driven machines

Servo-Driven VFFS Machines

Unlike pneumatic machines, servo-driven VFFS machines operate with electric motors to cut and seal the bags. Therefore, they have higher speed capacity and are ideal for large production. 

Pros

Cons

Excellent flexibleHigh accuracyConsume less energy than pneumatic machines 

More initial and maintenance costsComplex operation

4. Based On The Filling System:

Auger Filler

Auger filler is a filler process that is ideal for powder items like species, flour, etc. It uses a rotating screw to transport the product from a hopper to the packaging area. Moreover, auger fillers are popular for precise filling measurements. 

Pros

Cons

VersatileMore accuracy

ExpensiveNeed maintenance

Volumetric Cup Filler

Do you have an industry for granule products like brown sugar, nuts, and rice? The volumetric cup filler will be helpful for you then. It measures the products accurately and fills them into pouches, allowing you to adjust the system smoothly when needed. 

Pros

Cons

Simple to operate and adjustAffordable

Not so accurate measure

Combination Weigher

A combination weigher often comes with different units to measure the product. It can be used to weigh food, snacks, and many other items. 

Pros

Cons

Can provide great speedAble to work with many shapes and types of pouches

High costRequired frequent maintenance

Piston Filler

Usually, piston filler is used to measure liquid items like milk, sauce, etc. Also, you can use piston filler to pack medical and cosmetics contents. 

For more information, please visit Small Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine.

Pros

Cons

Can handle a wide range of viscosities productsEnsure perfect accuracy

More expensive

Advantages Of Using A VFFS Packaging Machine?

Let&#;s see some of the crucial benefits of the VFFS packaging machine here-

Improved Efficiency: The VFFS machines increase the speed of the process and overall productivity. Therefore, they can pack hundreds of bags in a minute. As these machines are automated, they reduce downtime and labor costs. Importantly, VFFS is essential in packaging food items and maintaining the quality of the product.  

Versatile Packaging Solutions: This packaging machine can hold several types of products in different bag types, such as pillow, gusset, flat, etc. It also handles different material pouches, from plastic to laminated. So, if you have a diverse production industry, you will undoubtedly benefit most. 

Cost-effective: Along with saving labor costs, the VFFS machine also reduces waste. At the same time, with these machines, you minimize product loss, as they offer errorless filling. 

Branding: The VFFS machine&#;s printing features can help you promote your brand. More specifically, print your brand information, like your brand name or logo, on the package.

Space Efficiency: Do you have limited space in your manufacturing area? Don&#;t worry! Unlike other packaging machines, VFFS takes up less space. 

Ensure Product Safety: The VFFS machine ensures product safety by providing an airtight seal. Because of the tight sealing, oxygen and moisture can&#;t attack the product inside pouches. This is particularly necessary for food and other industries where mold can damage the products.

Drawbacks Of Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine

VFFS machines are more expensive than other packaging machines.Required training for new users to operate the machine. 

Equipment Of Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine

Here, I have mentioned some key components of VFFS machines. Those make the machine easy to operate and perform&#;

Film Delivery System: This system maintains a continuous supply of packaging film. It unrolls the film, aligns it correctly, and is free from wrinkles. Also, the system keeps consistent tension and feeds the film into the machine for further processing. Forming Tube: With this component, VFFS machines shape the flat film into a tubular form. It gives the pouches a perfect shape and design.  Filling: The filling system deposits the product into the formed pouch. Based on the product, it can be equipped with various fillers, such as volumetric, weight-based, or auger. This system ensures precise and consistent filling volumes. Sealing: The VFFS machine often uses heat, pressure, and ultrasonic methods to bond the film layers together. It ensures airtight seals for security and keeps the product fresh.  Cutting: The cutting system separates pouches from the continuous film. It uses blades or knives to make precise cuts along predetermined lines, ensuring uniform pouch sizes.  Other Items: VFFS also comes with a printer. Using it, you can print ingredients on your package. Often, these machines have zip-lock features and gas flush options.

How Does A Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine Work?

The VFFS machine starts by forming the film into pouches. After that, it moves the bag to the next station, where it fills the bag with products. Then, it cuts and seals the package before discharging the bag. However, to learn the whole process step by step, read How Do Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) Packaging Machines Work? Step-by-Step Process.

Applications Of Vertical Form Fill Seal Machine 

Let&#;s take a look at the common uses of VFFS machines in the below section-

• Food Industry: From frozen food, coffee, and snacks to bakery items, VFFS machines hold a wide range of products. They also extend food shelf life by preventing mold, so they keep food items fresh for days to months.

• Personal Care and Cosmetics: The VFFS can store lotion, powder, cream, and many other cosmetics. This is because the machine can handle several-size bags and has a proper filling and sealing system.

• Pet Food Industry: VFFS machines are often used to package cats, dogs, and other pet foods. They maintain product quality by reducing oxygen consumption. 

• Industrial Goods: In addition to food and cosmetics, the VFFS machines can be used for detergents and construction surface packaging. Their flexibility makes the machines ideal for different products and bags. 

• Medical Devices: These devices can also pack syringes, medicine, and other pharmaceutical items. They ensure product quality and safety. 

What Pouch Styles Can VFFS Be Formed?

VFFS machines can work with several pouch styles, a few of them are&#;

Pillow Bag: As the name suggests, these bags are pillow-shaped. They usually have a top and bottle seal, and their backside is sealed, making them easy to open. For their unique shape, they are also known as t-seal pouches. Gusset Bag: Often, a gusset bag comes with a side and bottom gusset to make more room for products. This feature makes them stand still on the shelves. So the customer notices the package and boosts sales.3-sided Seal Bag: VFFS machines also work with a 3-sided seal bag. Typically, these pouches are sealed on two sides and the bottom. They left the top open so it would be easy to tear up. If you want to pack a small amount, use a three-sided sealed bag. 4-sided Seal Bag: These bag types are ideal for single-serve products. With four-sided seals, they become flat and can store tiny products, making them easy to carry. Stick Pack: With long and narrow shapes, they hold powder and liquid contents. These stick packs are perfect for sample and single-serve use.

Choosing The Right VFFS Machine For Your Business

You can choose the suitable VFFS device for your business considering a few factors mentioned below-

Product Types

Whether you have an industry for liquid, granule, or powder products, check that the machine can handle those products before purchasing one. Although the VFFS machine can also handle different materials, like plastic, foil, and even paper, it&#;s always best to ensure configuration. 

Packaging Speed 

Based on the model, these machines can fill bags ranging from 10 to 200 each minute. Depending on the demands of your business, choose between continuous or intermittent, multi-lane packaging or multi-packing machine.

Machine Size and Footprint

While selecting a VFFS machine, consider the space in your factory. For instance, the machine&#;s size and footprint must comfortably fit within your production area. Typically, the larger the packaging bag, the larger the VFFS machine will be, considering the height and footprint of the different lifting, weighing, and filling auxiliary machines.

Operator Skill Level 

VFFS machines are easy to operate, whether you are a first-time operator or an experienced expert, I am sure you will easy to operate a VFFS machine according to the operator&#;s manual and the manufacturer&#;s instructions.

Find a Reliable Manufacturer or Supplier

Finally, finding a reliable manufacturer or supplier is significant. They not only offer quality products but also ensure consumer support. Choose HonorPack to get high-quality VFFS machines. 

Identifying And Troubleshooting Common VFFS Machine Problems

Let&#;s take a look at some of the problems and troubleshoot ideas of the VFFS machine-

Film Tracking Issues: Film tracing problems are often caused by the machine&#;s worn rollers, unaligned film, and improper tension. 

Solution: You should check the film and inspect the tension control. If you find any problems in these systems, fix them quickly. 

Irregular Bag Lengths: Irregular bag lengths can result from inconsistent film feed or sensor malfunctions. The main causes are worn drive belts, incorrect sensor calibration, or film slippage. 

Solution: Inspect the drive belts for wear; if the belts are the problem, replace them immediately. Also, recalibrate the sensors and ensure the film is feeding consistently without slipping.

Machine Downtime: VFFS downtime can result from mechanical failures, electrical issues, or improper maintenance. It will minimize your productivity. 

Solution: This problem can be avoided by regularly examining and servicing critical components like motors, belts, and sensors.

Product Getting Caught in Seals: Does your VFFS machine often get its product caught in seals? This can be annoying when packaging, right? Products are usually caught in seals due to overfilling, improper timing, or product buildup.  

Solution: You must check and adjust the filling mechanism timing settings and ensure the sealing jaws are clean.

Poor Seal Integrity: This problem in VFFS machines can lead to leaks and compromised product safety. Incorrect sealing temperatures, dirty sealing jaws, and misaligned films are common causes of poor seal integrity. 

Solution: Examine the temperature settings, clean the sealing components, and check the film is aligned correctly.

Conclusion

Still confused about VFFS machines and whether you should buy them? Well, let me clarify again: VFFS machines are among the most reliable machines for your industry, as they can help you to make several pouch styles and handle a wide range of products. It also ensures airtight seals, prevents products from mold, and keeps them fresh. 

To get the best VFFS machine, contact HonorPack now. 

FAQs

What is the principle of the form fill seal machine?

The principle of the form fill seal machine is to create the bag from the film into different sizes and shapes. Then, it fills the pouches with products and finally seals. Often, some machines come with features like print and weighing the amount of the product. 

What is the difference between hffs machines and vertical form fill seal machines?

The critical difference between these two machines is their operating system. For instance, horizontal form fill seal machines package products lying horizontally. On the other hand, vertical or VFFS machines work vertically, which is best for packing grains and liquid contents. 

Can I pair my VFFS machine with just any film?

No, unfortunately, you can&#;t pair your VFFS machine with just any film. The film must be compatible with the machine&#;s sealing mechanisms, product type, and packaging requirements. If you use the wrong film, it can lead to poor seals, product damage, and machine malfunctions. 

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Francis

Packaging Machine Specialists

Hi, I&#;m Francis Wu, Founder and General Manager of HonorPack, I have been running a factory producing packaging machinery in China for 20 years, discussing equipment and operation with our technical staff and communicating with our experienced packaging experts..

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