F-series: self-thinking thermoformers

FAQ 关于 F系列热成型拉伸膜包装机

• Can the machine consistently achieve the required pack quality and shelf life?

  Owing to their consistent sealing process, regardless whether using modified atmosphere packaging or vacuum skin packaging, SEALPAC thermoformers always guarantee maximum shelf life. Naturally, this also depends on the packaging materials used and the production environment (e.g. hygiene and temperature). We can achieve low residual oxygen levels in case of sensitive products, hermetically sealed packs in case of bone-in or marinated products, and provide for consumer-friendly opening of the packs. Furthermore, SEALPAC thermoformers have been designed to run at stable, high outputs. They are capable of running any kind of material, including the most demanding mono-films, and turn these into packs with maximum appeal on the retail shelves.

• What throughput can realistically be achieved in our factory (over a full shift)?

  The output always depends on a number of factors, such as product, format, packaging concept, and production environment. A packaging line can only go as fast as its slowest component, but this will not be the SEALPAC thermoformer. However, line efficiency is also important. Every unplanned interruption, inefficient movement, or disruption in the process directly impacts production costs. Against this backdrop, our packaging machines are consistently designed for stable, reproducible processes. We rely on robust construction, intelligent monitoring systems, and automated assistance functions that ensure flawless operation again and again. As such, our thermoformers achieve the highest OEE in the market, sometimes up to 99.5%. In addition, SEALPAC thermoformers are designed to run all current and future packaging concepts on the same base machine. For this, they are equipped with innovative quick tooling exchange systems that make switching between different applications easy and avoid unnecessary machine downtime.

• How flexible is the thermoformer for future product and packaging changes?

  SEALPAC thermoformers are designed to run all current and future packaging concepts on the same base machine. Both for flexible and rigid film applications. For this reason, they are equipped with innovative quick tooling exchange systems that make switching between different applications easy and avoid unnecessary machine downtime. On our thermoformers, for example, the sealing top tool can be replaced with minimum effort using a special trolley. This makes the exchange not only much quicker, but also safer for your employees, who no longer have to lift or carry heavy components. Other quick exchange systems include the side exchange or swivel table for bottom tools. Furthermore, SEALPAC equipment is known for its flawless integration into new and existing production lines. As such, the machines enable you to set up fully automated solutions for the processing and packaging of your products. Even in the future.

• Can the thermoformer run sustainable and recyclable packaging materials effectively?

  Each thermoformer supports a wide range of packaging solutions, from classic MAP applications to today’s sustainable material concepts. Innovative packaging features can also be integrated, such as the unique EasyPeelPoint system, which enables particularly user-friendly opening of the pack by the consumer. The combination of high precision and intelligent control ensures that the machine reliably handles even the most complicated materials and geometries. As such, our thermoformers are capable of running any modern, recyclable materials, including the most demanding mono-films, without any headaches.
  
  For each product, we support our customers by reducing the thickness of plastic used in their current packaging, as well as by introducing hybrid solutions. On our SEALPAC thermoformers, we offer the unique SmartShape forming system that achieves an improved consistency, particularly in the corners of the pack, without requiring an additional stamp mechanism. As a result, up to 10% thinner films can be used. All this, without compromising on shelf life. We can also run paper-based films.

• What is the total cost of ownership (TCO)?

  When evaluating a packaging line, simply looking at the investment costs is no longer sufficient. What matters is how efficient the line is in daily operation and what the actual cost per package is. Energy consumption, material usage, changeover times, uptime, and process stability, even when using more challenging mono-materials, are directly interconnected. The total cost of ownership can only be determined by knowing your exact production details. In general, we know that the investment costs of a SEALPAC machine are less than 3% of the total line costs, that we have 90% less air consumption by using servo technology, and that we can run up to 10% thinner films on our thermoformers due to the SmartShape forming technology. Furthermore, our machines are built to last: over 95% of every thermoformer ever built is still in operation!

• How easy is the machine to clean and maintain?

  Due to their sophisticated, hygienic design with optimal accessibility, SEALPAC thermoformers stand for enhanced protection of both product and personnel. Whether it concerns the stainless-steel body that can be hosed down, the integrated slopes that optimize water drainage, or the avoidance of interfering contours: our machines allow for fast, simple and reliable cleaning.

• What level of service and technical support is available locally?

  At SEALPAC, we think global but act local, as we believe our customers are served best by an expert that knows their market. Therefore, we work with a network of carefully selected distributors. Supported by SEALPAC’s export office located in The Netherlands, and by the engineers in our German factory, these distributors provide project advice, installation, training, maintenance, spare parts and after-sales service with regard to the SEALPAC equipment at their local customers. Even if something unavoidable occurs, their service technicians will solve it in the shortest possible time, so that you can fulfil your production schedule and delivery requirements.

• How well does the thermoformer integrate with the rest of the production line?

  SEALPAC equipment is known for its flawless integration into new and existing production lines. As such, the machines enable you to set up fully automated solutions for the processing and packaging of your products. Any synchronization, be it with slicers, filling systems, multi-head weighers, coding equipment, labellers, metal detection, or even end-of-line equipment for secondary packaging, is made easy. Furthermore, SEALPAC thermoformers are fully prepared for Industry 4.0, meaning that they can be easily integrated into digitalized production environments via standardized interfaces, such as OPC/UA. This allows for maximum control and traceability.

• What food safety and regulatory standards does the system comply with?

  Each SEALPAC thermoformer is CE-certified, but that is not enough. We also have our equipment tested according to the strict German GS quality mark. This guarantees maximum safety for your operators. The scope of the GS mark includes essential product characteristics, such as electrical safety, ergonomics, and noise, but also covers an evaluation of our factory production. Initially designed for the German market, it is now a worldwide recognized mark of quality and safety, which ensures that our machines adhere to the highest possible standards.

• Can you prove success with products similar to ours?

  We supply our thermoformers to renowned retailers, food manufacturers, and medical companies around the world. Seeing is believing, so we invite you to visit our high-end factory in Oldenburg, Germany, to experience the SEALPAC thermoformers in action and see how they are built. You can bring your product to see how this is packaged under real-life conditions in our SEALPAC Experience Center. Or we can take you to one of our reference customers.