Sachets are primarily packed using an automated process known as Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS).
Sachet packing is a highly efficient method for packaging small, single-use portions of various products, from liquids and powders to gels and small solid items. The core of this process relies on specialized machinery that handles the forming, filling, and sealing of the sachet in a continuous, vertical motion.
The Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) Method
According to the provided reference, sachets are filled using a method called vertical form fill seal (VFFS), which is done using a vertical form fill seal machine. This sophisticated machinery plays a crucial role in high-speed sachet production.
Here's a simplified breakdown of how the VFFS process typically works:
- Film Unwinding: A large, flat roll of flexible packaging film is fed into the machine.
- Forming the Pouch: The film is guided around a forming tube or collar, which shapes it into a continuous tube with overlapping edges.
- Vertical Sealing: A vertical sealing bar seals the overlapping edges of the film tube, creating a continuous tube structure.
- Bottom Sealing: A horizontal sealing bar seals the bottom of the tube, creating the base of the first sachet (or the top of the previous one).
- Filling: The product (liquid, powder, etc.) is precisely measured and dropped down through the center of the forming tube into the partially formed sachet.
- Top Sealing and Cutting: Once filled, a horizontal sealing bar seals the top of the sachet (which becomes the bottom of the next sachet). A cutting mechanism then separates the completed sachet from the continuous tube.
The reference highlights that this produces a single sachet from a flat roll of film. Crucially, the sachets will be formed as the product is filled. This means the process integrates the creation of the sachet structure with the product insertion.
Benefits of VFFS for Sachets
- Speed and Efficiency: VFFS machines are capable of high-speed operation, producing a large volume of sachets quickly.
- Cost-Effective: Using a roll of film and forming the pouch on-demand can be more economical than using pre-made pouches.
- Versatility: VFFS machines can handle various film types and package different product types.
- Compact Footprint: The vertical design saves floor space compared to some other packaging methods.
In summary, the packing of sachets is a streamlined, automated process largely facilitated by Vertical Form Fill Seal (VFFS) machines, where the sachet is formed and filled simultaneously from a continuous roll of film.
