How to correctly choose an HFFS or VFFS machine for powder packaging?

How to choose a flat-pouch packaging machine for powders? Why do some people prefer horizontal forming filling and sealing ( HFFS ) machines when the same production capacity is required? This article provides an objective look at HFFS and VFFS machines.

Part 1: Brief Introduction to HFFS and VFFS Machines:

HFFS Machine: It is a fully automatic horizontal roll-film forming, filling, and sealing machine designed for stand-up pouch and flat-pouch. Now also can be customized with zipper, spout, shaped, hanging-hole and other functions.

VFFS machine: It is the automatic vertical forming filling sealing machine designed for flat-pouch, pillow bag and gusset bag. Commonly used in packaging for snack foods such as potato chips and nuts, as well as laundry detergent packaging.

Part 2: Introduction to Powders:

Because the characteristics of powders are complex—for example, the specific gravity, dust content, sugar content, viscosity, etc. all affect the feeding method and the choice of packaging machine, we will only provide a brief overview here.

Part 3: Brief Introduction to the Advantages and Disadvantages of horizontal sachet packing machine and vertical packing machines:

Horizontal Sachet Packing Machine:
Advantages:

• Enables multi-functional packaging;
• can package various materials on a single machine;
• high filling accuracy; good sealing;
• and can switch between various bag types.
• Especially recommended for packaging stand-up pouches, zipper bags, and spout pouches.

Disadvantages: Large footprint; high price.

Vertical Packing Machine:
Advantages:

• Small footprint;
• can easily package powders in soft bags.
• Fast packaging speed; low price.
• Especially recommended for packaging back-seal bags and gusset bags, this vertical packing machine is a good choice.

Disadvantages: Relatively simple packaging; average sealing; limited packaging materials (can achieve simple mixing).

Part 4: In what situations is an HFFS machine better?

1. For powder products with varying specific gravities (mixed powders), horizontal flat-pouch packaging machines can provide secondary or multiple feeding methods. Vertical packaging machines currently cannot achieve secondary feeding. Therefore, for such products, horizontal packaging offers better precision. For example: milk powder with a spoon, multivitamin solid drinks, etc.

2. For extremely fine powders, such as milk powder, cocoa powder, protein powder, and other powdered products that are prone to dust generation, horizontal packing packing machines for flat pouch are easier to use for dust removal. The top-opening and independent filling station can be closely connected to a dust collector, more effectively controlling dust generation. A bag-tapping function can also be added to reduce powder residue at the filling nozzle, resulting in better packaging seal. Vertical packaging machines, on the other hand, generate friction and static electricity between the film and bag former during powder packaging, leading to dust adsorption and making it impossible to control dust generation as well as horizontal sachet packing machines. However, for powders such as laundry detergent, flour, and spices, many companies in the market choose vertical packaging machines.

In summary: Both HFFS and VFFS machines have their own advantages and disadvantages. They can both perform excellent powder packaging. However, in special cases, we need to consider more factors: such as economy, aesthetics, and functionality, which are all important factors influencing our choice of packaging machine type.

What type of product do you have? What are its characteristics? Are you still considering which type of packaging machine to use? Contact me now! email: marketing@boevan.cn, WhatsApp/WeChat:  +8618717936608.

Boevan – providing professional flexible bag packaging solutions for various industries! Welcome to inquire!