July 18, 2023
The packaging industry has evolved and undergone significant advancements throughout the years. It transformed the way products are packaged and delivered to consumers. One of its advancements is the introduction of the stick pack machine.
Manufacturers have adapted to the rapid pace of technological innovations and the market's ever-changing needs. They took measures to enhance packaging sustainability, efficiency, and convenience.
As such, various automated packaging systems have been available on the market. They accommodate bagged products in all sizes, shapes, consistencies, and viscosities. It can be solids, semi-solids, gels, liquids, creams, and powders.
Different factors come into play when deciding if a particular piece of equipment will produce the best possible outcome for your business. It includes the type of product your manufacture, regulations, and the market you service.
Choosing which equipment works best for your company can be a little overwhelming, depending on your requirements and preferences. This article will discuss one such innovation — stick pack machines. We will explore their functionality, advantages, and best uses in various industries.
Various packaging machineries, like pouch bagging and shrink-wrapping machines, are available. However, a stick pack equipment can produce tube-like packages ideal for single-dose products like sugar, honey, coffee, and medicine.
These packs are slim, elongated pouches usually sealed on both ends and open along the top for mess-free product dispensing. With a specialized machine, it can automate the process of forming, filling, and sealing these stick packets.
It also provides several advantages to consumers for their convenience, portability, and ease of use. In fact, pharmaceutical companies prefer stick packs as they can accurately measure, enclose, and seal medicines in plastic or laminated paper materials.
This type of machinery usually consists of several key components. It includes a film unwinding system that feeds a roll of packaging film into the machine. It automatically forms the film into individual stick-type tubes and fills each pouch with the desired product quantity. The equipment then seals each tube to secure its contents.
In addition, stick pack machines reduce production costs and time by automating the packing process. The product’s slim design also makes it ideal for transport and handling during shipping.
This product primarily has two types of packaging machinery — multi lane and single lane stick pack machines.
Single-lane machines produce one pack of sticks at a time. They are suitable for small or medium production volumes and lower output requirements. This equipment provides flexibility in various aspects, including pack shapes, sizes, and filling options. Most importantly, their compact size is perfect for companies with limited production space.
On the other hand, multi-lane machines can produce multiple stick packs at a time. It has several lanes ranging from 2 to 20 or even more, depending on its configuration.
Multi-lane machines have high-speed manufacturing capabilities and are suitable for large-scale production and high-volume requirements. These filling equipment maximize productivity and efficiently handle a wide range of packaging materials and sizes.
This machine is helpful in various industries for its convenience and versatility. The most common applications and best uses for this machinery include the food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and personal care industries.
For instance, the food and beverage industry uses this packaging for single-serve products. Some manufacturers use a machine for coffee or tea packets to introduce portion control and convenience to their customers.
Likewise, condiments and flavorings can be contained in this packaging for commercial use. Usually, food products consumed in small quantities, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, and hot sauce, are suitable for this packaging.
Manufacturers use a stick pack packaging machine in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries to provide sanitary and precise packaging solutions. For example, brands use these mini packs to enclose single-dose medications and over-the-counter medicinal powders. This process prevents product contamination and consumers from overmedication.
It also provides a hygienic and convenient way to package single-use medication like oral solids and powders. In addition, manufacturers also use this packaging for dietary supplements, probiotics, and vitamins.
The personal care and cosmetics industries also use a stick pack machine for portable and convenient packaging. For instance, manufacturers use single-use packs for creams, serums, and lotions.
They also use this packaging to offer mess-free and efficient solutions for specialized liquid formulas and facial masks. In addition, brands also use it for hair care products, such as hair serums, treatments, and conditioners.
In fact, aside from these industries, manufacturers utilize stick pack packaging machines for household and industrial products as well. For example, brands apportion laundry pods, detergent powders, and concentrated cleaning agents using this specialized machinery for efficiency.
It is essential for manufacturers to ensure these products, which contain potent chemicals, are packaged in exact measurements to mitigate adverse effects and reactions. Similarly, they also use this process to offer consistency and enhanced precision.
Various industries have converted to stick pack machines for their economic advantages. Different brands gearing towards sustainability and eco-friendly solutions may opt for packaging with less paper and plastic for waste reduction.
Similarly, having the option to automate the packaging process increases productivity without compromising the quality of your products. It streamlines workflow while reducing the likelihood of operational error. These advantages can transform your production and reduce unnecessary labor and associated costs.
Manufacturers may have to shell out a hefty investment cost for an automated multi lane stick pack machine. Still, it ultimately weighs out the potential return on investment. Similarly, its flexibility to accommodate various products and packaging materials can make them versatile and adapt to the growing needs of a business.
At Plan IT Packaging Systems, we prioritize our client’s needs without compromising quality and efficiency. We are ready to help improve your business output, reduce costs, and deliver appealing products to an ever-changing market.
The stick pack machine offers versatility in packaging options. They have a space-saving design, are cost-effective, and improve product preservation. However, we know that each business has its requirements and preferences regarding packaging solutions.
If you wish to explore your business’s full potential, you can contact us for a free consultation.