Blister packaging lines

Types of Blister Packaging Lines

Blister packaging lines are often used to describe the series of steps needed to create blister packaging for various products. It is commonly used for products in the pharmaceutical, consumer goods, and electronics industries. The steps may vary according to the items to be packaged but usually include the formation of blisters in a specific shape, filling the blister with the item, and sealing the blister pack with a backing material.

Generally, the blister packaging line consists of the following parts:

• Feeding Unit: This is where products are oriented and presented to the blister packaging machine. It may include product orientation systems, lanes/crossovers, and product vibration.
• Blister Forming/Manufacturing Unit: The area involves forming blisters from a package material like PVC, PVDC, or PETG. Users may find different configurations and technologies for this area of the blister packaging line.
• Product Filler: This part of the blister packaging line is used to insert products within the formed blister cavities. Specialized machines insert, place, and seat products into formed blisters.
• Sealing Unit: Once the products are in the blister cavities, the blister is sealed to secure the product within. This is done by applying heat and pressure to seal the blister to a backing material, usually made of paperboard, lidding, or aluminum foil.
• Cutting Unit: In this part of the line, the sealed blisters are cut into individual packs or cards according to the desired configuration. This usually involves die-cutting, which is used to cut the sealed blisters and remove any excess packaging material.
• Collection Unit: In this part of the line, the individual blisters or cards are collected, counted, and stacked, typically according to a specific number required for retail or inventory purposes.

It's important to note that while the above parts describe a typical blister packaging line, actual lines may vary depending on the specific type or use of the blister packaging.

Specifications and maintenance of blister packaging lines

Blister packaging lines are made with advanced technology and engineering to give them solid, long-lasting features. They mainly include the machine parts that do the work and the areas fitted with precision moulds to match the shape of the various products to be packed. The packaging machines will almost always include reliable electrical heating, vacuum, and cooling functions, along with control panels facilitating the line's function with minimal manpower. All these may come with customized specifications, such as size, weight, speed, and capacity, to fit the unique needs of different kinds of businesses. Please get in touch with us so we can provide you with more precise details about the specific configurations and available parts for our blister packaging lines.

These packaging lines need to be taken care of to keep their smooth working and make the packed products look even better. A regular maintenance schedule should always be followed so that all the parts of the blister packaging line, including electrical components and control panels, are safely and properly calibrated, cleaned, and serviced. By doing this, businesses can ensure that the quality of their products is maintained even as they are packed and that the life of the line is duly extended.

Applications of blister packaging lines

Blister packaging lines are valuable assets in different industries. Their ability to meet various needs has made them indispensable.

In the pharmaceutical industry, blister packaging lines are used to create different types of pill packages. Machines that use these lines can make sure each drug dosage gets the right packaging. Packaging is often done in units of doses or in organized weekly/months. This helps reduce mistakes when taking medications, especially for elderly patients. Blister packs protect drugs from spoiling quickly, and they also have child-resistant features. This is important for keeping children safe from potentially harmful medications.

In the food industry, blister packaging lines are used to package food items securely. Foods like fresh-made sandwiches, breakfast sandwiches, meats, fruits and vegetables are packaged using these lines. The blister packs preserve these perishable items more effectively than traditional packaging because they create an airtight seal around the product. Additionally, the shelf life of packaged goods is extended, reducing food waste.

In the electronics and automotive parts industries, blister packaging lines are used to provide tamper-proof packaging solutions for small electronic gadgets like connectors, boards, and keys, as well as delicate automotive components. These parts benefit from blister packs because they keep out dust, moisture, and other environmental factors that could potentially cause damage to the electronic integrity of the parts. Blister packs not only protect the integrity of the product inside, but also make it extremely difficult for people to open up the packaging and mess with the items inside.

In the retail industry, blister packaging lines are commonly used to create retail displays of small consumer goods. Tools, toys, stationery, hardware, and other small products are packaged using these lines. Blister packs make it easy for consumers to see what the product looks like before buying it. The items are also conveniently and neatly displayed together. Most of the time, these packs are attached to hang cards or pegged on store shelves.

How to Choose Blister Packaging Lines

Choose the proper blister packaging line for sale according to these key factors:

• Product Characteristics:

  Consider the features of the products to be packed, such as size, shape, weight, and fragility. Ensure the blister packaging machine can handle them. Choose one with suitable blisters for a good fit.

• Production Volume:

  The required production volume impacts the machine's size and speed. Higher volumes may need a faster, automated machine. Lower levels could use a smaller, manual model.

• Changeover and Flexibility:

  Consider how often the packaging needs to change. More adjustable machines allow quicker changeovers at the expense of added complexity.

• Space and Budget Constraints:

  Ensure the machine will fit in the available space and that its cost suits the packaging budget.

• Regulatory Requirements:

  Check whether certain products need special features like tamper-proofing or child-resistant packaging. Incorporate these, if essential, within the budget limitations.

• Maintenance and Support:

  Consider the support network for the selected machine brand. Select brands with good spare parts and repair service availability to ensure long-term operating support.

FAQ

Q1: What materials can blister packaging lines use?

A1: Blister packaging lines typically use materials like PVC, PVDC, P-coated, and high-impact polystyrene for the blisters, and materials such as aluminum foil or paper foils for the backing are cold.

Q2: What types of products are suitable for blister packaging?

A2: Blister packaging is most suited for individual items such as capsules and supplements, small medical devices, foreign products, and trying items in the consumer goods sector.

Q3: Are blister packaging machines eco-friendly?

A3: While traditional blister packaging contributes to plastic waste, some blister packaging machines can use eco-friendly materials, and efforts are ongoing in the industry to develop recyclable or biodegradable packaging solutions.

Q4: How do blister packing machines enhance product security?

A4: Blister packing machines improve product security by creating tamper-evident packaging wherein the integrity of the package is compromised if tampered with, and the product is visible through transparent blisters, allowing users to check for damage at a glance.