Get the Most Out of Your Diaphragm Sealing Machine
Diaphragm sealing machines are used for packaging juices, oils, and other liquids. They achieve this by applying a pressure sensitive tape or film to the outside of a container and then sealing it by applying pressure with a diaphragm. This is usually done by screwing the bottom of the container onto the top of the machine and clamping it shut with a vice or clamping mechanism. To get the most out of your diaphragm sealing machine, follow these tips:
Make sure your machine is clean and dry before sealing
Not cleaning your machine regularly can lead to a slight increase in pressure required to seal, which will lead to a less than perfect seal. It can also lead to increased wear and tear, which will require more maintenance and cleaning. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure your machine is dry before sealing any liquids. If there is moisture on the diaphragm or sealing surface, the liquid may be absorbed, which can affect the shelf life of the finished product.
Use the right tape
There are dozens of types of sealing tapes available for diaphragm machines. Choosing the wrong tape can affect your seal quality. For example, standard polyethylene films are suitable for all types of liquids, but they are less durable than high-density polyethylene films. Using a high-density polyethylene film on a highly viscous liquid can be very challenging and may not provide the best seal if a standard polyethylene film would have been sufficient.
Test to make sure your seal is perfect
When you first set up your machine, you should test and make sure you have the perfect seal before you start filling containers. Once you start sealing containers, you risk accidentally breaking the seals if you are not happy with the quality and want to stop.
Don’t seal too fast
Sealing too quickly can cause the film to stretch and lead to an imperfect seal. This can result in leaking containers or reduced shelf life for the finished product. It is recommended to seal at around two to three inches per second.
Try using a little less pressure next time
If you notice that the seal is not perfect, try using a little less pressure next time around. This will help you troubleshoot the problem without sacrificing quality.
Conclusion
While diaphragm sealing machines are incredibly useful, they can be difficult to master. Once you get the hang of it, however, you’ll be able to seal all sorts of containers quickly and efficiently. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to diaphragm sealing success.
