Automatic vacuum packing machine

Types of automatic vacuum packing machines

An automatic vacuum packing machine is a device that is used to remove air from a package so as to improve the shelf life of perishable items. The presence of air breeds bacteria and other harmful organisms that decompose food faster, but with the air removed, the items can stay fresh for a longer time. There are several types of automatic vacuum packing machines available for both home and commercial use.

• Chamber vacuum sealers: In this machine, the entire bag and its content are placed inside a chamber. The chamber then pushes out air with a large piston or a built-in pump until it is time to seal the bag. Once the sealing is done, the chamber automatically returns to normal pressure, and the finished product is ready. This type of vacuum packing machine is suited for sealing large quantities of food at a time. One downside to this machine is that the sealing strips are often shallow and may not completely seal all the air in the bag after the chamber pressure returns to normal.
• Nozzle vacuum sealers: Unlike chamber sealers, nozzle sealers are designed with one or more nozzles that act as suction points to remove air from the bags' interior. This is more beneficial than chamber sealers because the bags do not have to fit into a chamber to work. Another advantage of nozzle sealers is that they can be used with any nozzle-compatible bag. Also, nozzle sealers can achieve high levels of vacuum since the nozzle continues to suck air even after the chamber pressure returns to normal. The downside is that with multiple uses of the nozzle vacuum sealer, the nozzle or suction hole may become clogged with liquids or food particles, making it less effective over time.
• Impulse vacuum sealers: The sealing mechanism of an impulse vacuum sealer works by heating up a metal wire. An impulse vacuum sealer does well to prevent air from entering and is very reliable at that. The machine automatically indicates when the sealing is done. There are two types of impulse vacuum sealers: single strip sealers and double strip sealers. An advantage of this type of sealer is that it is affordable, portable, ideal for sealing moist food, and easy to clean. They are also perfect for storing food in small to medium quantities.
• External suction sealers: An external suction vacuum sealer is configured to suck out air from the bag's exterior before it begins to seal. This has the advantage of making it possible to remove liquid from the bag before air extraction and sealing. An external suction vacuum sealer works well for solid foods, is wallet-friendly, and is easy to use and clean. On the flip side, these sealers are not very effective at preventing air from entering the bag after sealing.

Specifications & Maintenance

• Packaging Speed:

  Automatic vacuum packers have varied packaging speeds, usually ranging from 5 to 15 seconds per item. The speed depends on factors like the machine’s efficiency, the item’s size, and the vacuum level required. For optimal performance, operators should ensure that the packing area is organized to minimize preparation and/product time. They should also avoid over-vacSKU-ing to reduce packaging time.

• Cutter Length:

  This measures the length of the cutter used to create vacuum-seal bags. Most machines come with 25-35 cm cutter lengths, ideal for sealing smaller to medium-sized bags. Users can achieve custom bag sizes by re-sealing using the vacuum machine's cutter. For maintenance, they should wipe any debris off the cutter, ensuring it’s dry and clean before storing it.

• Vacuum Power:

  Automatic vacuum pack machines have different vacuum strengths indicated in watts. They range from 100-300 watts for handheld/portable models and up to 800 watts for larger, countertop machines. Higher wattage translates to stronger suction for more thorough packing. To maintain optimal vacuum strength, users should frequently check and replace any worn-out or damaged gaskets. They should also clean the vacuum port to eliminate clogs that hinder suction.

• Seal Width:

  The automatic vacuum machine sealing bar width usually ranges from 2 mm to 10 mm. Operating at the recommended temperature settings helps achieve broad, sturdy seals. For prolonged service, users should monitor sealing bars for any damage that could cause ineffective sealing. They should also adjust the sealing length for custom widths and lengths.

• Voltage:

  These machines operate on varying voltage systems, ranging from battery-powered units (12-24 volts) to AC-powered models (110-240 volts). Most household automatic vacuum machines use 110-120 volts, while commercial models utilize 220-240 volts. Users need to determine the suitable voltage for their space and purpose. They should ensure proper electric grounding and line isolation to prevent power fluctuations that cause damage.

Scenarios

Automatic vacuum packing machines are useful in various industries and food service sectors that are looking to reduce food waste and streamline their operations.

• Food Packaging and Preservation:

  Restaurants, cafes, and catering services can use an automatic vacuum packing machine for food to extend shelf life, maintain food quality and prevent freezer burn. By vacuum sealing perishable items like meats, cheeses, fruits, and vegetables, these establishments can reduce food waste and offer fresh products to their customers.

• Meal Prep and Portion Control:

  Food processing companies, delis, and meal prep services can utilize automatic vacuum packing machines for convenient packaging and portion control. By vacuum sealing pre-prepared meals, snacks, and ingredients in portion-sized packages, these businesses can enhance efficiency, streamline food production, and provide consistent offerings to their clients.

• Marinading and Infusion:

  Event venues, hotels, and banquet facilities can benefit from automatic vacuum packing machines by using them for marinading and infusion. Vacuum sealing allows for rapid marinating of meats, vegetables, and fries, saving time during food preparation and enhancing flavor profiles for dishes served at special events and gatherings.

• Product Packaging for Retail:

  Small-scale food producers, farms, and specialty food shops can employ automatic vacuum packing machines for product packaging. Vacuum sealing extends the shelf life of artisanal products, preserves, and homemade specialties, allowing these businesses to maintain product quality and provide an attractive packaging option for retail sales.

• Hunting and Fishing:

  Outdoor sporting goods stores and guided fishing or hunting services can use automatic vacuum packing machines for equipment preservation and wildlife storage. Vacuum sealing fishing tackle, hunting gear, or outdoor equipment protects them from moisture, dust, and damage, ensuring their longevity and functionality for outdoor enthusiasts.

How to choose automatic vacuum packing machines

• Consider the frequency and volume of packaging:

  In general, the mid-size automatic vacuum packing machine is ideal for commercial use, while larger models with more powerful motors and faster production speeds are better suited for industrial settings. Supermarket or food processing facilities would require an automatic vacuum packing machine with multiple pouch bearings for continuous operation. Conversely, smaller, more compact models may be better suited for catering businesses or kitchens where space is limited.

• Ease of use and operation:

  Automatic vacuum packing machines come with different ease-of-use features. LCD screens, pre-programmed settings, and one-touch sealing functions can make complex machines easier to use. Sometimes, training new employees can impact the overall cost of operating a commercial catering business.

• Durability and warranty:

  More expensive automatic vacuum packing machines may have more sensitive electronic parts and complex mechanisms that can break down. In contrast, simpler, more basic models have fewer things that can break. Catering businesses would be looking for more robust automatic vacuum packing machines with durable, easy-to-clean parts.

FAQ

Q1: How long do vacuum-packed foods last?

A1: Vacuum packing increases shelf life, but the lifespan varies by food type. In the fridge, vacuum-packed raw vegetables may last 2 to 3 weeks, cooked vegetables 1 to 2 weeks, hard cheese 3 to 6 months, meat 4 to 12 months, poultry 4 to 12 months, fish 6 to 12 months, cooked meat 4 to 8 months, grain products 6 to 12 months, junk food 1 to 6 months, and coffee 3 to 12 months. Foods kept in the freezer have a longer shelf life, even up to several years.

Q2: Can buyers put liquid items in vacuum packaging?

A2: When using an automatic vacuum packing machine, avoid vacuum-sealing liquids. They will bubble out during suction and could damage the device. Use the sealing lock instead to seal and preserve them. For vacuum-sealing soup or other liquids, freeze them first in a flat container. Then, once solidified, vacuum-seal them.

Q3: Can an automatic vacuum packing machine be used for humble storage?

A3: Grocery baggies and jars are great for pantry storage, but vacuum-sealing food is a game changer. Foods are vacuum-sealed, eliminating air and bacteria, and are safer and fresher. Spices, coffee, and dried herbs maintain potency when vacuum-sealed. Vacuum-sealing cheese prevents molding. Cooking in bulk is cost-effective; foods can be vacuum-sealed and frozen for humble storage.

Q4: Can an automatic vacuum packing machine be reused after being used to pack food?

A4: It is possible to reuse a vacuum bag. However, commercial-grade bags carry a greater risk of bacteria when used for raw meat or unpasteurized food. It's best to use the outside of any food bag and only on the inside.