Differences Between Overhead And Underneath Film Feed in Pillow Packaging Machines

Differences Between Overhead and Underneath Film Feed in Pillow Packaging Machines and Selection Guide

1. Core Differences

2. Key Selection Factors

(1) Product Characteristics

• Choose Overhead Feed When:

• Lightweight products (≤500g) and flat shapes (e.g. snack bags, medicine blisters)

• Products prone to crushing (gravity-assisted film placement reduces impact)

• Choose Underneath Feed When:

• Heavy products (≥1kg) or those needing bottom support (e.g. glass bottles)

• Products sensitive to surface dust (bottom feed reduces contamination)

(2) Production Environment

• Overhead Feed:

• Requires adequate ceiling height, works with downward-sloping conveyors

• Needs anti-static measures (top unwinding generates static attracting dust)

• Underneath Feed:

• Better for compact spaces but requires dust shields for floor-level film

(3) Film Material

• Overhead Feed:

• Better for thin films (20-40μm POF) relying on gravity assistance

• Underneath Feed:

• Handles thicker films (50-80μm PE) requiring higher tensile strength

3. Typical Applications

• Overhead Feed Examples:

• Biscuit production lines (lightweight + high speed)

• Pharmaceutical blister packaging

• Highly automated factories (with robotic loading)

• Underneath Feed Examples:

• Multi-pack bottled beverages

• Ceramic gift sets (prevent toppling)

• Humid environments (reduces moisture contact)

4. Maintenance & Cost

• Overhead Feed:

• Maintenance points at height require elevated access

• Typically 5-10% lower equipment cost (simpler structure)

• Underneath Feed:

• Bottom rollers accumulate dust needing daily cleaning

• Slightly higher energy consumption (8-15%) due to heavy-duty design

5. Selection Recommendations

1. Test Packaging:

• For fragile items (e.g. egg rolls), test breakage rates with overhead feed

• For bottled products, test stability with underneath feed

2. Consult Suppliers:

• Provide product dimensions/weight and output requirements for customized solutions

3. Hybrid Solutions:

• For diverse products, consider machines with convertible feed direction (available in premium models)

Conclusion:

• Choose Overhead Feed → Prioritize lightweight + high speed + automation

• Choose Underneath Feed → Prioritize heavy products + anti-toppling + dust prevention

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