01
Application context
Well before a package is propped up on a shelf, snack makers must consider how to safely get their snacks to the variety of bag sizes now available.
Delicate snacks like pretzels typically travel at slower rates than vertical form/fill/seal (VFFS) machines and baggers to minimize impact. They can also install powered side guides, essentially a conveyor tilted on its side, that moves at the same rate as the product to reduce friction.
02
Design considerations
A controlled packaging gate can gently compact the charge of snacks as it comes off the scale to prep it for a bag.
Ms. Duncan said snack makers should match the bagging machine speed with the rates coming from the fryer and scale. Building in the opportunity to increase those speeds is also critical. If a product is bagged at 30 a minute now, plan on ramping up packaging as business grows.