8 replies to this topic

[Jess1071988]

Hello everyone!

 

I work at a candy packaging company, and we have been having issues with are bags breaking. We think this is happening after the bags are leaving the facility, but can't pinpoint if it is a transportation issue, machine issue (that we are not realizing) or if has anything to do with temperatures. Anyone else having broken bag issues?

[Scampi]

what type of plastic are the bags?

[Jess1071988]

Poly LLPE & LDPE 

[Scotty_SQF]

Where are the bags breaking at?  That should help pinpoint a possible issue.  Do you have sample of the broken bags, what is your observation of those samples?

[Jess1071988]

It is breaking towards the top right under the seal could be stray pieces of candy breaking the seal, too much air possibly, or maybe the engine temp is to hot or cold. I'm going to do some investigating, but wasn't sure if anyone has had a similar situation or has any advice?

[Scampi]

That sounds to me like a thermal crack in the plastic

 

If there is a huge discrepancy between the sealing temp and the ambient and/or storage air temp, you may be inadvertently creating a very brittle spot in the plastic

 

I would lower the temp on the sealing bar to as low as possible without losing the seal and monitor

 

If it is always in the same location, there may be something causing a small tear in the bag you cannot see that is opening further with the sharp edges some candies have

 

The next question to ask is the age of the stock-----------both plastic types get brittle with age (could be your vendor "found" some new old stock????)

[Scotty_SQF]

Agree with Scampi above.  As I say sometimes to colleagues and customers, film isn't smart enough to cause an issue around the same exact spot every time.  Start with the equipment and work your way back from there.

 

Clean the seal bars and as Scampi said above lower the seal temp and start from there.  Along with checking your vendor on the age of the stock, how are you storing the film?  Many people think you can store film in a warehouse that experiences huge temperatures swings and such, but you cannot.  That will affect its properties and shelf life.  Make sure you are following the vendor's storage recommendations as well.

[LeoraDooley]

I have a problem, can i ask a question? 

Edited by LeoraDooley, 22 September 2023 - 11:30 AM.

[Scampi]

I have a problem, can i ask a question? 

 

That's what we're here for!  Ask away