Things to Consider Before Buying a Heat Sealer...

What do you need it for?

Heat sealers come in a large variety of shapes and sizes. Making sure that you purchase a sealer that will fit your needs is your most important concern. As with any equipment item some important points to consider:

• Know what's available: There are so many varieties of heat sealer available that there is almost certainly one that will meet your packaging needs. Research what's available, especially if you have an unusual package, pouch or bag. Choosing the correct machine initially could save you a lot of time and money later on.
• Packaging and production capacity: For low throughput an impulse type sealer may be ideal, however for high throughput a continuous type sealer is more likely to fit your need.
• Packaging Characteristics and Dimensions: Make sure that you sealer is capable of handling your package dimensions. Impulse sealers come in a variety of sizes however the sealing length is finite. Continuous sealers can make a seal as long as you require but the package must be moved through the belts and thus may not be appropriate for extra large or very heavy bags or pouches.
• Packaging Materials: Packaging materials have different characteristics. Make sure the sealer you are intending to purchase is capable of the sealing temperature that your material requires. If you are using a specialty material make sure that it can handle processing with a heat sealer. When in doubt ask your supplier if they can test seal the material for you.
• Sealing Characteristics: How wide does your seal need to be? Does it need to be airtight? Do you need heat applied to both sides of the seal? Make sure the sealer you are purchasing is capable of fulfilling your needs.
• Machine Cost, Maintenance and Spare Parts: There is a heat sealer for every budget. Typically continuous sealers are more expensive than impulse sealers. Hand sealers less expensive than foot sealers. Additionally remember that equipment wares out. Make sure that replacement belts, bars and other parts are available from the supplier.