BLENDING and filling all substances have their challenges but while packing a particularly gloopy or smelly liquid can be tricky, it is generally working with powders and granules that is more difficult.
Powders and granules tend to be more variable. They can be fine but dense or coarse and rapid flowing. Some can cling to the container they were delivered in so persistently that it takes all manner of vibratory and other techniques to dislodge them so they can be repacked into the bag, bottle or bucket they are destined for. If they’ve clumped together we may need to sieve them or pass them through a kibbler to remove any lumps and achieve a more consistent texture.
Others hang on to air bulking themselves out. Here the problem is separating the air from the powder rather than helping it to flow. Patience is the key… waiting for the contents to settle before we can top up the container to the required amount as declared on the packaging, although vibration can sometimes help.
Sometimes the powder flows too well – more easily even than water and has also been known to leak out of small cracks that water wouldn’t! In this scenario, containment is vital, not only to prevent too much powder going into the container but to stop it escaping during the filling process between containers. There are all sorts of issues like ‘ratholing’ and ‘bridging’ that arise from the different powder characteristics and impact on the equipment required to convey or control the flow.
The powder maybe hazardous to the filling machine operator in which case effective Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential to prevent the particles from entering the operator’s lungs. It may also stick to the container causing issues with properly heat-sealing the sachets or pouches.
As you can see, powder filling can be the most challenging of all the packing tasks at least until we have got to grips with the best way to proceed for that particular product. Ideally it needs a trial quantity to gauge the properties of the powder and estimate with confidence the best filling speed. Sometimes as much as a tonne is required but usually 10kg will do.
As experienced contract manufacturers and packers, Grotech Production Limited has decades of expertise in working with powders and granules of all consistencies and characteristics. We are confident we can turn yours into a packaged product to be proud of. To find out more, ring us on 01405 761746 or contact us here.
