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Packaging in single Service Pouches

The sequence of operations when packaging into single-service pouches includes forming the container, filling and sealing, storage of the packaged product and dispatch to wholesale and retail outlets. The parts of the packaging machine are enclosed in a stainless steel (SS) cabinet. All parts are made of SS or treated aluminium protected by a coat of weatherproof paint.

Plastic sachets are pillow-shaped and made of low-density polyethylene film (LDPE).The packaging material may come in a roll of single or double film or as a flat tube.The material should be coloured to reduce light transmission. Heat-sealable film rolls are mounted inside the compartment at the rear bottom. The film is sterilized by exposing to ultra violet rays just before use. The film is shaped and heat-sealed into a tube by a vertical electrode. The flat tube type comes pre-shaped as a tube and so there will be no longitudinal seam.

After vertical sealing, the film is then moved downwards by a set of rubber rollers.It then comes to contact with the horizontal electrode. A simultaneous seal is made at the bottom of each packet and across the top of the preceding packet. The transverse seals are thus made above milk level. This also separates one pouch from the other. Injection of milk into the pouch takes place between the strokes of the horizontal electrode. The milk is kept in a small balance tank above the packaging machine, where the level is kept constant by means of a float. A timer-controlled pneumatically operated valve is used to dispense constant quantities of milk. The heat generated by both the sealing valves is removed by circulating soft water.After the packaging operation, the machine should be washed and cleaned. A general set of instructions for washing is given below.
  •  Bring the machine to manual operation.
  •  Switch off the horizontal seal and liquid injection systems.
  •  Empty the product in the balance tank into a can.
  •  Flush the balance tank with water and drain.
  •  Clean by circulating 1% caustic soda at 80° C.
  •  Drain alkali and flush with sufficient quantity of water.
  •  Cool machine and switch off.

The following is the daily maintenance schedule of a pouch-filling machine.
  •  Clean parts of the machine with a soft brush and warm liquid soap solution.
  •  Wash with clean water.
  •  Dry with air blower.
  •  Lubricate parts that need it.
  •  Check horizontal and vertical electrodes for deposition of milk solids. Do not use sharp materials for removing these.
  •  Elements should be replaced in case of burns or physical damages.

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