Many companies engaged in food processing and manufacturing have experienced an increase in production expenses. As a cost-effective alternative to packaging and preserving materials and other supplies, some have considered using canning equipment. But to gain more profit out if this endeavour, you need to invest only in the latest and best technology. However, it takes considerable planning and know-how to ensure that implementing new technology does not adversely impact the company's bottom line. Here are the top things you need to know before using new canning equipment.

Be familiar with the ‘double seam’ concept

Those who are new to using a can seamer assume that that sealing a can merely involves crimping the lid onto the body. On the other hand, modern can packaging machines are designed to seal packages by using minimal raw materials while still ensuring durability. In order to achieve the double seam, the machine creates a hermetic seam by rolling the can flange and completes the seam during a second rolling.

Identify seam specifications

Every manufacturer that packages products using cans provides specifications for the packaging body and lid. These specifications pertain to the measurements of each part of the can. In determining these measurements, you need to ensure that each measurement is within the range that allows for hermetically sealing the seam.

What are can seamer adjustments?

A can sealer or seamer, like any piece of equipment, requires regular maintenance and adjustment. There is no specific time frame when to conduct these adjustments. But, each component must be adequately lubricated and cleaned. Cleaning and oiling the machine helps ensure that it performs at maximum capacity before each scheduled maintenance or adjustment.

Detecting seam deformities

Before production begins, you need to test the sealer using an empty can. After seaming the can, measure the packaging to ensure that specifications are met. The measurement should conform to the established quality standard, the expected volume completed per shift, as well as if you plan to change packaging size within the shift. If you notice any defects on the test packaging, make sure to conduct necessary adjustments before production begins.

Not every can is the same

Manufacturers make different types of cans, even if they are of the same size. Each can and lid vary in seam specifications, which could prove challenging if it does not meet the same specifications as your sealing machine. Before sourcing packaging materials from a manufacturer, make sure to ask for specifications first and ensure that your company specifications are met.

Know the ins and outs of the packaging process

Before implementing a new packaging technology, you need to take some time to learn the process by heart. You need to train employees, make test batches, and ensure that your company has a team of experts who know how to operate, maintain, and fix these machines. There are many resources available online to help businesses successfully shift to canning products. Apart from these resources, you can also hire consultants and experts to guarantee that you can address any issues and deficiencies before you start packaging with cans.