Design and Development of Cost Effective Automatic Machine for Powder Packaging

Abstract

The packaging industry has advanced leaps and bounds over the few years. The pouch packaging machines also known as Form Fill and Seal Machines (FFS Machines) are available over a wide capacity range. A low cost automated packing machine can be used by small enterprises which would help reduce their cost of plant. This low cost automated machine uses simple pneumatic, mechanical and electric systems. In this paper we have presented one such low cost pouch filling machine. An additional weighing and pouring mechanism has been added to increase the accuracy of the system. The process flow has been described in detail. Various processes involved in the pouch packaging are neatly aligned and properly timed to get optimum production rate. A mechatronics system, developed for this machine, which takes feedback from sensors and accordingly controls the manipulators has been introduced in this paper. A microcontroller system is used for this particular machine. A detailed cost comparison between a conventional machine and the one developed by us has been presented. Low-cost VFFS machine using microcontroller (₹25,000) compared to PLC-based (₹4,50,000). Load cell weighing mechanism ensures accurate filling. Pneumatic cylinders control flap, bowl rotation, and sealing. Due to a simple design and the use of low cost reliable components, the machine is developed in lesser cost as compared to other conventional machines. Hence, the Low cost automated Pouch Packing Machine is successfully developed which can benefit small Industries or enterprises.