In the wide world of vertical form-fill-seal and horizontal form-fill-seal (VFFS and HFFS) packaging applications, you generally have a choice between two types of seals; Lap Seal or Fin Seal. As for which type of seal is right for your products, that is case-sensitive for your unique applications. SunDance can help you with creating custom flexible packaging.
This article will explore the differences between lap seal and fin seal applications for flexible films while also providing information about the form-fill-seal machinery required to produce this type of packaging.
Lap Seal vs. Fin Seal
A Lap Seal (also known as "overlap seam") is when the outside of the film is sealed together with the inside of the film. The type of seal you should use is determined by the application you use for your flexible packaging operations. A Fin Seal (also known as a "fold-over seam") is when both inside edges of the film are sealed together, and the fin is folded over to complete the seal.
Flexible films can be made as ready-to-seal packaging as a roll of roll stock. The flexible films can be applied via film-on-reel applications, which may be custom-made to fit different packaging sizes. This packaging application is implemented via form-fill-seal machinery and can be used with flexible films.
Form-Fill-Seal Machinery
Form-fill-seal machines do exactly what the name suggests. They form, fill, and seal the materials being used. Whether vertical or horizontal, the machine needs to take a roll of flexible film (also known as "roll stock") and form it into something. Next, the product is dispensed in a partially sealed package, and the final side is sealed. The film can be filled with liquids, powders, or a host of other dry and wet products.
Depending on the type of product you are packaging, the packaging may be filled horizontally or vertically based on the chosen application. Vertical is for your powders, liquids, and smaller products. Horizontal is used for consumer goods such as protein bars and other products that will not flow easily into a formed flexible package.
The last step in the form-fill-seal process usually results in implementing three or four-sided seals. The final seal is generally completed via heat sealing. Thermo-based form-fill-seal machinery (commonly used in pharmaceutical and bioscience applications) has been shown to be useful in situations requiring product loading, detection of problematic seals, and the removal of contaminated materials.
Flexible Films
Flexible films are the type of materials used on form-fill-seal machinery. Commonly found on store shelves at your local supermarkets, gas-station food marts, and other food retailers worldwide, flexible films are considered a consumer favorite. They make it convenient for consumers to take things on the go while minimizing product waste.
These easy-to-open films are used for a plethora of product packaging applications, including chips, nuts, cookies, crackers, as well as industrial liquids and powders. In an on-the-go world, on-the-go packaging is paramount.
Flexible films have a significantly lower carbon footprint than most other popular packaging supplies, particularly rigid packaging materials. In addition to their lower environmental impact, flexible films are proven to increase sales. For example, after implementing a high-performance flexible film laminate for their award-winning Sour Cream squeezable pouch, Daisy brand saw a 25.4% increase in sales for that product line.
Where to Purchase Flexible Packaging Supplies
If you are interested in packaging your products with earth-friendly flexible packaging supplies such as flexible films, reach out to one of our in-house packaging experts! They will be able to consult with you and advise on the appropriate packaging applications that would be the best fit for your products.
With flexible packaging supplies from Sundance, you can satisfy your customer's desire for sustainable packaging while simultaneously providing eye-catching packaging solutions that will separate your business from your competition. We are your one-stop shop for professional branding and marketing capabilities, as well as your go-to vendor for the absolute best flexible packaging materials currently available on the market. SunDance can help you design and develop packaging that will shine!
