Like other complex machines, vacuum sealers require preventive maintenance to keep them running smoothly and maximise their lifespan. If you neglect it, all kinds of problems can eventually catch up with you, from reduced performance to full-blown machine failure. A vacuum packing machine service is important if you work with these machines in any capacity.
Vacuum sealers are hard-working pieces of machinery, operating for many hours a day in demanding environments such as factories, restaurants, and commercial kitchens. From food to cosmetics, currency to electronics, the benefits of vacuum-sealing products are well known. It saves time, money and waste, all the while presenting your goods in a neat and appealing little package.
The food industry is one of vacuum packaging’s biggest beneficiaries. Protecting food and other goods with an airtight seal extends their shelf life, maintains their flavour, prevents freezer burn and keeps dirt, dust and decay at bay. Vacuum sealing is a vital component of sous vide cooking, a popular style among some of the world’s leading chefs that uses a temperature-controlled water bath.
Vacuum packaging is a cost-effective way to keep your products in the best possible condition for longer, so it’s worth servicing your machine regularly. Because you’re already busy running your business, this is an area where a professional vacuum machine supplier can help.
Based in Brisbane, VACPAC is known for our high-quality equipment and prompt, efficient servicing. We cover the three most requested areas of vacuum machine servicing: preventative maintenance, responsive services and emergency breakdowns.
If you’re wondering what the signs are that you’re overdue for a vacuum packing machine service, or whether you need to service a vacuum chamber machine differently from an external suction machine. Then this is for you. Here is the VACPAC guide to the topic, along with the biggest signs your machine is due for servicing.
The Importance of Vacuum Packaging Machine Servicing
Vacuum packing machine servicing is essential for keeping your sealer running smoothly and preventing breakdowns that may hurt your productivity, revenue, and reputation. Keeping any complex machine running well always requires maintenance. When it comes to vacuum machine servicing, some necessary steps include regular inspections, replacing filters and seals, lubricating balls and bearings, and checking the vacuum line for leaks.
Regular servicing makes the machine more energy-efficient and improves its performance consistency. It allows you to pick up and address small issues early on before they turn into expensive repairs that can damage your bottom line. In an industry like food packaging, people expect consistency, and good machine servicing certainly helps you deliver that again and again. Regular maintenance also helps with record-keeping and with ensuring you’ve been meeting safety standards.
Signs Your Vacuum Sealing Machine Needs Servicing
There are some signs of trouble that are so minor you won’t notice them at first, while others can stop your work in its tracks: your bag won’t seal properly, or your machine struggles along making alarming noises. Here are some obvious and not-so-obvious indicators that it’s time to book your vacuum packaging machine in for a service:
Strange noises
Don’t ignore new or unexpected noises, as they can indicate a range of internal problems, such as worn bearings, motor issues, or leaks in the system. Some of the most common sounds of trouble include grinding or whirring noises, strained noises during sealing, whistling or clicking.
Visible damage
Sometimes, clear physical damage lets you know that parts are wearing out and need servicing or replacing. Keep an eye out for frayed or stretched chains and belts, worn-out Teflon heat strips and damaged seals and gaskets. Damage to components can escalate if you don’t address it, so it’s important to get your machine looked at as soon as possible.
Performance issues
Has the speed or capacity of your vacuum packaging machine decreased? Sometimes machines can take longer than usual to remove the air from inside the bag, or suddenly fail to deliver the same suction power they used to. Packages might come out with air still inside, which is unsafe and can make you look unprofessional. As well as being alarming, these signs are clear indicators that your machine is overdue for a service.
Operational failure
Sometimes your machine can shut down entirely, often throwing the whole environment of your workplace into chaos. Error messages and unexpected shutdowns require your immediate attention. The goal of preventive maintenance is to address issues when they are easier to fix, long before shutdown.
Vacuum Sealing Machine Servicing and Maintenance Schedule
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to servicing your vacuum sealer machine. While the industry standard is to service your vacuum packaging machine every 3 to 6 months, your own schedule will depend on the type of machine you have, the environment you use it in, and how often you use it.
Chamber and external vacuum packaging machines share many similarities in servicing, but also have significant differences. Servicing a vacuum chamber machine requires filter cleaning, gasket replacement, and periodic pump and oil changes. External vacuum sealers need to have their foam seals cleaned and occasionally replaced, while both need to be regularly wiped down with a damp cloth or similar.
Creating your own vacuum packing machine service schedule involves the following steps:
- Identify the type of machine you have, and consult the manufacturer’s servicing schedule for recommended intervals and parts.
- Make a list of the tasks that need to be carried out weekly, monthly and annually, e.g. cleaning the chamber, inspecting the belts and chains, lubrication, calibration, filter changes, etc. Making a thorough checklist can ensure you don’t miss anything important.
- Assign responsibilities within your team and provide training so that there’s always a qualified person available to carry out the necessary procedures.
- Document all maintenance measures and their dates, along with any problems you uncover during the process. Keeping records will make future servicing easier, along with maintenance in general.
When in doubt, don’t hesitate to call VACPAC for help with all your vacuum packaging machine servicing needs.
Top-Quality Vacuum Packaging Machine Servicing at VACPAC
If you want true reassurance and peace of mind that your vacuum packaging machine has been well-serviced, VACPAC has you covered. A vacuum packaging machine supplier offering purpose-built solutions, VACPAC ensures a dedicated vacuum packaging machine service with a commitment to leading-edge technologies and continuous improvement.
VACPAC covers a large selection of vacuum packing machine services in the three main areas of preventative, maintenance and emergency breakdowns. We can conduct a preventative maintenance agreement (PMA) on a regular, ongoing basis to increase operating time, optimise output and prevent faults in advance. Each PMA is tailored to the needs of our clients and supported by discounted rates and guarantees.
We provide fast on-site help in the case of an emergency breakdown. We can quickly find the fault, fix the situation and suggest areas for improvement. We can also provide loan equipment, staff training, rebuilds and overhauls.
To find out more, get in touch with the VACPAC team on 07 3806 5972 or contact us online for a tailored solution. You can also visit our showroom at Unit 3, 14-16 Cairns Street, Loganholme, QLD.