Carton folding machine

Types of carton folding machines

A carton folding machine, also known as a box folding machine, is a device designed to fold cartons or boxes, mainly used in packaging industries.

According to working methods, carton folding machines can be divided into automatic machine and semi-automatic machine:

• Automatic carton folding machine: An automatic carton folding machine folds boxes at high speeds and volumes. It utilizes the automatic feeding system, which ensures continuous feeding of cartons into the machine without manual intervention. This feature combined with other elements raises productivity, making it an essential piece of equipment in high-production facilities where speed and efficiency are priorities.
• Semi-automatic carton folding machine: In contrast, semi-automatic machines require some manual assistance. While they may process faster than manual folding, they operate at a slower pace than automatic machines. Semi-automatic carton folding machines are valuable for companies with moderate production volumes that need versatility in box types.

According to features, there are many types of carton folding machines:

• Carton Taping Machine: The Carton Taping Machine includes a Carton Sealing Machine. The folding involves securing the box with tape after it's folded. These machines are generally power by AC, and their speed can reach 30-50 m/min.
• Manuel Carton Folding Machine: Manual carton folding machines require operators to fold the cartons manually but mechanically. They are suitable for small applications.
• Strapping Machine: Strapping machines are machines that strap the folded cartons to enhance stability. The strapping process can be done automatically or semi-automatically.
• Carton Erecting and Sealing Machine: As its name indicates, the machine erects the carton and seals it through taps or strapping. These types of machines are great for warehouses and distribution centers.
• Integrated Packaging Line: An integrated packaging line is a sophisticated, large, and advanced system that combines multiple packaging processes into a single automated line, efficiently handling everything from folding cartons and filling products to sealing and labeling packages.
• Flexible Carton Folding Machines: Flexible carton folding machines can handle a range of carton types and sizes.
• High-speed carton folding machines: High-speed carton folding machines are designed to provide high-speed production capabilities. Their folding speed can exceed 100/min, which caters to demand for high-speed and high-efficient production environments.

Specification and maintenance

Various carton folding machines are available in the market with different specifications. The following table summarizes some of the common types and their corresponding specifications.

• Automatic folder/gluer machine

  Has a production speed of at least 120 m/min. Power supply: 220V/380V, 50/60Hz. Total installed power: approximately 15kW. Stacked feeding capacity: Up to 3000mm. Weight: around 2000kg.

• Semi-automatic folder gluer machine

  Has a production speed of at least 90 m/min. Power supply: 220V, 50/60Hz. Total installed power: approximately 10kW. Stacked feeding capacity: Up to 2500mm. Weight: around 1200kg.

• Manually operated folder gluer machine

  Has a production speed of at least 30 m/min. Powered by manual crank or lever. Stacked feeding capacity: Up to 2000mm. Weight: around 800kg.

• Flap folding & glue machine

  Production speed: 150 to 2000 boxes per hour depending on carton size and operator skill. Power supply: 220V. Total installed power: approximately 3kW to 5kW. Feeding capacity: Up to 2000mm. Weight: around 800kg to 1500kg.

• Folder gluer with vacuum feed

  Vacuum feed speed: 100 to 150 carton per minute (initial speed). Production speed after setting up: 300 to 500 carton per minute. Power supply: 220V, 50/60Hz. Feeding capacity: Up to 3000mm. Total installed power: approximately 15kW to 25kW. Weight: around 1600kg to 3000kg.

Maintenance

Like any machine, taking good care of the folder glue machine can enhance its performance and prolong its lifespan. Here are some tips on how to maintain the machine:

• Clean the machine regularly. Remove any glue or carton debris. When cleaning, use mild detergent and a soft cloth. Do not use abrasive substances as they can damage the machine's surface.
• Lubricate moving parts of the machine moderately. Lubrication reduces friction and prevents unnecessary wear and tear to prolong the machine components' lifespans.
• Always use the glue type recommended by the machine's manufacturer. If not carelessly, the machine can develop mechanical problems that can be very costly to fix.
• Training the operator on how to take proper care of the carton folding machine will ensure it is used and maintained correctly.

Scenarios of carton folding machines

• High-volume packaging industry:

  The food packaging industry frequently uses carton folding machines. This includes the dairy, bakery, and convenience food sectors. The machines create secure cartons for other packaged goods. Cartons can contain different types of food products such as frozen ones, animals' food, and more. Using a carton folding machine saves time as opposed to folding each carton manually. Employees can focus their attention on other important tasks.

• Cosmetics and pharmaceuticals:

  The carton folding machine plays a key role in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. It helps with carton creation, blank suction, pre-folding, and gluing. The machine can handle various sheets to form cartons for most products in these industries. This includes handling sheets for facewash, shampoo, tablets, and many other products. Cartons created by the machine are also aesthetically pleasing. They might have to be this way depending on the brand's strategy for winning over buyers. Overall, the machine aids in branding, protecting, and informing products.

• ECOMMERCE RETURNS:

  A carton folding machine can create return cartons for e-commerce businesses. These machines can generate returns at a high rate to help companies save money and labor costs.

• CARTON BOX SIZES:

  Machines exist to fold and glue cartons of different dimensions. They can fold extra-large cartons usually used to export goods or very small cartons that fit inside other containers. Depending on a company's needs, investing in a carton folding machine that creates multiple sizes is possible.

• VELOCITY:

  Depending on operational demands, machines can fold and glue 500 to 5,000 cartons per hour. Speedier machines typically have higher costs, but they might be a good investment in environments where high-volume carton creating is required.

How to choose a carton folding machine

When it comes to buying carton machines, there are several things buyers should consider to ensure they end up purchasing a machine that will meet and satisfy their needs. One thing buyers should consider is the types of cartons the machine can fold. Because there are different types of carton folding machines, each is designed to fold specific kinds of cartons. Therefore, buyers' preferences for a specific type of machine will largely depend on the kind of carton they intend to work with.

Another thing buyers should consider when purchasing a carton folding machine is the level of automation they require. As mentioned earlier, carton folding machines range from manual to fully automatic. This means that depending on their production needs, buyers may want to consider a machine with a specific automation level.

It is also important for buyers to consider a machine's size and capacity. This means they have to choose a machine that folds cartons of a specific size to their exact specifications. More importantly, they have to choose a machine with capacities suitable to meet their production demand. In this case, buyers may want to consider the speed and numbers of folds per minute the machine actually executes. Generally, machines with higher speed and folding capacity are preferable.

Moreover, the compatibility of the carton folding machine with other packaging equipment is another thing buyers need to consider. More importantly, buyers may want to choose machines that can conveniently be integrated with their existing production lines. For seamless operation, this will ensure smooth operation and efficient workflow.

Lastly, buyers may want to consider machines that are easy to operate. More importantly, they should look for machines with intuitive controls and clear instructions. Inquire about training and technical support from the manufacturer or supplier to ensure employees receive the necessary guidance during the machine setup and operation.

Folding Carton Machine Q&A

Q1: How does a carton folding machine work?

A1: The carton folding machine works by first picking the cartons through suction cups. It then folds the carton's flaps with the help of folding rails. After this, the machine seals the carton using adhesive or tape, and finally, it delivers the finished product to the desired location.

Q2: What is the difference between carton sealing and folding?

A2: Carton folding implies the process of folding a carton to create a box or a container. This is usually done for packaging purposes and involves folding the carton's flaps and sealing them. On the other hand, carton sealing implies the process of sealing a folded carton. It can be sealed using adhesive, tape, or other methods. Sealing is done to ensure that the contents of the carton do not get damaged or come out.

Q3: What is the difference between a carton fold and a tear?

A3: A carton fold refers to a pre-defined crease on the carton that allows controlled folding. On the contrary, a carton tear implies damaging the carton in an unfixed manner. Tears can result in irregular openings and may damage the packaged content as well as the carton itself.

Q4: What is the difference between a carton and a case in machine use?

A4: When talking about machine use, a carton is a box made from thick paper or lightweight material often used for product packaging. A case, on the other hand, is a rigid container used for protection and transport, often made from plastic or real metal material.