In the agri-food sector, where the safety and quality of packaging are paramount, clipping has established itself as a reliable, fast and economical closure technique. This method, favoured by many manufacturers, offers an interesting alternative to traditional closing systems. Find out how this technology can transform your packaging line and make your products safer.
What is clipping?
Clipping is a closing technique that consists of affixing a metal, plastic or adhesive clip to the end of a bag to seal it. Simple in principle but sophisticated in its industrial application, clipping guarantees a secure closure, preserving the freshness and integrity of the packaged products.
This method is distinguished by its versatility, adapting to a wide variety of pouches of different sizes, thicknesses and materials. Whether the bags are made of plastic, paper, multi-layer complex or biodegradable materials, clipping offers a universal and reliable solution.
The strategic advantages of clipping for your production
The main advantage of clipping is its ability to create a seal. The clip, applied with calibrated pressure, conforms to the shape of the bag and provides a partial seal, protecting the product from external contaminants.
Optimised production rates
Modern clip systems, such as the EC 101 HS from GHD HartmannThis automatic clipping machine, designed to integrate perfectly into packaging lines, can handle several dozen bags per minute, significantly increasing your line's productivity. This automatic clipping machine, designed to integrate perfectly into packaging lines, can handle several dozen bags per minute, significantly boosting the productivity of your line.
Speed of execution is not at the expense of quality: each clip is fitted with precision, guaranteeing a uniform and reliable closure. This consistency in closure quality helps to reduce rejects and optimise the use of resources.
Reclosability solutions
Clipping machines can be fitted with different types of closure. The traditional plastic metal clip, which is very easy to re-use for resealing the bag after the consumer has removed a few slices or products from the bag. Alternatively, hard-lock inserts based on all-BE or compressed paper can be used, as can single-material adhesives. These are easy to open thanks to the two unglued edges. It can be printed and reused to close the bag.
The mechanical simplicity of the clippers means reduced maintenance and longer equipment life. Wear parts are limited and easily replaceable, minimising downtime and maintenance costs.
Unrivalled flexibility
One of the major strengths of clipping is its flexibility. Modern clipping machines like the EC 101 HS can quickly adapt to different bag formats, allowing production changes without complex equipment modifications.
This adaptability is particularly valuable for producers working with a varied range of products, or for those who regularly need to adjust their packaging formats. In just a few minutes, the clipper can be reconfigured to accommodate a new bag format, considerably reducing the transition time between two productions.
Clip-on technology in action: the example of the EC 101 HS
To illustrate the advantages of clipping in concrete terms, let's take the example of the EC 101 HS clipping machine developed by GHD Hartmann, the world leader in this field. This machine perfectly represents the state of the art in clipping technology.
A design focused on efficiency
The EC 101 HS consists of a pouch inflation table and a horizontal clipping device arranged at right angles. This configuration optimises production flow and facilitates manual insertion of products into the pouches.
The chassis and all housings are made from stainless steel, ensuring long life and easy cleaning to meet the most stringent hygiene requirements. Its compact design and integrated castors provide great flexibility of use and positioning on the production floor.
An optimised clipping process
The clipping process with the EC 101 HS is a perfect illustration of the efficiency of this technology:
- The sachets are opened on the inflation table, making it easier to insert the products.
- The products are placed in the bags by hand
- Brushes automatically align the filled bag to ensure optimum results
- Integrated vacuum system removes excess air before closing
- The clipping device applies the clip precisely, ensuring a hermetic seal
- The clipped bag is evacuated, ready for the next packaging stages
This sequence, which is fully automated with the exception of product insertion, guarantees high speeds while maintaining consistent closure quality.
Integrating clipping into your production line
Adopting a clipping solution into your production line is a strategic investment that needs to be carefully planned. Several factors need to be taken into account to ensure successful integration.
Analysis of specific needs
Each production operation has unique characteristics that will influence the choice of clipping equipment. The nature of the products, the type of bags used, the desired output rates and the space available are all parameters to be considered.
An in-depth analysis of these needs, carried out in collaboration with clip experts, will enable us to identify the solution best suited to your specific context. This preliminary stage is essential to guarantee optimum return on investment.
Compatibility with existing systems
Integrating a clipping machine into an existing line requires particular attention to compatibility with upstream and downstream equipment. Modern clipping systems are designed to interface seamlessly with other packaging machines.
The modularity of clip-on solutions generally allows seamless integration into the production flow, maximising overall line efficiency.
Training and support
Operators' mastery of clip technology is a key success factor. With the right training, they can exploit the full potential of the equipment and optimise production performance.
Suppliers of clipping solutions generally offer comprehensive training programmes, covering not only the day-to-day use of the machines but also preventive maintenance operations and the adjustments required during format changes.
Clipping: a solution for the future
With ever-increasing demands in terms of food safety, energy efficiency and flexibility, clipping is emerging as the technology of the future for closing bags.
Recent developments in this field, including the integration of digital control systems and the use of recyclable materials for clips, further enhance the appeal of this solution. Clipping is constantly evolving to meet the challenges of the modern food industry, combining tradition and innovation for performance.
Conclusion: Clipping, a strategic choice for your company
Opting for a clipping solution is a strategic choice for any company wishing to optimise its production while guaranteeing the quality of its products. This proven technology offers a perfect balance between performance, reliability and cost, meeting the most stringent market requirements.
By choosing quality clipping equipment, such as that offered by GHD Hartmann and distributed by Sermatec, you are investing in a long-term solution that will contribute directly to your company's competitiveness.
Don't wait any longer to discover how clipping can transform your packaging process. Our experts are at your disposal to study your specific needs and propose the solution best suited to your production context.
