What are the process for secondary packaging of instant noodles?

Secondary packaging of bagged instant noodles involves the steps and machines required to group individual noodle packets into larger, transport-ready units. This process ensures that the products are protected, easy to handle, and efficiently distributed. Here’s an introduction to the secondary packaging process for bagged instant noodles, including the specific steps and machines involved:

1. Instant noodles sorting system

• Conveyor System: The process begins with a conveyor system that transports the individual noodle packets from the primary packaging line to the secondary packaging area. Conveyors ensure a smooth and continuous flow of packets.
• Accumulation Table: An accumulation table or buffer system collects and organizes the packets into predetermined group sizes, preparing them for the next packaging step.

2. Pillow packer

• Pillow packer: If the packets are to be grouped into a larger bag, a VFFS machine is used. This machine forms a plastic or laminate bag, fills it with the grouped noodle packets, and seals it. The pillow packing machine is ideal for creating bulk packages of multiple smaller packets.
• Multi-pack packing machine: For grouping packets into bigger bag, the packets are arranged on a tray or directly on the conveyor, and then passed through a pillow packingmachine.  

3. Cartoning

• Cartoning Machine: In cases where the grouped packets are to be placed into cartons, a cartoning machine is used. This machine automatically erects flat carton blanks into boxes, inserts the grouped noodle packets, and seals the cartons. The cartoning process can include:

4. Labeling and Coding

• Labeling Machine: Applies labels to the larger packages or cartons, which may include branding, product information, and barcodes.
• Coding Machine: Prints essential information such as batch numbers, expiration dates, and lot codes on the secondary packaging using inkjet or laser printers.

5. Case Packing

• Case Packer: This machine is used for placing multiple cartons or multipacksinto larger cases or boxes for bulk handling. The case packer can be configured to handle different packing patterns and case sizes.

▷ Wrap-around Case Packer: Wraps a case blank around the product groupings to form a complete case.

 ▷ Drop Packer: Drops the product groupings into a pre-formed case from above.

6. Palletizing

• Robotic Palletizer: An automated system that arranges the packed cases onto pallets in a specified pattern. Robotic arms equipped with grippers or suction pads handle the cases, ensuring precise placement.
• Conventional Palletizer: Uses mechanical systems to stack cases onto pallets. This type of palletizer is suitable for high-speed operations.

7. Stretch Wrapping

• Stretch Wrapper: Once the pallets are loaded with cases, they are wrapped with stretch film to secure the load for transportation. Stretch wrappers can be:

▷ Rotary Arm Stretch Wrapper: The pallet remains stationary while a rotating arm wraps the stretch film around it.

▷ Turntable Stretch Wrapper: The pallet is placed on a turntable that rotates, while a film carriage moves up and down to apply the stretch film.

8. Quality Control and Inspection

• Check Weigher: Ensures that each secondary package meets the required weight specifications, rejecting any that do not.
• Vision Inspection System: Checks for correct labeling, coding, and package integrity. Any packages that do not meet quality standards are automatically removed from the line.

9. Pallet Labeling and Coding

• Pallet Labeler: Applies identification labels to the wrapped pallets, including details such as pallet number, destination, and contents.
• Pallet Coding Machine: Prints necessary information directly onto the stretch film or a label on the pallet.

The secondary packaging process for bagged instant noodles involves several specialized machines and systems, each designed to ensure the efficient handling, grouping, and securing of individual packets into larger, transport-ready units. This process is essential for protecting the products during transit and for optimizing the supply chain.