Introduction to Packaging

Table of Contents

Chapter 1: The Packaging Mechanic

Topics: Packaging operations; Machinery maintenance; Planned maintenance; Lubrication

Learning Objectives:

• Describe types of machines for packing and filling.
• Describe packaging machinery breakdown maintenance procedures.
• List specific requirements for planned packaging machinery maintenance.
• Explain packaging machinery lubrication selection, scheduling, and correct application.

Chapter 2: Actuating Mechanisms

Topics: Cranks; Cams; Intermittent motion mechanisms; Geneva wheels; Drives; Angle-doubling drives; Toggle links; Detents; Overload protection

Learning Objectives:

• Explain the operation of the lever and crank.
• Describe the differences among types of cams.
• Explain how ratchet wheels and Geneva wheels produce intermittent motion.
• Describe reciprocating and oscillating drive mechanisms.

Chapter 3: Problem Solving Principles

Topics: Elements and tolerances of measurement; Types of packaging machines; Troubleshooting machines; Determining causes of trouble

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the differences between intermittent-motion and continuous-motion packaging machines.
• Explain how to time a packaging machine with a timing dial.
• Define the four basic machineelements-timing, position, stroke, and alignment.
• List correct packaging machine troubleshooting steps.

Chapter 4: Mechanical Drives

Topics: Drive mechanisms; Coupling construction and installation; Belt and chain drives; Speed reducers; Gearing

Learning Objectives:

• List the functions of couplings.
• Explain the differences among the more common types of couplings.
• Describe how to check coupling alignment and how to correct a misalignment.
• Compare the different types of belt and chain drives.
• Describe the different types of speed reducers and gearing.

Chapter 5: Motors and Brakes

Topics: Primary drive components; Motor construction classification; Mechanical/electrical speed drives; Clutches; Brakes; Maintenance

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the basic features of ac motors.
• Compare the different types of fractional-horsepower motors and three-phase motors.
• List the features of common and special types of motors.
• Explain how variable-speed units work.
• Describe the operation and use of electric, hydraulic, and mechanical clutches.

Chapter 6: Electrical Controls

Topics: Startup and running sequence; Motor starters; Machine control; Time delay relays; Product control; Adhesive application; Product sensors

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the elements of a packaging machine's start-up sequence.
• Explain how thermal overload and melting alloy starters work.
• Explain the use of detectors and time delays in packaging machine control.
• Describe how adhesive is applied.
• Explain the differences in operation among types of product detectors.

Chapter 7: Packaging Materials

Topics: Shrink and nonshrink materials; Combination and water soluble film; Plain and coated papers; Chip-board cartons; Glass and plastic bottles and jars

Learning Objectives:

• List the characteristics of film.
• Compare the different types of shrink film.
• Name the different types of combination films.
• Describe the uses of water-soluble film, kraft paper, and chipboard.
• List the advantages and disadvantages of glass and plastic bottles and jars.

Chapter 8: Methods of Filling

Topics: Flexible packaging; Vertical and horizontal filling machines; Pouch, weigh, carton, and liquid filling; Filling by count

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the operation of vertical and horizontal flexible film packaging machines.
• Explain how volumetric pouch filters work.
• Explain how carton-filling and liquid-filling machines work.
• Describe methods of filling by count.

Chapter 9: Methods of Sealing

Topics: Tube, film, and high-frequency sealing; Capping; Seaming; Tying; Sewing; Gluing; Stapling; Stitching; Strapping

Learning Objectives:

• Describe how plastic and metal tubes are sealed.
• Explain the operation of different types of film sealers.
• Describe how high-frequency sealers work.
• Explain the basics of cappers and seamers.
• Describe correct procedures for using hot and cold glues.

Chapter 10: Weighing and Measuring

Topics: Units of weight; Volume measurement; Weighing devices; Scale components; Net weighers; Controls; Checkweighers; Installation

Learning Objectives:

• Explain the uses of gross, net, and check weighers.
• Compare the mechanisms of counterbalances and force balance systems.
• List the components in a scalesystem.
• Explain how typical check weighers work.
• Describe proper troubleshooting, maintenance, and installation techniques for scales.

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