Comparing Different Types of Multihead Weigher Machines

Multihead weigher machines are a type of packaging machinery designed to accurately weigh and fill products into containers. They are widely used in various industries, including food, pharmaceutical, and chemical, for applications such as packaging snacks, candies, nuts, and powders. Understanding the different types of multihead weigher machines and their features is crucial for selecting the most suitable machine for your specific packaging needs. This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of different multihead weigher machine types, highlighting their advantages, disadvantages, and key selection factors.

Linear vs. Rotary

Multihead weigher machines come in two primary designs: linear and rotary. Linear machines have a linear arrangement of weigh hoppers, while rotary machines have a rotating platform with weigh hoppers.

Linear Multihead Weighers

Advantages: High accuracy and speed, suitable for complex giveaway target weights, can handle various product types.

Disadvantages: Higher maintenance requirements, limited capacity compared to rotary weighers.

Rotary Multihead Weighers

Advantages: Higher capacities than linear weighers, suitable for high-volume packaging, lower maintenance requirements.

Disadvantages: Lower accuracy than linear weighers, limited flexibility in handling complex giveaway target weights.

Load Cells vs. Force Sensors

Multihead weigher machines use either load cells or force sensors to measure the weight of each product.

Load Cells

Advantages: High accuracy and stability, suitable for weighing a wide range of products.

Disadvantages: More sensitive to environmental factors, higher cost.

Force Sensors

Advantages: Less sensitive to environmental factors, lower cost.

Disadvantages: Lower accuracy than load cells, may not be suitable for all product types.

Number of Weigh Heads

The number of weigh heads on a multihead weigher machine determines its weighing capacity and speed.

Multiple Weigh Heads: Machines with a higher number of weigh heads can achieve faster speeds and more accurate weighments.

Fewer Weigh Heads: Machines with fewer weigh heads may be more cost-effective but have lower capacity and speed.

Discharge Systems

Multihead weigher machines offer different discharge systems to transfer the weighed products into containers.

Hopper Discharge: Products are directly discharged from the weigh hoppers into the container.

Bucket Discharge: Products are collected in a bucket before being discharged into the container.

Chute Discharge: Products are discharged into the container via a chute.

Selection Factors

When selecting a multihead weigher machine, consider the following factors:

Product Type: The machine should be compatible with the product characteristics, such as size, shape, and density.

Target Weight: The machine should be able to achieve the desired target weight accurately and consistently.

Capacity and Speed: The machine’s capacity and speed should meet the production requirements.

Accuracy: The machine’s accuracy should be sufficient for the application.

Maintenance Requirements: The machine should have minimal maintenance requirements to minimize downtime.

By understanding the different types of multihead weigher machines and their features, you can make an informed decision when selecting the most suitable machine for your specific packaging needs. Consider the factors discussed above to ensure that the machine meets your requirements for accuracy, speed, capacity, and reliability.