Tube film machine (tubular bags) vs open mouth: selection guide per product and bag type

Your production line is running at full capacity, but the packaging phase is stagnating. Choosing the right packaging machine is a complex decision-making process. Make the wrong choice? Then this costs you valuable production time and material.

Are you facing the choice between a tube film machine and an open mouth system? Both automation solutions have unique advantages for specific industrial applications. In this article, we help you to make the right decision.

What is a tube film machine (FFS)?

A tube film machine uses a continuous roll of plastic film. This machine forms, fills and seals the bag in one fluid movement. This process is also known as the Form Fill Seal (FFS) principle.

This method is extremely efficient for high-volume production. You save considerably on packaging material because you perfectly adjust the bag length. Moreover, the tubular bag is completely waterproof after sealing.

When do you choose open mouth bags?

With an open mouth packaging machine, you use ready-made, pre-formed bags. The machine picks up the empty bag, fills it with your product and seals it. This system offers maximum flexibility for your packaging line.

You choose open mouth bags when visual presentation is crucial. Think of high-quality paper bags or packaging with a special closure. For complex, strongly dusting products, this is also often a reliable choice.

Comparison based on your product

The type of product largely determines your ideal packaging solution. Consider the following important product properties in your decision-making process:

The high speed of the FFS system maximises your productivity with bulk goods. An open mouth packaging machine, on the other hand, offers the versatility for a broader product range.

The impact on your operational efficiency

Both systems influence the efficiency of your production line in a different way. A tube film machine runs extremely fast and requires far fewer roll changes. This reduces downtime and significantly increases your total output.

An open mouth system, on the other hand, excels in very fast format changes. Do you switch daily between different bag sizes or packaging materials? Then this flexible system offers exactly the agility your process needs.

Votech as your partner in packaging technology

At Votech, we understand that every industrial production line is unique. As a total solutions provider, we offer an integrated portfolio of high-quality packaging solutions. We always look beyond just the machine itself.

We proactively support you from the first design to preventive maintenance. This guarantees that your automation solutions always perform optimally and without malfunctions. Together we find the perfect balance between speed and flexibility.

Frequently asked questions about tube film machine (tubular bags) vs open mouth: selection guide per product and bag type

Which system is cheaper to operate?

A tube film machine is often considerably more economical in the long run. Film on a roll is cheaper per bag than ready-made open mouth bags. However, the initial investment in the FFS machine is sometimes slightly higher.

Can I use paper bags on a tube film machine?

No, a tube film machine works exclusively with thermoplastic film on a roll. Do you want to package your product in sustainable or representative paper bags? Then you always need an open mouth packaging machine for your process.

Conclusion

The choice between tube film and open mouth depends on your specific process. Look critically at your product, the desired appearance and the required capacity. Both systems can enormously increase your operational productivity.

Do you want to make sure you are making the right strategic investment? Contact the experienced experts at Votech today. We are happy to advise you on the best packaging machines for your specific facility.