Learn more about our pressure seal machines by watching these videos.

Which Pressure Seal Machine is the best fit for my application?

The duty cycle per month is important. However, the quantity per each individual run must be taken into consideration. Are there seasonal fluctuations in print volume that may require a larger machine during those periods? Sometimes two smaller units vs. one large one can be the better approach. It is sometimes better, especially on mission-critical applications, to have two machines providing redundancy on the event of down time. Other considerations include the length and width of the form, the fold depths, paper basis weight, and ease of use. A good way of comparing one system over another is to look at the weight of the equipment. Lightweight, lightly constructed folder/sealers are just not going to last over the long haul. Choose a well-built machine with a heavy-duty sealing section that will last. Total weight of the folder/sealer is a good indication of a well-built machine.

What is Duty Cycle and why is it so important?

Duty cycle is the manufacturer’s recommendation as to the maximum number of documents that should be processed per month on the machine. It’s important to note that the quantity of forms running through the sealer per session must also be considered when purchasing equipment. Reaching a machine’s duty cycle with one or two heavy-volume runs may cause premature wear, overheating, and excessive maintenance.

What are some of the key features to look for in Pressure Seal Equipment?

Ease of operation, heavy-duty construction, durability, processing speed, duty cycle, purchase, and rental options are elements to consider when purchasing Pressure Seal Equipment. The top three features to look for are:

1) What is the weight of the machine? Heavier machines have more robust construction and will perform better. Check the thickness of the side frames to which the sealing rollers are attached. Light weight, light-gauge metal will not stand up to the very high pressures endured by the sealing rollers. Over time the side frames will sag, causing loss of sealing pressure in the roller section and therefore a loss of sealing quality.

2) What is the size and construction of the sealing rollers in the machine? Are they solid rollers of just light weight hollow construction? Are the sealing rollers larger in diameter and heavier construction on the high-volume machines or does the company use the same size rollers on all its machines? Light weight sealing rollers will bow under the sealing pressure and this will affect the quality of seal achieved. Higher speeds and constant running require larger, more robust sealing section design. This is of utmost importance to ensure a consistent, secure seal on a pressure seal form.

3) How are paper jams cleared and how accessible is the paper path and the critical areas inside the machine? Does the machine provide a “kick out” feature whereby mis-feeds or mis-folded forms can be automatically cleared by the operator? Does the machine provide feedback as to where a mis-feed occurred?

Other important features are ease of fold plate adjustment, sound level, size of in-feed hopper, and power requirement. Options to look for are a reset table and non-resettable counter, and types of out-feed conveyor systems available. Lastly, but probably most important post-installation, is availability of a reliable and properly trained service network. Who does one call when there is a problem? Is it the form or the machine? Can the problem be solved quickly with phone support or does it require on-site service? A single point of contact for any technical problem is absolutely essential.

What is processing speed and why is it important?

Processing speed is the optimum speed at which a folder/sealer can operate. However, like a speedometer on a vehicle, certain limitations must be set to maintain consistent processing. When identifying the true output of the folder/sealer, issues such as loading and off-loading and downtime must be taken into account. No machine will yield its maximum speed per hour unless loading and unloading forms, clearing jams, and normal workday interruptions are taken into consideration. The “actual yield” per hour will be something less than the folder/sealer’s “maximum speed.” Using this approximate figure, does the machine still fit the volume of the application?

In addition to purchasing pressure seal equipment, D & R Business Forms also offers pressure seal equipment rental and leasing options.