Before acquiring a packaging machine, you should consider its longevity. Be sure your supplier provides you with an understanding of how the equipment is built. Frequently packaging machines have a number of moving parts and a robust design will help minimize the effects of vibration over time. Vibration can create problems with metal fatigue, stress fractures, bearing issues and loose wires resulting in excess downtime and increased parts replacement costs. Ask about other considerations that will ensure the lines holds up in both wash down environments and rigorous cleaning. Ask for historical spare parts costs from like-kind manufacturers and equipment to estimate parts expenditures annually. Do your homework; ask other trusted professionals about their experience with the equipment AND the supplier. Additionally, ask for expected efficiencies of the line – a good partner will offer this readily.

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