Ultrasonic Sealing Technology by Bosch to increase Overall Equipment Effectiveness

Ultrasonic sealing technology by Bosch is a cost and process efficient solution. Ultrasonic sealing means that the sealing tools remain cold. Compared to heat sealing where heat is applied from the outside to seal the film, ultrasonic technology generates the heat required for the sealing process from within the film. With ultrasonic sealing, even wetted surfaces can be safely sealed.

Thanks to ultrasonic technology, there is no thermal impact on the product during packaging. This results in a gentle sealing process which is vital for confectionery and other heat-sensitive products. This is why cold-seal foils are often used in order to preserve product quality.

Ultrasonic sealing allows narrower sealing joints for longitudinal and cross seams compared with traditional heat sealing and therefore saves on packaging material. “Cold” ultrasonic sealing means that less complex and more cost-efficient film material can be used. A further cost reduction is achieved by the significantly higher linear speeds of the ultrasonic process. This allows for an optimal utilization of high speed packaging machines.

Ultrasonic sealing technology achieves sealed joints of highest quality while at the same time preserving product quality. A further effect is the strength of the sealing joint immediately following production. This means that safely packaged products can be transferred more quickly to downstream processes within the packaging line. Using ultrasonic sealing also prevents an agglutination of film residue and sealing material on hot sealing jaws. This results in a significant reduction of cleaning requirements and machine downtime. Reduced maintenance requirements and integrated process monitoring mean a significant increase in Overall Equipment Effectiveness.

Bosch has not just picked up the ultrasonic sealing technology but has also invested intensely in its development in order to replace traditional heat sealing. Successful research projects in this area led to numerous patent applications. In addition, Bosch has acquired patent rights, previously held by Mars Inc., for the ultrasonic sealing of longitudinal and cross seams in horizontal pillow packs for food products.

“Ultrasonic technology results in highly accurate, gentle processes and above all hermetically sealed packages”, says Dr. Lutz Zimmermann, Chief Technical Officer of Bosch Packaging Technology. "This procedure allows significantly narrower sealing joints compared to conventional sealing, as well as lesscomplex film composites. Both these factors offer customers reduced costs and increased process security."