Questions You Should Know about Standard Multihead Weigher

Understanding Multihead Weighers: Selecting the Ideal Combination Scale for Your Needs

Written by Yamato Corporation

For more Standard Multihead Weigher information, please contact us. We are here to provide expert guidance and answers.

If you visit the Yamato Dataweigh™ Combination Scales page on YamatoAmericas.com, you might initially think that all multihead weighers appear identical. While they do share a similar appearance at first glance, multihead weighers—or combination scales—are actually highly customized pieces of food-packaging equipment.

The first multihead weigher was introduced in the 1970s, and since then, technological advancements have been numerous. However, the exterior design has not drastically changed over the decades. It's vital to remember that not every combination scale is suitable for every application.

Here at Yamato Corporation, we aim to help you avoid the costly mistake of purchasing the wrong multihead weigher for your application. This article will provide deeper insights into the elements to consider when choosing the right combination scale.

Begin with Specific Product Questions

To ensure you select the ideal scale, start by asking yourself the following five questions:

1. What type of product(s) will be weighed on the scale?

2. What are the characteristics of the product(s)? (Shape, size, stickiness, whether it's fresh or frozen, etc.)
3. What are the sanitation requirements? (Washdown vs. wipe-down)
4. What are your target weight and speed requirements?
5. What packaging equipment will you use with the scale? (VFFS, tray line, pouch machine, jar line, etc.)

Sharing the answers to these questions, along with as many product details as possible, will aid in determining the best weighing solution for your needs.

Create a Product Matrix

Yamato advises creating a product matrix to define the product(s) and target weight(s) for the scale. Knowing this ahead of time will save you time and money in the long run by ensuring the scale meets both your immediate and future requirements.

Evaluate Product Feasibility

Multihead weighers utilize vibrations to move products from feed pans into feed buckets. If you can't control the movement of the product at the top of the scale, then a multihead weigher may not be a viable solution. Be ready to send product samples to the scale manufacturer for testing.

Grasp the Importance of Contact Surface Variations

One crucial aspect to consider is the product contact surfaces. These surfaces come into direct contact with your product, and different surfaces are designed for varying product characteristics.

Most manufacturers offer at least two types of contact surfaces:

1. Smooth:

   Ideal for free-flowing items like dry snacks, nuts, hard candies, and seasoned products.

2. Embossed:

   Better for sticky or difficult-to-move products as they minimize contact area, aiding in movement through the scale.

Select the Right Product-Specific Configuration

After determining the appropriate type of contact surface, consider four additional elements: top cone, linear feed pans, bucket size and door type, and collating chutes and funnel.

1. Top Cone:

   The top cone receives the product and distributes it through vibrations. Depending on the product's rigidity, moisture, and shape, you'll need a specific top cone angle and texture. For instance, steep, embossed cones are needed for leafy greens, whereas flat cones suit jellybeans or nuts.

2. Linear Feed Pans:

   These feed the product into the buckets, vibrating to move the product along. Options include U-shaped, V-shaped, flat, and cascading pans. Angle adjustments further help with different product types.

3. Bucket Size and Door Type:

   Choose bucket size based on the max piece size and target weight. Also decide between single-action doors and dual-action bomb-bay doors, considering product characteristics. Remember, there is no industry standard for bucket sizes, so compare manufacturers carefully.

4. Collating Chutes and Funnel:

   These guide the product out of the scale. Sticky products need steeper angles, and swirling products might require segmented funnels.

Determine the Number of Buckets

After configuring the scale components, it's time to consider speed and accuracy needs.

More buckets mean potential for higher speeds and more precise measurements, but consider the law of diminishing returns. Often, 14-head scales are sufficient for most applications.

Discuss your needs with us to identify the best options, such as a 10 head multi-head weigher one set. Our knowledgeable team is ready to assist.

We're Here to Assist

A well-configured combination scale is vital to your packaging line’s success. Ensure your selected scale suits your specific product needs.

Whatever you need to weigh, a Yamato scale can handle it. Allow us to help you choose the right scale for your application by reaching out to one of our weighing experts.

Multihead weighers are essential in the food packaging industry for their efficiency and accuracy. However, like any machinery, they can encounter issues that impact their performance. This article, brought to you by Smartpack—a leading Chinese multihead weigher manufacturer—will help you troubleshoot some common problems.

1. Product Sticking to the Weighing Surface

A common problem is product sticking to the weighing surface, often due to moisture content or static electricity.

Solution: Opt for a dimple plate design for feeding pans, hoppers, and discharge chutes to minimize contact area. Additionally, consider using non-stick, food-grade Teflon coating for extremely sticky products.

2. Inconsistent Weight Accuracy

Weight accuracy can be inconsistent due to incorrect calibration, settings, or external factors.

Solution: Check for obstructions around the weigh hoppers, inspect load cells via the touchscreen, and perform proper calibration. Verify that machine settings are correct and replace worn parts like load cells or weigh hoppers if necessary.

3. Material Blockages or Bucket Jamming

Product blockages may occur due to oversized items or incorrect machine settings, disrupting the weighing process.

Solution: Ensure the product size is compatible with the hopper capacity. Adjust the machine settings accordingly, especially the hopper opening time. If persistent, check if individual weigher parts are functioning correctly and replace relevant components.

4. Excessive Noise

Excessive noise often results from loose bolts or incorrect machine settings.

Solution: Inspect parts such as bearings, motors, and hoppers. Tighten the bolts and ensure motors are operating in the correct direction.

5. Inaccurate Product Feeding

Inaccurate feeding into hoppers can cause inconsistent weights, often due to worn or misaligned feeders, incorrect settings, or blockages.

Solution: Check feeder alignment and condition. Adjust machine settings and clear product blockages. Routine maintenance can help prevent these issues.

6. Electrical Issues

Electrical problems like power fluctuations, blown fuses, or damaged wiring may cause malfunctions.

Solution: Ensure proper installation and secure connections. Replace worn parts as needed and monitor environmental factors to protect against electrical issues.

In conclusion, common issues with multihead weighers include product sticking, weight inaccuracies, material blockages, inaccurate feeding, and electrical problems. Addressing these issues is crucial for maintaining speed and accuracy.

Before purchasing a multihead weigher, verify whether the manufacturer provides training and after-sales service. At Smartpack, we offer specialized support to address our customers' challenges and are committed to being your reliable partner in reducing labor costs and enhancing production. Share your requirements with us today!

Related blog: How to choose the right multihead weigher?

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