Select a multihead or combination weigher around the real product, target weights, pack format, output and the complete upstream and downstream line.
Multihead weighers are normally evaluated for products that can be distributed into separate portions, such as snacks, granules, pellets, coffee beans and small components. The correct configuration depends on the real product, target weight, piece-size range, required output, pack opening, product-contact requirements and the timing of the downstream bagger, pouch machine or container.
It is a strong starting point when product flows as separate pieces or granules, can be spread consistently across the distribution system and benefits from weight-based combination selection rather than fixed-volume dosing.
Fine, aerated, cohesive or dusty powders may be better suited to controlled auger dosing. Lower-output free-flowing products may justify a linear or compact vibratory weigher. A representative product trial should settle the choice.
Provide the normal product range, target weights, pack drawings or opening dimensions, required output, available height, cleaning expectations and details of the upstream feed and downstream packaging machine.
Head count is only one part of a working combination-weighing system. Product distribution, hopper volume, contact surfaces, discharge control, support structure and packer timing must be considered together.
| Decision area | What must be confirmed | Evidence to request |
|---|---|---|
| Product window | Smallest and largest pieces, bulk density where relevant, fragility, oil, dust, static and batch variation | Representative production samples and difficult batches |
| Target weights | Normal targets, tolerance, commercial giveaway concern and any recipe range | Ordered pack-weight results under stated conditions |
| Head and hopper configuration | Useful portion size, hopper volume, product release and the number of available combinations | Trial configuration, settings and performance record |
| Product-contact surfaces | Smooth, dimpled or other application-specific surface requirements, cleaning and product damage | Before/after samples and retained-product observations |
| Discharge path | Timing hopper, chute, drop height, pack opening and seal-zone protection | Pack samples, layout drawing and discharge sequence |
| Controls and line integration | Ready/request/complete signals, fault recovery, recipe ownership and safe restart | Interface schedule and FAT/SAT test plan |
An upstream conveyor or elevator supplies product at a controlled level so the central distribution and radial feed system are not starved or overloaded.
Feed trays move product into feed and weigh hoppers. Portion size and hopper population affect how many useful combinations are available to the controller.
The controller compares available hopper weights and selects a permitted group that approaches the target according to the machine settings.
The selected hoppers discharge through the chute or timing hopper when the downstream machine is ready. The pack opening, drop height and timing must protect product and seal quality.
Use an agreed sample method or downstream checkweigher data to review finished packs. The weighing head, transfer path and packer should be assessed as one process.
Head count depends on target weight, individual piece weight, product distribution, required output and the number of useful combinations needed. More heads can create more options, but they do not compensate for poor feeding or an unsuitable hopper volume.
Free-flowing pieces, snacks, granules, pellets, beans and small components are common starting points. Sticky, oily, fragile, very light or long products require application-specific feeding, surfaces, geometry and trial evidence.
Yes, where the discharge, timing hopper, bagger-ready signal, dose-complete signal and fault-recovery sequence are engineered together. The line must be tested with the actual bag dimensions and production product.
It can discharge a weighed dose into a pouch machine when pouch opening, product drop, seal-zone protection and machine timing are controlled. Pouch presentation and sealing remain functions of the pouch system.
Use representative product, real target weights, an agreed number of cycles and a defined calculation. Record mean, minimum and maximum weights, giveaway, underweight events, damage, stops and line waiting time.
Configuration, product-contact parts, frame and access, upstream feed, timing hopper, chutes, controls, downstream interfaces, installation, trials, FAT, commissioning and spare-parts scope can all change the project.
Lancing can use the same evidence to recommend the next trial, machine route and integration discussion.
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