HOW TO APPLY CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT IN PACKAGING?

The constant search for optimization and improvement is a key factor in the success of companies in the industry and essential when the objective is to achieve exceptional results in operational processes.

Next, we will explore the concept of continuous improvement in packaging, learn about its advantages and learn about practical actions that can be applied in the process.

What is continuous improvement?

To start: did you know that continuous improvement is not just an intention, but a method?

This method works by following a series of steps that include identifying problems and opportunities for improvement, as well as analyzing and implementing actions that will result in increased productivity, reduced costs and improved quality.

It involves constant efforts to improve and optimize an organization’s processes, products and services. The approach aims to achieve incremental and sustainable improvements over time.

Benefits of continuous improvement in industry

Continuous improvement is not a single initiative, but rather a constant commitment to improvement in all areas of industrial operations. Check out the main benefits of investing in a continuous improvement method:

Increased productivity

By optimizing processes, it is possible to reduce production time and waste of resources, which results in increased productivity.

Cost reduction

Continuous improvement also helps reduce costs by eliminating waste and optimizing the use of resources.

Quality improvement

Continuous improvement contributes to the quality of product and services by improving process control and reducing defects.

Read also: How to avoid bottlenecks in the food industry in the packaging process.

Continuous improvement in packaging: What are the gains?

The packaging process is an essential step in the production of many products. It is through packaging that products are prepared for transport and sale.

It is often at this stage that the famous bottlenecks occur, reducing the production pace, which ends up compromising results and meeting product delivery demands. Investing in the method of continuous improvement in packaging is a smart action that brings gains that include:

• More agility: increased speed and efficiency of the packaging process, which leads to increased productivity.
• Lower costs: Continuous improvement reduces packaging process costs by improving process control and reducing waste.
• Higher quality: Continuous improvement helps improve the quality of packaged products by improving accuracy and reducing defects.
• Customer satisfaction: Increasing the efficiency of the packaging process leads to increased customer satisfaction.
• Process safety: through identification and elimination of risks.

Now that we’ve listed the gains, let’s talk about good practices for applying the continuous improvement method to packaging your products.

10 actions to implement continuous improvement in packaging

We have listed 10 continuous improvement actions that you can analyze the feasibility of and plan for implementation in the packaging of your products.

1. Advanced automation

Investing in automated packaging equipment leads to significant improvements in efficiency.

Vertical Fillers, balers, boxers, baggers and palletizing systems are capable of speeding up packaging, ensuring speed and precision.

2. Real-time quality control

Implementing real-time quality control systems will identify deviations and defects immediately. This allows for quick corrections and reduces waste from out-of-spec products.

Devices such as the checkweigher and metal detector help identify if there are packages that are overweight or contain foreign bodies, removing unsuitable packages from the packaging process.

3. Layout Optimization

Rethinking the packaging line layout saves time and reduces unnecessary movement of materials. An efficient design improves production flow and minimizes bottlenecks.

4. Use of accurate weighing technologies

Precision when weighing products is essential to avoid under- or over-sizing of packaging. Precise dispensers ensure that each package has the exact amount of product.

5. Training and qualification of operators

Investing in the training and qualification of packaging machine operators is essential. Well-trained people are better able to keep machines running efficiently and identify problems quickly.

Read also: The importance of training employees in the automatic packaging process

6. Preventative maintenance management

An effective preventative maintenance program helps to avoid unscheduled downtime and extend the life of machines. Scheduling regular maintenance saves money and prevents lost production.

7. Data analysis and process optimization

Using data analysis software to monitor packaging process performance reveals valuable insights. Identifying areas for improvement based on real data leads to adjustments that increase efficiency.

Systems such as LIN-K monitor and collect data from packaging machinery, providing information to improve decision-making by area managers.

8. Sustainability and waste reduction

Evaluating the use of sustainable packaging materials and reducing waste in the packaging process is not only good for the environment, it results in cost savings.

9. Temperature and humidity control

For sensitive products, such as food or pharmaceuticals, maintaining precise control of temperature and humidity in the packaging process is essential for quality and safety.

10. Employee feedback

Collecting feedback from employees who work directly on the packaging process reveals opportunities for improvement that may not have been detected internally.

Remember: continuous improvement is a journey, not a destination. It is important to set clear goals and objectives and monitor results regularly to ensure improvements are sustainable.

How Indumak can help you optimize packaging

Continuous improvement is the key to achieving excellence in industrial processes. Count on Indumak as your partner on this journey of improvement.

With our solutions in equipment for packaging products and an after-sales service that is a reference in the segment, we support the growth of your business.

Get in touch or visit our website to learn more about how we can help you achieve your continuous improvement goals. Together, we can achieve excellence in the industry.