Let’s be honest—packaging machinery is a serious investment. You depend on it to keep your production line moving, deliver consistent results, and ultimately get your product out the door. But have you ever stopped to consider how much that machinery might be quietly costing you over time?
No, we’re not talking about the upfront purchase price. We’re talking about those hidden costs—unexpected maintenance, production slowdowns, or even wasted materials. At Marcote, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to share a little-known secret: the right coatings can make a world of difference in how your machinery performs, how long it lasts, and how much it saves you in the long run.
The Hidden Costs of Packaging Machinery
It’s easy to overlook the subtle ways packaging equipment can drain resources. Take friction, for example. Over time, materials like card, paper, and plastic films running against guide rails, dead plates, and folding boards will wear and deform, leading to more frequent repairs and increased downtime. To combat this, we apply a hard, low-friction coating that minimises wear, reduces maintenance, and keeps your production line running smoothly.
Then there’s the issue of build-up on heat-seal bars, which can grind operations to a halt and force production teams to stop and clean mid-shift. This build-up often happens because the materials being sealed—such as packaging films—stick to the heat-seal bar itself. In cases like sealing a bag of crisps, this sticking leads to defective seals and wasted products. By applying a specialised non-stick coating to the heat-seal bars, packaging materials no longer adhere, resulting in a flawless seal every time.
Another common problem is airborne product residue, particularly in processes like packaging caster sugar. When particles land on the hot heat-seal bars, they accumulate over time, causing further defects in the seal. Coated bars not only prevent this build-up but are also much easier to clean, ensuring your line operates efficiently with minimal interruptions.
Here’s where it gets expensive:
- Increased Maintenance Costs: Worn parts need replacing, sticking components need constant cleaning, and downtime leads to additional labor costs.
- Production Inefficiency: Every second spent fixing issues or recalibrating equipment is time lost. Over a year, that inefficiency can shave thousands off your bottom line.
- Shortened Equipment Lifespan: Without proper protection, critical parts of your machinery wear out faster, meaning you’ll face expensive replacements far sooner than expected.
Why Coatings Matter More Than You Think
Most people think the machinery itself is what keeps production efficient. And while the design and mechanics are crucial, the coatings on your equipment play an equally important role in ensuring everything runs smoothly.
At Marcote, we specialise in advanced industrial coatings that tackle these issues head-on. Here’s how the right coating can turn those hidden costs into savings:
1. Non-Stick Coatings: No More Frustrating Build-Up
Ever had a heat-seal bar or multi-head weigher gummed up with residue mid-production? Non-stick coatings make surfaces resistant to adhesives, powders, and other sticky substances, keeping your machines running longer without interruptions.
2. Low-Friction Coatings: Smooth Operations, Every Time
Low-friction coatings reduce drag between moving parts, lowering the wear and tear on components. The result? A more efficient production line and less downtime for repairs.
3. Abrasion-Resistant Coatings: Built to Last
Packaging machinery works hard, especially in high-demand environments. Abrasion-resistant coatings protect key parts from physical wear, extending their lifespan and reducing replacement costs.
4. Chemical and Corrosion Resistance: Ready for Anything
For machines exposed to cleaning agents, chemicals, or corrosive materials, specialised coatings provide a protective barrier. This keeps your equipment safe from damage and ensures it performs reliably over time.
Packaging Line Transformation: The Marcote Difference
Here’s the thing: not all coatings are created equal. Off-the-shelf solutions might work for some general applications, but packaging lines operate under unique conditions. That’s why we offer bespoke coatings, tailored to the specific needs of your equipment and processes.
Our coatings aren’t just about protection—they’re about improving efficiency and reducing the stress points that slow your line down. Here’s what that could look like for your business:
- Heat-Seal Bars: Eliminate build-up and ensure smooth sealing for every product.
- Guide Rails: Reduce friction, so products glide effortlessly through the line.
- Conveyors: Prevent sticking and improve product flow for faster operations.
By focusing on your machinery’s pain points, we don’t just fix the problem—we optimise the process.
What’s the ROI of Better Coatings?
Let’s talk numbers. Investing in the right coatings might seem like an extra expense, but when you look at the bigger picture, the return on investment speaks for itself:
- Fewer Repairs: With less wear and tear, you’ll save on replacement parts and labor.
- Reduced Downtime: A smooth-running line means no more costly halts in production.
- Improved Efficiency: Faster operations lead to higher output, which directly impacts your revenue.
- Extended Equipment Lifespan: Protecting your machinery means you can keep it in service longer, delaying costly replacements.
Put simply, the right coatings pay for themselves—and then some.
Are You Ready to Save Time, Money, and Stress?
We know packaging machinery isn’t cheap, and we also know how frustrating it can be when your line slows down for preventable reasons. That’s why we’re here to help. At Marcote, we combine industry expertise with cutting-edge coating technology to deliver solutions that keep your equipment running like clockwork.
So, ask yourself: Are your packaging machines costing you more than they should? If the answer is “yes,” it’s time to make a change. Contact us today to learn how our bespoke coatings can save you time, money, and hassle.
