Matrix Mercury, a flexible vertical packaging machine

The Mercury is a high speed Matrix vertical form fill seal machine designed with longevity in mind. When you need a reliable, durable, system, the Mercury is the perfect solution. With a cycle speed up to 140 BPM and many available options, you’ll notice a drastic difference in manufacturing and production.

Chris Higgins from Matrix Packaging Machinery introduces their vertical form-fill-seal machines, which produce bag sizes from 2.75 to 18 inches wide. Matrix emphasizes long-term customer support with an in-house parts department and a large service team across the U.S., supporting industries such as bakery, snacks, coffee, pet foods, and pharmaceuticals.

Matrix offers standard machines and custom-tailored solutions. They are the master distributor for FL Tecnics, INV Pack, and Toyo Jidoki. As part of ProMach, a global leader in packaging line solutions, Matrix helps customers maintain and grow their reputation.

Chris demonstrates the Matrix Mercury vertical form-fill-seal machine, highlighting its versatility in packaging produce, snacks, and confections. The Mercury can handle multiple bag styles, including pillow, gusseted, and flat-bottom bags. The demonstration includes:

1. Radishes: A 14-head Yamato scale weighs and dispenses radishes into bags, which are sealed and separated.

2. Sunflower Seeds: Similar setup with a 14-head scale and friction pull belts, producing registered bags.

3. Twin Mercury: Two machines in one frame, each running independently but generally producing the same product. It includes automatic edge guide and touch screen controls.

4. Candy: Running Mike and Ike candies at 100 bags per minute with registered film and photo-eye registration.

In the Q&A session, Chris explains that changing bag length is programmable via the HMI, while bag width requires changing the forming tube and film roll. The machine's maximum weight depends on product density and bag size. The Mercury can cycle empty bags at 120-125 per minute, with actual speed depending on product, filler, film, and bag size.

The machine is user-friendly, with various washdown options available to meet different hygiene standards. Standard voltage is 240 single-phase 20 amps, but transformers are available if needed. Parts for older Matrix machines are still available, and with proper care, the machines can last over 20 years.

For more information, visit their showroom at p.e.show/300 or the website at www.matrixpm.com.