Add Zippers to Existing and New VFFS Lines
Triangle pioneered the industry's first vertical zipper applicator in the 1980s and has since expanded its capabilities to include transverse zippers, longitudinal zippers, zipper tape and 3-flange and 4-flange zipper profiles. Common solutions support zipper profiles from leading suppliers including Zip-Pak®, FreshPak®, and Aplix®.
Today, food manufacturers have four primary options for adding recloseability to packages made on a Triangle VFFS bagger:
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Integrated transverse zippers
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Pre-applied zippers
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Zipper tape technology
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Stand-alone zipper applicators
A key advantage is that resealable packaging can often be added to existing VFFS equipment without replacing the bagger, helping manufacturers preserve capital investments.
Integrated Transverse Zippers
Integrated transverse zippers are the most common resealable packaging format. The zipper is applied horizontally across the package during the bag-making process and can also be configured as a half zipper that functions as a pour spout.
These zippers provide a familiar consumer experience and are available from suppliers including Zip-Pak®, FreshPak®, and Aplix® for laminate and polyethylene structures.
Common Applications
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Frozen foods
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Snacks and confectionery
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RTE CerealDairy products
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Pet food and treats
Pre-Applied Zippers
Pre-applied zippers offer a low-complexity approach to resealable packaging. The zipper is applied to the film before it reaches the VFFS machine, eliminating the need for zipper application hardware on the bagger.
This turnkey solution can reduce equipment requirements while providing an economical entry into resealable packaging. Package openings are typically smaller than other zipper formats.
Common Applications
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Frozen foods
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Candy
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Dehydrated fruit
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Small particulate products
Zipper Tape Technology for Full Product Access
Zipper tape is used in 3-sided seal packages and creates a package opening across the entire width of the bag. This design provides easy and full access to product contents and is commonly used with LDPE materials.
For products that benefit from a large opening, zipper tape can provide both convenience and package differentiation.
Common Applications
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Produce
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Frozen chicken
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Sugar
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Bulk snack products
Stand-Alone Zipper Applicators for Existing Baggers
Stand-alone zipper applicators allow food producers to add resealable packaging capability without replacing existing VFFS equipment. Positioned behind the bagger, these unique systems can convert any brand of VFFS machine to run 3-flange or 4-flange transverse zippers.
This unit is a great solution for contract packagers as well a food producers who need flexibility. Available as fixed or mobile units, stand-alone zipper applicators can be positioned behind existing VFFS machines and relocated as production needs change. The approach minimizes retraining, reduces implementation costs, and can extend the life of existing packaging assets.
Many units also feature sanitary stainless-steel construction and food-safe designs suitable for food processing environments.
Which Zipper Type is Best for You?
Transverse Zipper
Strong shelf appeal
Laminate or poly films
Pre-Applied Zipper
Minimal machine mods
Ideal for smaller products
Zipper Tape
Run LDPE materials
Differentiated package design
Zipper Applicator
Need zipper quickly
Maximize equipment ROI
Explore Reclosable Packaging for Your VFFS Line
Talk with one of our zipper experts to identify the best reclosable solution for your operation.
