With the tightening of global plastic restrictions, many packaging companies are planning to replace traditional BOPP plastic tape with biodegradable tape (such as PLA or cellulose-based tapes). However, before placing an order, one of the most frequently asked questions by production line managers is: "Can I use my existing case sealer directly, or do I need to invest heavily in equipment modifications?"
In most cases, no equipment replacement is needed, but minor adjustments are required.
The short answer is: they are compatible, but it depends on the type of tape substrate.
Currently, the mainstream biodegradable tapes are mainly divided into two categories, and their requirements for case sealer blades are quite different:
A. Cellulose/PLA Tape:
This type of tape looks and feels very similar to ordinary plastic tape.
Compatibility: Extremely high. Existing serrated standard blades (Chrome Steel or High-carbon Steel) can usually cut directly.
Note: Due to the different elongation at break of bioplastics compared to traditional PP, "stringing" may occur if the blade is worn dull.
B. Kraft Paper Tape
Compatibility: Moderate.
Note: Paper fibers wear down blades faster than plastics. If your carton sealing machine handles high-strength fiber paper tape for extended periods, it is recommended to upgrade the standard blade to a titanium-coated blade to extend maintenance intervals.
Why does "cutting" become a problem?
There are differences in the performance of ordinary tape and biodegradable tape at the moment of cutting:
Tensile Strength:
Biodegradable tape (especially PLA-based) typically has a higher modulus, meaning it doesn't stretch as violently as PP tape before breaking.
Blade Adhesion:
Certain bio-based adhesives, such as natural rubber, may be more prone to residue than synthetic rubbers due to the heat produced during high-speed cutting. Incomplete cuts may result from adhesive accumulation on the blade.
Three Useful Tips for Improving Your Automatic Carton Sealing Device
It is not necessary to replace the entire machine if you choose to convert to a biodegradable solution. Just take these actions to maximize:
Modify the Tension Control:
Compared to plastics, biodegradable substrates are typically less durable. The tape may split at the edges due to unequal stress prior to cutting if the sealing machine's tension is too high. A 10%–15% reduction in tension is advised.
Automate Blade Cleaning:
To avoid residual adhesive buildup that can result in "tape biting," it is advised to place a basic brush or cleaning sponge close to the blade holder and periodically spray a tiny amount of non-stick spray. This is because natural rubber adhesive softens more readily when heated.
Verify the Cutting Angle:
Make sure that the blade is at the 90° angle that the manufacturer recommends, perpendicular to the ground. A sharp cutting angle can quickly cut the fibers of paper-based biodegradable tape, preventing burrs.
How to Test Your Equipment?
Before large-scale switching, we recommend conducting the following three-step stress test:
Static Test:
Manually pull the carton sealer head and observe whether the cut is smooth.
Continuous Test:
Seal 50 cartons consecutively and check for obvious glue residue on the blade.
Extreme Environment Test:
Test in a high-temperature warehouse environment (approximately 35°C or higher) to ensure that the bio-adhesive does not become too viscous due to temperature rise, affecting cutting speed.
Biodegradable tapes can be seamlessly integrated into existing automated packaging lines.
Although they differ slightly in physical properties from traditional plastics, with simple tension adjustment and routine blade maintenance, you can achieve a green packaging transformation without increasing hardware investment.
