[Article]: What Are Multihead Weighers? Uses, Benefits, and How They Work

In modern food packaging and production lines, speed and accuracy are crucial. One of the most efficient technologies used for fast and precise product weighing is the multihead weigher. These machines are essential in sectors where portioning and consistent weight control are vital. But what exactly is a multihead weigher, and how does it work?

What Is a Multihead Weigher?

A multihead weigher, also known as a combination weigher, is an advanced weighing system that uses multiple weighing heads (typically 10 to 32) to determine the most accurate combination of weights that meet a target weight. It is especially effective for packaging irregular or granular products such as snacks, frozen food, candy, dried fruits, and pet food.

How Does a Multihead Weigher Work?

Each weighing head contains a load cell that measures a small portion of the product. When the weigher receives a command to release a specific amount (e.g., 100 grams), it calculates all possible combinations of weights from different heads and selects the one that comes closest to the target weight — within tolerance limits — in milliseconds.

The typical process includes:

1. Product is fed into the top of the weigher via a central dispersion feeder (usually vibrating).
2. The product is distributed into the weigh hoppers.
3. Each head measures the weight of its portion.
4. The system calculates the best combination closest to the desired weight.
5. The selected combination is released into the packaging machine below.

Applications of Multihead Weighers

Multihead weighers are widely used in the following industries:

• Food industry: Snacks, nuts, pasta, frozen vegetables, candies, cereals, dried fruits
• Fresh produce: Cherry tomatoes, grapes, salad mixes
• Meat and fish: Small cuts or frozen portions
• Pet food: Kibbles and treats
• Non-food items: Screws, bolts, hardware kits, small electronic components

Benefits of Multihead Weighers

• High Speed: Capable of up to 120 weighments per minute or more, depending on the model
• Excellent Accuracy: Reduces giveaway, improving profitability
• Versatility: Handles sticky, fragile, dry, wet, or granular products
• Automation-Friendly: Integrates with VFFS (Vertical Form Fill Seal), tray sealers, or other packaging systems
• Labor Reduction: Replaces manual weighing with consistent and faster operation

Types of Multihead Weighers

There are different types of multihead weighers adapted to specific products:

• Standard multihead weighers: For dry, free-flowing products
• Sticky product weighers: Specially coated parts and timing hoppers to handle moist or clumping products
• Mix weighers: Can weigh and combine two or more ingredients into a single package
• High-speed models: Optimized for fast production lines with dual discharge systems

Conclusion

Multihead weighers are a critical asset in modern packaging environments that demand high throughput and accuracy. By dramatically increasing weighing efficiency and reducing waste, they provide a strong return on investment for manufacturers in the food and non-food sectors.

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