Interpack 2026 is recognised globally as the leading exhibition for packaging and processing technologies. First held in 1958 and organised by Messe Düsseldorf, the event brings together the full packaging value chain, spanning materials, processing equipment, automation, and finished packaging solutions.

Held every three years, Interpack attracts thousands of visitors from the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, printing and industrial manufacturing sectors.

For Secomak, Interpack 2026 provides the ideal platform to showcase proven industrial drying solutions, demonstrate new developments, and engage directly with manufacturers experiencing drying challenges on their production lines, as well as with OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) and end users.

Why Industrial Drying Matters in Packaging and Processing

Drying is a critical process step in many manufacturing environments, particularly where containers and packaging are exposed to water, steam, or cleaning processes. Residual moisture can cause significant downstream issues, including:

• Poor label adhesion
• Unreliable date coding and traceability
• Inaccurate check weighing
• Damage to secondary packaging
• Reduced line efficiency and unplanned downtime
• Product quality issues

Despite this, drying is often under-engineered or treated as an afterthought. At Interpack 2026, Secomak will demonstrate how targeted container drying systems can improve reliability, efficiency, and overall process performance.

DryGuide Essential: Efficient Container Drying in Action

A central feature of Secomak’s stand will be a showcase of the DryGuide Essential, one of the latest additions to the our drying product range.

Designed to deliver effective results using controlled airflow, the DryGuide Essential provides reliable drying without unnecessary system complexity. During the exhibition,  the machine will be setup for drying on both pouches and cans, allowing visitors to see how the same drying technology adapts for different packaging formats to suit their production line.

Drying Solutions Designed Around Production Needs

Interpack attracts manufacturers from a wide range of sectors, each with different production challenges. Drying requirements for flexible packaging are very different from those for PET bottles, cans, or rigid containers.

Rather than offering standardised systems, We designs application-specific industrial drying solutions, taking into account:

• Packaging format and material
• Line speed and throughput
• Available space and layout
• Upstream and downstream processes
• customers specific requirements

This approach allows us to support every industry professional attending the show with a drying solution that fits their process.

Interpack 2026 Sectors and Drying Applications

Interpack covers a broad range of industries, including food, beverage, confectionery, bakery, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, non-food, printing and industrial manufacturing. Across all of these sectors, drying plays a vital role.

Beverage Container Drying

The beverage sector remains the largest application area for Secomak systems and has been central to the company’s activity since 1980. High-speed beverage lines require reliable drying equipment, particularly after rinsing, filling or pasteurisation.

In many applications, a lack of effective drying causes downstream issues such as shrink sleeve application failures, poor adhesion of pressure-sensitive labels (PSL), stress corrosion, and wider line performance problems.

Secomak’s beverage drying solutions support a wide range of containers, Including cans, glass bottles, and PET bottles of all sizes, across the production of:

• Carbonated soft drinks

• Bottled and flavoured water

• Beer, cider, and alcoholic beverages

• Juices and functional drinks

In these manufacturing environments, consistent container drying is essential for clear coding, accurate traceability, and stable line operation.

Secomak also provides glass bottle pre-heating solutions (PreHeat IR) to reduce thermal shock. By gradually warming bottles before processing, these systems help prevent glass breakage and the downstream process issues it can create.

Case Study: BrewDog 2022 New canning line – Drying Machines, Gas Boosters, Fans Blowers and Heaters – Secomak Hertfordshire

Food Industry Drying Solutions

In food manufacturing, pouch drying is increasingly important, particularly following retorting or sterilisation processes. These stages often leave significant surface moisture on packaging, which must be removed before further handling.

Key reasons for effective food pouch drying include:

• Ensuring reliable labelling and date coding
• Protecting secondary packaging and reducing waste
• Improving check weighing accuracy
• Reduce the potential for bacterial growth in difficult-to-access areas such as gussets.

Effective drying helps keep food production lines running efficiently and consistently.

Case Study: MARS – Drying Machines, Gas Boosters, Fans Blowers and Heaters – Secomak Hertfordshire

Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Drying

Pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturers require precise moisture control throughout the manufacturing process. In addition to drying outer packaging, Secomak supports specialist applications within these sectors, including the internal drying of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) using our HeatPack system.

These solutions help reduce drying times, improve process consistency, and minimise manual intervention, making them well suited to controlled and well regulated environments.

Case Study:

Efficient Drying of IBCs at GSK with Secomak’s 9kW HeatPack – Drying Machines, Gas Boosters, Fans Blowers and Heaters – Secomak Hertfordshire

Bakery and Industrial Manufacturing

Beyond packaging, Secomak has many years of experience supplying blowers for blow-off applications in bakeries and across a wide range of industrial manufacturing environments. In bakeries, these systems are commonly used to remove excess ingredients from products, helping to reduce waste and maintain consistent yields. They are also used to clean conveyors, lowering the risk of cross-contamination further along the production line.

In addition, they support surface drying and reliable process air supply, enabling manufacturers to maintain smooth, efficient operation on their production lines.

Supporting Customers Beyond the Drying Equipment

Secomak’s involvement at Interpack goes beyond equipment display. The exhibition provides an opportunity to discuss how customers are supported throughout the full project lifecycle, including:

• Early-stage concept development
• System testing and validation
• Installation support and commissioning
• Ongoing technical assistance

The focus is always on delivering practical solutions that work on real production lines.

Visit Secomak at Interpack 2026 Hall 11, Stand D74-02

Drying is a fundamental process that supports product quality, safety, and smooth operation across many industries. If you are having issues with wet containers on your production line, Interpack 2026 is a perfect opportunity to discuss your application directly with our technical team.

Stay Connected

Follow SECOMAK LINKEDIN PROFILE for:

• Interpack stand updates and previews
• Live content from the exhibition floor

To arrange a face-to-face consultation or product demonstration during the show, contact Secomak in advance and reserve time with the team.

Email: Sales@secomak.com 

Phone: +44 (0) 2087 321 300

Secomak is proud to present the Industrial HeatPack for consideration in the PPMA Automate Awards for Innovative Processing System, a category that celebrates engineering excellence in enhancing productivity, improving safety, and driving cost savings.

With more than 95 years of expertise in blower and heater technology, we have brought together two of our core innovations into one intelligent solution. The Industrial HeatPack is a powerful and adaptable hot air system designed with both efficiency and ergonomics. Setting a new benchmark for performance across a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, aerospace, food and beverage, manufacturing and defence.

Innovation Through Intelligent Integration

At its core, the HeatPack incorporates Secomak’s direct-drive centrifugal fan, developed specifically for hot air recirculation. This design enables the fan to withstand inlet temperatures exceeding 200°C while delivering consistent airflow and thermal performance. By recirculating  hot air the system significantly reduces energy consumption, requiring less power to maintain high operating temperatures. This translates into significantly lower running costs without compromising throughput.

Our advanced heater design ensures rapid heat-up and precise thermal control, achieving outlet temperatures of up to 400°C. When paired with solid-state relay controls, the HeatPack delivers temperature accuracy within ±1%, guaranteeing product integrity and consistent processing even in the most demanding applications.

Demonstrating this innovation a bespoke HeatPack was designed for an aerospace customer in the United States specialising in rocket propulsion. Their challenge was to reduce thermal heat-up times for large copper components used in thrust chamber welding. The HeatPack was engineered to recirculate air at temperatures of up to 300°C while operating reliably without supervision.

To support their workflow, our controls engineer programmed the system for remote activation at 3am. By the time the shift began at 8am, the components were pre-heated and ready for immediate welding. The stand-off motor design ensured the fan, motor, and heater assembly could withstand the extreme recirculation temperatures without damage, delivering both reliability and performance in a highly critical environment.

Performance Made Portable

The HeatPack is designed to be production-ready from the moment it arrives. Its portable trolley system and quick-connect power supply make it simple to move across production lines, offering an ideal solution for sites that require heat processing in multiple locations.

With power ranges from 1kW to 36kW, every HeatPack can be tailored to specific customer requirements. Blower sizing and heater configuration are optimised to deliver the best performance for each unique application.

Case Study: GlaxoSmithKline

GlaxoSmithKline approached us with a clear objective: reduce operational overheads while increasing productivity. The solution came through two compact HeatPacks.

The application, while straightforward in appearance, required precision and expertise. During pill manufacturing, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are filled with raw powder and transferred to the mixing room. Once the powders are mixed and decanted, the IBCs must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before reuse.

Previously, this drying was done by hand, often limiting the team to just twelve IBCs in a single shift. With the introduction of the HeatPack, drying time was cut to only five minutes per container, boosting productivity by ten fold.

For a site the size of GSK, portability was also crucial. The HeatPacks we supplied were built on portable trolleys with lockable castor wheels, allowing effortless movement between factory sections without the need for lifting equipment. The result was a safe, mobile solution that combined ease of transport with reliable, stable operation.

Smart Control, Smarter Results

One of the most exciting recent innovations is the new HMI (Human Machine Interface) control panel, a fully integrated touch-screen system that puts the operator in complete control.

Key HMI features include:

• Simple temperature setpoint control
• Live trend lines of actual vs. target temperature
• Customisable high/low temperature alarms (local or remote via BMS)
• Blower speed control
• Real-time power consumption monitoring
• Energy savings metrics via recirculation feedback

This smart control system delivers an intuitive and intelligent user experience, promoting not only ease of use but better process decisions and reduced operator error.

Advanced Cryogenic Heatpacks for Extreme Conditions

This year we delivered two cryogenic Heatpacks to a military aerospace customer. These machines can switch seamlessly between hot air at 180 °C and freezing temperatures down to -60 °C using liquid nitrogen. This was a completely new challenge for Secomak and our team embraced it fully.

Our design engineers worked closely with material and component suppliers to make sure every part could handle these extreme temperatures. Once the mechanical design was finalised the focus shifted to controls. Safety and precision were of paramount importance. Real-time heat trend monitoring, emergency alarms and careful temperature regulation were all implemented to ensure reliable operation.

The HMI was designed to be clear and intuitive allowing operators to monitor processes in real time. Supporting this, twenty thermocouples continuously provide temperature feedback and each one can act as the master to maintain safety and control. The Heatpack demonstrates Secomak’s ability to deliver precise engineering, dependable controls, and full operational safety.

Proven Impact and Industry Validation

Customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting:
• Unmatched ease of use
• Reliable and consistent hot air delivery
• Immediate operability with minimal setup

In real-world applications, customers have reported faster heat-up times, more consistent processing, and improved energy efficiency. These benefits translate into measurable improvements in productivity and significant cost savings across a range of industries.

Real-World Validation

Proving the effectiveness of the HeatPack is often straightforward, as we have highlighted throughout this article. One compelling example comes from a wheat processing plant that has relied on a Secomak HeatPack for decades to dry their pipes and ducting following Clean-In-Place (CIP) procedures.

Downtime at this facility is a critical concern, with the drying process for ducting and pipes traditionally taking up to 13 hours. With production losses estimated at £500 per hour, the plant sought our help to accelerate this process.

During a trial period, the HeatPack reduced drying time to under one hour—a saving of up to 12 hours per cleaning cycle. Considering the plant sometimes performs CIP up to five times a week, the resulting cost savings and return on investment are substantial, demonstrating the tangible value our HeatPack.

Conclusion: A Step Change in Heat Processing

The Secomak Industrial HeatPack represents a genuine leap forward in thermal processing. By combining our long-standing expertise in airflow and heating technology with modern controls and innovative design, we have created a flexible, intelligent, and sustainable solution that meets the industry’s growing demand for precision, portability, and energy efficiency.

When you consider all the key features of the Secomak HeatPack range, it is clear why our customers rely on it so consistently. Across the industries we serve, end users trust the HeatPack to improve their processes and achieve better results every time.

Whether the goal is to improve output, reduce operational costs, or enhance system control, the HeatPack is already delivering measurable value across multiple industries. This makes it a strong contender for the PPMA Award for Innovative Processing System.

1. Introduction: Where Innovation Meets the Beverage Industry

Every four years, the global beverage and liquid food industry converges at Drinktec, held at Messe München in Munich, Germany. With over 70,000 attendees from more than 170 countries, this event is widely regarded as the world’s most influential trade fair for beverage and liquid food technology.

Drinktec isn’t only about showcasing equipment; it’s a launchpad for innovation, where processing, packaging, automation, and marketing intersect. From startups disrupting packaging formats to global brands unveiling the next generation of smart bottling lines, this is where the future of food and drink manufacturing is shaped.

In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about Drinktec:

• What makes it the industry’s flagship event
• Who attends, and why it matters
• Key exhibitor categories and what to expect
• Why Secomak’s technology,  especially in drying machines, is part of the solution mix
• And what you can look forward to at Drinktec 2025
  

If you’re in beverage production, packaging innovation, or liquid food processing, this is one event that should be on your radar.

2. What Is Drinktec? A Global Stage for Beverage & Liquid Food Innovation

First held in 1951 and organised by Messe München, Drinktec has grown into the most prestigious event in the beverage and liquid food processing calendar. It’s where the entire value chain, from ingredients to intelligent packaging, comes together under one roof.

Held every four years in Munich, the event attracts a highly specialised audience of engineers, production managers, R&D professionals, buyers, and decision-makers. Refining a bottling line, sourcing sustainable packaging, or integrating smart factory solutions, Drinktec is the global platform to discover, compare, and invest in new technology.

Key Focus Areas of Drinktec

Drinktec covers a broad scope of solutions tailored to the changing needs of the industry:

• Processing & Filling Machinery – From mixers and pasteurisers to high-speed bottling lines
• Packaging Technologies – Including flexible pouch systems, shrink-sleeve labelling, and carton forming
• Ingredients & Additives – Showcasing flavours, colourants, preservatives, concentrates, and nutrient fortifiers
• Smart Factory & Automation – Featuring robotics, line control systems, predictive maintenance, and AI-driven inspection
• Marketing & Labelling – With innovations in digital printing, traceability, and sustainable branding solutions

Who Attends Drinktec?

Drinktec attracts a global audience with:

• Over 70,000 visitors from 170+ countries
• Thousands of companies, ranging from multinational brands to disruptive start-ups
• Delegations from sectors including beer, soft drinks, juice, dairy, wine, spirits, and functional foods

Secomak’s Role at Drinktec

As the demand for energy-efficient, high-speed, post-fill drying solutions grows, Secomak’s market leading washing and drying systems designed to address customers’ pain points play a critical role in supporting clean and efficient production environments.

Drying retorted pouches, PET bottles, or aluminium cans, systems like the DryGuide Essential offer a reliable way to ensure surfaces are label- and code-ready immediately after sterilisation or washing.

3. Who Exhibits at Drinktec? A Cross-Section of Global Industry Leaders

Drinktec brings together the most comprehensive mix of suppliers, manufacturers, and innovators from across the beverage and liquid food ecosystem. Whether you’re looking for turnkey production lines or pioneering ingredient technologies, the exhibition floor reflects the full supply chain, and then some.

Here’s a breakdown of the major exhibitor categories and what they bring to the table:

1. Machinery & Equipment Manufacturers

At the core of Drinktec are engineering

solutions that drive productivity, safety, and innovation.

Exhibitors include specialists in:

• Filling, sealing, and capping machines
• Labelling systems and shrink-sleeve technology
• Drying machinery, such as Secomak’s market leading, energy-efficient solutions
• Robotics for palletising, depalletising, and pick-and-place applications
• End-of-line solutions for high-volume packaging environments

Secomak is proud to showcase it

s high-performance industrial drying machines for food and drink, supporting post-fill hygiene and speed on modern production lines.

2. Ingredient & Raw Material Suppliers

Drinktec is also home to leading suppliers of:

• Natural flavours and colourants
• Nutritional additives and concentrates
• Functional ingredients for energy drinks, dairy alternatives, and fortified beverages
• Processing aids and stabilisers

These exhibitors enable innovation in taste, health claims, and shelf life.

3. Packaging & Labelling Providers

With sustainability and shelf appeal becoming ever more important, this group focuses on:

• Recyclable and biodegradable packaging
• Flexible pouches and DOY packs
• Smart labelling technologies with QR, NFC, or RFID integration
• Printing and digital branding systems

4. IT & Digital Process Solutions

Smart factories start here. These exhibitors provide:

• AI-driven quality control systems
• Real-time data and traceability software
• IoT-enabled line monitoring and predictive maintenance tools
• Workflow optimisation platforms for global supply chains

5. Startups & Disruptive Innovators

The innovation corner of Drinktec includes:

• Early-stage companies pioneering low-carbon production
• New dispensing technologies
• Consumer-centric smart packaging formats
• Modular plant equipment for smaller, agile facilities

The diverse range of exhibitors makes Drinktec a must-attend event for anyone upgrading a factory, sourcing new packaging, or rethinking a product line.

4. What Makes Drinktec Unique? Global Scale, Groundbreaking Innovation, and Industry Connection

Drinktec isn’t just another trade show; it’s a global innovation hub where the beverage and liquid food sectors set their direction for the future. From unveiling cutting-edge bottling technology to hosting strategic discussions on sustainability and digitisation, Drinktec delivers far more than product showcases.

Here’s what sets Drinktec apart:

Unmatched International Scope

• Attracting professionals from over 170 countries, Drinktec offers one of the most diverse, high-quality audiences in any B2B manufacturing event.
• Visitors range from senior engineers and plant managers to innovation leads and procurement teams from global beverage brands.

This international profile ensures that exhibitors gain not only visibility but also global market reach.

Technology Launchpad

Many of the industry’s biggest announcements happen right here. Leading suppliers regularly choose Drinktec to:

• Launch new product lines
• Unveil prototypes or upgrades to high-speed filling, packaging, or drying systems
• Demonstrate AI-driven innovations for quality control, energy monitoring, and predictive maintenance

If you’re aiming to stay ahead of the curve, Drinktec is the place to track emerging trends and technology first-hand.

Comprehensive Coverage of the Production Lifecycle

Unlike smaller, niche expos, Drinktec covers the entire beverage lifecycle:

• Ingredient sourcing
• Mixing and processing
• Filling, packaging, and capping
• Post-fill drying and coding
• Warehouse automation and logistics
• Consumer experience and sustainability

This holistic approach makes it

invaluable for cross-functional teams, including packaging engineers, as well as leaders from R&D, marketing, operations, and quality assurance.

Executive-Level Networking and Learning

Drinktec provides world-class educational opportunities, including:

• Executive roundtables on industry challenges and market dynamics
• Innovation stages with live tech demos and product walkthroughs
• Future-focused talks on carbon reduction, digital transformation, and circular packaging

It’s more than a trade show — it’s a forum for strategic conversation and long-term planning.

5. Why Should You Attend or Exhibit at Drinktec? Opportunities for Every Role in the Beverage Supply Chain

Whether you’re a global manufacturer, a tech innovator, or a procurement specialist, Drinktec offers real commercial value. Beyond the displays and demos, this is where partnerships are built, technologies are benchmarked, and real-world decisions are made.

Here’s why thousands of busines

ses and professionals make the trip to Munich:

For Buyers: First-Hand Access to Global Innovation

• See and compare technologies side by side, from filling machines and bottling lines to advanced drying systems like Secomak’s DryGuide Essential.
• Assess solutions in live demonstrations before making capital investment decisions
• Connect directly with manufacturers and distributors. No middlemen, no guesswork
• Benchmark supplier performance, sustainability credentials, and maintenance requirements

Drinktec saves time and cost in the long run by centralising your research and supplier engagement.

For Exhibitors & Equipment Manufacturers: Showcase to a Targeted Audience

• Launch new products and collect real-time feedback
• Generate highly qualified leads from international buyers and engineers
• Forge new distribution partnerships across Europe, Asia, and the Americas
• Position your brand as a category leader by participating in technical presentations, live demos, or panel discussions

For brands like Secomak, Drinktec offers more than visibility. It’s a chance to engage directly with engineers and decision-makers driving major production changes.

For Startups & Innovators: Accelerate Market Entry

• Meet venture capitalists, innovation teams, and supply chain leaders in one place
• Gain visibility among key players in beverage manufacturing, packaging, and retail
• Validate new concepts and refine your go-to-market strategy based on direct feedback

If you’re introducing sustainable packaging, smart dispensers, or clean-in-place automation, there’s no better testing ground than Drinktec.

6. Secomak at Drinktec: Engineering Better Drying for Beverage & Liquid Food Production

As a long-standing innovator in drying technology, Secomak is proud to return to Drinktec, showcasing how our solutions support cleaner, faster, and more efficient beverage packaging operations.

What We’re Showcasing

At Drinktec, Secomak will be showcasing the latest in high-performance post-fill drying, including:

• The DryGuide Essential: A compact, energy-efficient drying machine designed for high-speed lines — ideal for pouches, bottles, and cans
• Non-contact drying systems: Remove surface moisture while protecting sensitive labels and films
• Modular drying units: Built to integrate seamlessly into tight production spaces or retrofit existing lines
• A working conveyor loop: Demonstrating our latest innovations in drying performance and hygiene within a live production-style setup

📍 Find us in Hall B4, Stand 530 — shown on the floorplan below.

Follow our LinkedIn Page for behind-the-scenes updates, product highlights, and videos live from the show.

These solutions are trusted across beverage categories, including ready-to-drink juices, plant-based milks, sauces and soft drinks, and meet the hygiene standards of food and pharmaceutical production.

Our experts will also be on hand to offer:

• Line audits and energy-saving assessments
• Support with retrofitting or replacing legacy equipment
• Guidance on achieving consistent drying for downstream labelling and coding

Our Legacy at Drinktec

Secomak has attended multiple Drinktec cycles, each time connecting with industry professionals seeking reliability, sustainability, and long-term value. Previous shows have led to:

• Global supply agreements
• OEM integrations
• Direct end-user installations in beverage plants across Europe

Whether you’re scaling up production or modernising an existing line, we’re here to support your drying requirements, backed by 90+ years of engineering experience.

Stay Connected

Follow Secomak on LinkedIn for:

• Stand updates and build previews
• Live videos from the exhibition floor
• Technical insights and customer stories from Drinktec 2025

Want to schedule a face-to-face consultation or product demo? Contact Secomak now, and we’ll reserve time at the show for you.

7. Conclusion: Why Drinktec Should Be on Every Beverage Manufacturer’s Radar

In an industry defined by fast-moving innovation and rising consumer expectations, Drinktec stands out as the premier event where technology meets transformation.

From processing and packaging to automation and ingredient science, the show gives beverage and liquid food professionals a unique opportunity to:

• Explore new solutions for efficiency and sustainability
• Connect with suppliers and innovators from across the globe
• Benchmark technologies that can future-proof their production lines
• Experience industry-first launches from leaders like Secomak

For manufacturers, bottlers, R&D teams, and plant engineers, this is not just a trade show. It’s where meaningful change starts.

What’s Next?

Register interest for Drinktec to stay informed and plan your visit

Follow Secomak on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes updates and show-day insights
Contact Secomak to schedule a one-on-one discussion or demo at the exhibition

We’ll see you in Munich.

1. Introduction: Why the UK Remains a Leader in Packaging & Processing

The UK has long been recognised as a global centre for manufacturing excellence, particularly in processing and packaging technology. With strong roots in engineering, automation, and innovation, UK companies continue to set benchmarks for efficiency, safety, and sustainability across various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and personal care.

At the heart of this innovation landscape is the PPMA Total Show, the UK’s flagship event for processing and packaging machinery. Held every three years at the NEC Birmingham, it brings together the very best in automation, robotics, materials handling, and packaging design.

As the most comprehensive event of its kind in the country, the PPMA Total Show is more than a trade fair; it’s a launchpad for new technologies, a hub for business connections, and a barometer for where the industry is heading.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• What the PPMA Total Show is and why it matters
• Who exhibits and the sectors they serve
• What makes the event a standout on the UK manufacturing calendar
• Why businesses, from startups to multinationals, should attend or exhibit
• And how Secomak will be contributing to this year’s event

Planning to upgrade your packaging line, invest in smarter automation, or launching new products? This is the go to event for forward-thinking manufacturers.

2. What Is the PPMA Total Show? The UK’s Flagship Processing & Packaging Event

The PPMA Total Show is the UK’s most expansive and influential trade fair for processing and packaging machinery. Held every three years, unlike the annual PPMA Show, it brings together three major exhibitions into one comprehensive event:

• PPMA Show – Focused on machinery for packaging and processing
• Pakex – Centred on packaging materials, containers, and technologies
• Interphex – Dedicated to pharmaceutical and biotech manufacturing solutions

Together, these co-located exhibitions create a 360-degree view of the UK manufacturing ecosystem, from primary production to end-of-line automation.

Who Organises It?

The event is run by the Processing and Packaging Machinery Association (PPMA), an industry body established in 1988 to support UK-based and international manufacturers of automation equipment and processing technology.

What You’ll See at the PPMA Total Show

Spanning multiple halls at the NEC Birmingham, the PPMA Total Show covers a wide array of sectors and technologies, including:

• Packaging Machinery – Filling, sealing, capping, and shrink-wrapping systems
• Automation & Robotics – Including cobots, inspection systems, and smart control interfaces
• Materials Handling – Conveying, weighing, palletising, and sorting
• Digital Integration – Line monitoring, traceability software, and Industry 4.0 solutions

Serving a range of industries, including:

• Food and Beverage
• Pharmaceuticals and Biotech
• Personal Care and Cosmetics
• Household and Cleaning Products

This year’s event promises a greater number of exhibitors, cutting-edge innovations, and more actionable insights than ever before, all under one roof.

3. Who Exhibits at the PPMA Total Show? An Industry-Wide Showcase of Innovation

One of the most valuable aspects of the PPMA Total Show is its wide range of exhibitors, covering every facet of the production, packaging, and automation processes. From complete turnkey systems to individual components for upgrading existing lines, this event brings together leading global suppliers and agile UK-based innovators.

Core Exhibitor Categories

These are the exhibitors you can expect to see at the show:

1. Machinery Manufacturers

Exhibitors support everything from small batch operations to large-scale continuous production lines.

• Filling, capping, and sealing machinery
• Flow wrapping and shrink-wrapping solutions
• Labelling and coding systems
• Palletising and end-of-line equipment

2. Automation and Robotics Specialists

Automation companies are increasingly showcasing Industry 4.0-ready solutions, designed to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and increase data visibility.

• AI-powered inspection systems
• Vision-guided robotics and collaborative robots (cobots)
• Smart control panels and SCADA software
• Integrated production line automation

3. Packaging Designers and Material Suppliers

From recyclable plastics to custom-printed flexible films, packaging design companies are responding to the growing demand for sustainability. ,including innovations in:

• Sustainable packaging
• Smart labelling
• Tamper-proof and resealable pouches

4. OEM Component and Systems Providers

Critical components, such as sensors, valves, drives, and enclosures, are all on display, essential for engineers looking to repair, upgrade, or retrofit.

5. Turnkey Solution Providers

Looking for a fully integrated system? Several exhibitors specialise in end-to-end line design and implementation, delivering everything from initial concept to final commissioning.

With a mix of established global leaders and high-performance niche innovators, the PPMA Total Show stands out as a dynamic marketplace for cutting-edge production solutions.

4. What Makes the PPMA Total Show Stand Out?

In a crowded landscape of trade events, the PPMA Total Show distinguishes itself through depth, relevance, and accessibility. It’s not just another machinery exhibition, it offers a comprehensive view of  the entire production lifecycle, framed by UK industry expertise and resonating with a global audience.

1. UK-Focused, Internationally Connected

While it champions British manufacturing excellence, the show welcomes exhibitors and buyers from across Europe and beyond. This blend of local expertise and global insight creates an ideal space for sourcing, networking, and benchmarking.

2. Full Production Line Coverage

Unlike events with a narrow niche, the PPMA Total Show spans:

• Primary processing equipment
• Packaging machinery and systems
• Inspection, labelling, and traceability solutions
• Automation, robotics, and digital technologies

This makes it uniquely positioned to serve everyone from plant managers and engineers to packaging designers and procurement leads.

3. High-Value Networking

The event attracts a senior-level audience, including:

• Operations and production directors
• Procurement and purchasing managers
• R&D and technical engineers
• C-suite executives from manufacturing and supply chain firms

Face-to-face meetings with key decision-makers provide genuine opportunities to establish partnerships, discuss projects, and gain hands-on experience with new technologies.

4. Education Built In

The show features a packed programme of:

• Free-to-attend seminars and expert panels
• Live equipment demonstrations
• Discussions on industry-critical topics like sustainability, AI integration, and smart factories

This makes it just as valuable for strategic learning as it is for sourcing.

5. Easy to Attend

• Free registration for all trade visitors
• Held at the NEC Birmingham, a major UK venue with excellent road, rail, and airport links
• Central location for domestic and international visitors

5. Why Should You Attend or Exhibit at the PPMA Total Show?

From buyers upgrading production lines to tech suppliers launching innovations and startups breaking into the market, the PPMA Total Show delivers unmatched value.

For Manufacturers & Plant Operators

• Discover the Latest Machinery: From high-speed pouch dryers to intelligent inspection systems, the show is a one-stop shop for exploring innovations that can improve production output and reduce downtime.
• Evaluate Automation Upgrades: Compare integrated robotic solutions, software platforms, and retrofitting options side by side to determine the best fit for your needs.
• Meet Engineering Specialists: Engage directly with technical reps and consultants who can advise on process optimisation or equipment customisation.

For Technology Providers & OEMs

• Showcase Solutions in Action: Demonstrate your machinery or system capabilities to a targeted audience actively seeking upgrades.
• Generate Quality Leads: The PPMA Total Show is attended by procurement professionals, site engineers, and senior buyers looking for viable vendors.
• Build Market Awareness: Present yourself alongside industry leaders and grow your visibility in the UK and European markets.

For Startups & Innovators

• Cost-Effective Market Entry: Exhibit in a space designed to welcome emerging technologies and new brands.
• Test Concepts in Real Time: Gain valuable feedback from qualified visitors, industry veterans, and potential investors.
• Form Strategic Partnerships: Whether you’re developing sustainable packaging or IoT solutions, the PPMA network opens doors to new opportunities.

For Buyers, Distributors & Consultants

• Compare Equipment Live: Get hands-on with machines, view demos, and assess build quality and functionality first-hand.
• Negotiate Face-to-Face: Finalise deals or initiate conversations directly with manufacturers, involving fewer middlemen.
• Understand Emerging Trends: The show offers a macro view of where packaging and processing are heading in the UK.

No matter your role in the manufacturing supply chain, attending the PPMA Total Show can accelerate decision-making, improve operations, and forge long-term commercial relationships.

6. Secomak’s Attendance at the PPMA Total Show

As a trusted UK manufacturer with over 90 years of engineering excellence, Secomak will be returning to the PPMA Total Show to demonstrate our latest innovations in drying technology.

Where to Find Us

Our stand location is E82. Check the Secomak Events Page, PPMA for updates or follow us on LinkedIn for real-time announcements.

We’ll be based in one of the show’s high-traffic demonstration zones, ideally placed for live product walk-throughs and expert-led consultations.

What We’re Showcasing

At this year’s PPMA Total Show, we’re bringing live demonstrations of our most in-demand products, including the DryGuide Essential system and an innovative conveyor

cleaning solution. All of our drying technologies will also be accessible via our interactive 3D showroom.

We’ll also provide hands-on advice on:

• Custom drying and heating system integration
• Retrofitting Secomak units to existing lines
• Energy efficiency strategies to reduce running costs

Our Track Record at PPMA

Secomak has been a regular exhibitor at PPMA for over a decade. In previous shows, we’ve connected with hundreds of engineers, plant managers, and procurement teams, many of whom went on to become long-term customers.

We’re proud to say our stand consistently attracts high-quality conversations, real project enquiries, and strong post-show engagement.

“Secomak’s live demos were a highlight of the show. Their team really understands what manufacturers need.”

Production Manager, Food Packaging Firm (previous PPMA attendee)

Stay connected by following us on LinkedIn for pre-show behind-the-scenes content, stand previews, and live updates during the event.

7. Conclusion: Innovation, Connection & Opportunity at PPMA

The PPMA Total Show isn’t just a date in the calendar, it’s the UK’s flagship stage for processing and packaging innovation. For manufacturers, engineers, and technology providers, it offers a rare opportunity to step out of the day-to-day and engage with the people, tools, and ideas shaping the industry’s future.

As the sector continues to evolve toward greater automation, energy efficiency, and system integration, events like PPMA are where decisions are made, trends are defined, and relationships are built.

Secomak’s presence at the show reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering solutions that make a real impact.

Next Steps

Register for the PPMA Total Show. It’s free and only takes a minute.
Contact Secomak to schedule a demo or meeting at the show.
Visit the Secomak Events Page – PPMA for updates, product previews, and resources.
Follow Secomak on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes access, booth setup content, and highlights from the event.

Whether you’re upgrading your line, sourcing automation, or just exploring what’s possible, we’ll see you at the NEC.

Installing a gas booster isn’t just a matter of connecting pipework and flicking a switch. In manufacturing environments where precision, safety, and compliance are non-negotiable, getting the installation and commissioning process right is essential.

This guide takes you through every stage of a successful gas booster installation, from pre-install checks to commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting. We’ll walk through best practices, legal requirements, and common mistakes to avoid, making certain your system is standard-compliant.

Click Here:  Essential Guide to a Gas Booster Installation in Modern Manufacturing – Gas Boosters by Secomak

From ready meals to personal care and pharmaceuticals, flexible pouches are the packaging of choice across multiple sectors. But drying these pouches after filling and sealing is far more complex than it looks. Excess moisture can cause labelling errors, contamination risks, and costly downstream issues, especially on fast, automated lines.

That’s where Secomak comes in. Building on insights shared in Episode 1: Introduction to Pouch Drying, this article explores the biggest challenges facing manufacturers and how our industrial pouch dryer solves them. From drying solutions for packaging pouches to solutions for drying gussets and DOY packs, we engineer with precision, hygiene, and performance in mind.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes pouch drying challenging and how Secomak delivers the solution.

1. Introduction: Why Pouch Drying is More Complex Than It Seems

In Episode 1, we explored the unique challenges of drying flexible packaging. Unlike rigid containers, stand-up and DOY pouches often retain moisture in folds, gussets, or under spouts, areas that are hard to reach with traditional drying systems.

This isn’t just a cosmetic issue for food, beverage, pet food, and pharmaceutical manufacturers. Wet packs can attract bacteria, compromise hygiene, delay labelling, and trigger rework or rejection at the next stage of the line. Add to that the need for mass flow pouch drying at high speeds, and you begin to see the true scale of the challenge.

This article breaks down the most common pain points in pouch drying and explains exactly how the Secomak Pouch Dryer is designed to overcome them, delivering consistent performance, food-grade hygiene, and scalable integration across automated and manual production environments.

2. Challenge 1: Lightweight Packs That Get Dislodged

Lightweight flexible packaging, such as DOY pouches and sachets, presents a unique challenge when exposed to high-velocity air during drying. These packs are designed to be economical and easy to handle but their lightweight nature makes them prone to movement, tipping, or misalignment on the production line.

This issue is particularly acute when using conventional air drying methods or systems not specifically tailored for flexible packaging. The force needed to dry the surface, especially around gussets or spouts at higher line speeds, can easily dislodge a poorly secured pouch. Not only does this reduce drying efficiency, but it also leads to inconsistent results, production downtime, or even product damage.

Secomak’s Solution: The Hold-Down Conveyor

The Secomak pouch dryer has a robust Hold-Down Conveyor designed specifically to address this challenge. This feature gently but firmly secures each pouch in position as it passes through the drying chamber. Regardless of pouch shape or fill level, every pack remains in the correct orientation as it enters the machine, centred and stable throughout the drying process.

• Maintains precise orientation: Essential for achieving consistent, all-surface drying. This is especially critical for downstream operations like labelling, sleeving, and packing.
• Prevents line disruptions: By eliminating unwanted movement, manufacturers benefit from smoother mass flow pouch drying, less intervention, and increased throughput.
• Ideal for automation: Engineered to integrate seamlessly into high-speed, fully automated lines, ensuring system reliability and continuity without manual correction.

This design not only improves drying performance but also supports smoother downstream integration, reducing rework, preventing line stoppages, and enabling continuous high-volume operation.

3. Challenge 2: Drying Complex Shapes and Gussets

Not all pouches are created equal. While standard flat packs offer minimal drying resistance, modern formats like gusseted pouches, DOY pouches, and stand-up packs with spouts or contours introduce significant complexity. These designs are ideal for shelf presence and consumer convenience, but they are notoriously difficult to dry effectively from a production standpoint.

Moisture becomes trapped in creases, folds, and gussets, especially in areas where the pouch flares outward or where layers of material overlap. Even high-speed lines that appear dry on the surface can leave hidden pockets of moisture that compromise labelling, create hygiene risks, or affect the product’s visual finish. This can’t be left to chance for industries that must meet strict hygiene regulations, such as food, pet food, and pharmaceuticals.

Secomak’s Solution: All-Surface Drying Technology

To meet this challenge, Secomak developed All-Surface Drying Technology, a modular system of high-performance air knives for packaging pouches. Unlike traditional drying systems that apply air in broad, untargeted strokes, this technology delivers precise, high-velocity air directly where it’s needed most.

• Customisable air knife positioning: Each industrial pouch dryer is configured to match the pack shape, whether a gusseted DOY pouch or a spouted stand-up pack.
• Targeted airflow: Penetrates into gussets, folds, and under caps or seals, removing trapped moisture that other systems miss.
• Reduced rework and downtime: By making sure each pouch exits the dryer fully dry, manufacturers can avoid costly relabelling, rejections, or packaging jams.

This technology is particularly valuable when drying flexible packaging at high volumes and speeds. With a drying solution that adapts to your pack, rather than forcing your pack to adapt to the machine, Secomak ensures reliable results without compromising hygiene, speed, or quality.

Whether drying DOY pouches or complex multi-layer designs, All-Surface Drying ensures that every face, gusset, and edge is accounted for.

4. Challenge 3: High Operational Costs of Compressed Air

Compressed air has long been the go-to method for drying packaging on high-speed lines, but it comes at a price. These systems are notoriously expensive to run, consuming large amounts of energy while generating excessive heat and noise. For manufacturers under pressure to reduce operational costs and meet sustainability targets, this is a growing concern.

The inefficiency of compressed air also raises questions about long-term reliability. Leaks are common, maintenance is high, and energy bills continue to climb, especially in operations requiring 24/7 uptime. For many, the cost of running compressed air dryers outweighs the benefits, particularly when drying flexible packaging like lightweight pouches that require delicate yet effective handling.

Secomak’s Solution: Centrifugal Blower Technology

Secomak eliminates the need for compressed air by using powerful, precision-engineered centrifugal blowers to drive its pouch drying systems. These blowers deliver high-velocity air in a controlled, energy-efficient stream, providing all the drying power you need without the associated costs.

• Energy-efficient performance: A Secomak blower can reduce energy usage by up to 90% compared to a compressed air equivalent.
• Quiet operation: Unlike compressed air systems that generate excessive noise, centrifugal blowers are significantly quieter, improving the factory environment.
• Reliable and low maintenance: With fewer moving parts and no air leaks to contend with, these blowers reduce downtime and ongoing servicing.

These benefits are made possible by the same fans and blowers technology trusted across Secomak’s industrial drying range. It’s a future-proof approach for manufacturers who want the best of both worlds: high-speed performance and lower operational impact.

By removing compressed air from the equation, Secomak’s pouch drying solutions offer not just better performance but real financial and environmental returns over the long term.

This significantly reduces electricity consumption, cuts maintenance costs, and eliminates the inefficiencies of compressed air. The consequence is a rapid ROI in a relatively short timeframe for most customers. Beyond that, the long-term operational savings continue to compound, making Secomak’s solution not just a technical upgrade, but a smart financial decision for forward-thinking manufacturers.

5. Challenge 4: Hygiene & Moisture Control

In regulated industries like food, beverage, pet food, and pharmaceuticals, hygiene isn’t just a preference. It’s a non-negotiable requirement. Any residual moisture on packaging can introduce risks, from microbial growth and contamination to label failure and slippage on automated lines.

These risks aren’t theoretical. According to the UK Food & Drink Federation and FDA guidelines for packaging hygiene, moisture can compromise packaging integrity, endanger shelf life, and potentially lead to costly recalls or rework.

When dealing with pouch formats, particularly gusseted, stand-up, or DOY pouches, moisture accumulates in creases, around spouts, and under the pack. If not addressed effectively, this creates an ongoing hygiene concern that undermines quality control and operational efficiency.

Secomak’s Solution: Hygienic Design Features

Secomak’s pouch dryer has been designed from the ground up with hygiene in mind. Every component, from the conveyor to the air knives, has been engineered to facilitate easy cleaning and prevent water retention.

• Integrated drip tray: Captures excess water during drying to prevent pooling and cross-contamination on the production floor.
• Easy-clean construction: Smooth surfaces and open access points make maintaining hygiene protocols between production runs easy.
• Food-grade materials: Built with stainless steel and hygienic plastics that align with industry standards for safety and cleanliness.

Crucially, the Secomak pouch dryer supports drying DOY pouches and other complex pack types without compromising hygiene outcomes. Whether used in pharma-grade cleanrooms or high-throughput food production facilities, it meets the stringent expectations of global hygiene regulations.

With contamination prevention built into the system’s core, Secomak helps manufacturers reduce cleaning time, improve safety, and stay audit-ready without slowing down production.

6. Challenge 5: Adapting to High-Speed Lines & Automation

Today’s production environments demand more than just drying efficiency. They require systems that can keep pace with high-speed automation, multi-lane packaging, and integrated controls. With flexible pouches increasingly used in mass production, pouch drying systems must match the throughput of filling, sealing, and labelling machines without becoming a bottleneck.

But that’s easier said than done. Many traditional drying systems struggle to maintain consistent results across multiple lanes, particularly when line speeds fluctuate or pouch formats vary. Incompatibility with automated feeding, or the inability to scale with growing production demands, only adds to the challenge.

Secomak’s industrial pouch dryer is purpose-built to support modern, automated environments. Whether running a single-lane, semi-automated line or a fully robotic, multi-lane operation, the system is designed for seamless integration and performance continuity.

• Single & multi-lane formats: Available in configurations that support various line widths, allowing for consistent drying performance across multiple pouch streams.
• Modular construction: Each unit can be adapted or extended to accommodate layout changes, future capacity upgrades, or the addition of new pack formats.
• Extendable conveyors: Supports both upstream and downstream line components. Ideal for synchronising with labellers, checkweighers, or robotic packers.

This flexibility means Secomak’s pouch drying solutions don’t just work with your line today; they’re ready for what comes next. When upgrading existing infrastructure or investing in a new automation project, manufacturers can be confident that the system will scale with their needs.

The introduction of reliable mass flow pouch drying in fast-moving, automated settings allows Secomak to help customers reduce downtime, improve output, and stay competitive in the challenging production sector.

7. Versatility in Feeding Options

Not every production facility runs a fully automated packaging line, at least not yet. Many manufacturers, especially in smaller or highly specialised operations, still rely on semi-automated or even hand-fed systems. Others are transitioning, gradually upgrading towards automation while keeping existing processes running.

In these scenarios, drying technology must be flexible. A system that only functions efficiently with robotic feed lines may alienate a large segment of the industry or introduce unnecessary complexity during upgrades.

Secomak Advantage: Hand-Fed or Fully Automated Compatibility

Secomak understands that one size doesn’t fit all. That’s why the pouch dryer is designed to work equally well in both manual and fully automated environments.

• Hand-fed compatibility: Ideal for artisan brands, R&D labs, or short-run production lines where automation may not yet exist.
• Automation-ready design: Easily integrates with robotic arms, automated conveyors, and control systems, allowing for future upgrades with minimal disruption.
• Low implementation cost: No need to overhaul your line to implement Secomak’s drying solution. It adapts to your current setup, helping you modernise at your own pace.

From drying pouches on a small batch line to handling large-scale stand-up pouch drying in a high-volume plant, Secomak offers a system that fits. That’s not just about convenience; it’s about making a smart investment. You get immediate benefits in drying efficiency and hygiene while staying ready for future expansion.

It’s another reason why Secomak is trusted for dependable, scalable pouch drying solutions across the UK and beyond.

8. Real-World Application: From Wet Packs to Ready-to-Label in Seconds

To see the Secomak pouch dryer in action, look no further than our work with Full Green, a food manufacturer specialising in healthy, ready-to-eat meals in flexible DOY pouches. Like many in the sector, they faced challenges with moisture retention after pouch filling, particularly around gussets and spouts. This excess moisture caused labelling issues, frequent rework, and occasional rejection during quality checks.

After installing Secomak’s drying solution, equipped with air knives for packaging pouches and a gusset dryer configuration, the results were immediate:

• Drying time reduced to under 5 seconds per pouch
• 100% label adhesion rate
• No unplanned downtime related to drying or labelling
• Energy savings of over 75% compared to their previous system

Importantly, the system integrated seamlessly into their existing semi-automated line. The case study provides a full breakdown of the implementation and outcomes.

This real-world scenario shows how Secomak delivers technical excellence and tangible improvements in uptime, quality, and overall efficiency. The benefits of drying flexible packaging in food, pet food, pharma, or other industries are clear and measurable.

9. Why Choose Secomak’s Pouch Dryer Over Alternatives

With so many drying systems on the market, it’s fair to ask: what makes Secomak different?

The answer lies in our approach. The Secomak pouch dryer isn’t a generic machine. It’s a purpose-built solution designed and engineered in the UK to solve the real, day-to-day challenges faced by manufacturers who work with flexible packaging. Every unit is developed with hands-on expertise, rigorously tested, and built to meet the demands of high-speed production, hygiene compliance, and long-term reliability. We provide bespoke solutions according to our customers’ requirements. Our engineers can adapt the design to match these various manufacturing needs.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Built by engineers, for engineers: Designed with practical production needs in mind, from ease of integration to long-term maintainability.
• Trusted across industries: Deployed by leading food and pharmaceutical brands that require consistency, hygiene, and precision.
• UK-manufactured, in-house tested: All systems are built and quality-checked at our UK facility, ensuring each unit performs as promised before it leaves our hands.
• End-to-end support: From initial scoping and installation to after-sales service, you’re backed by a team that understands drying inside out.

From DOY pouches to spouted formats and the shift toward mass flow pouch drying, Secomak delivers reliable pouch drying solutions today, tomorrow, and well into the future.

10. Conclusion: The Right Technology for a Critical Step

Drying may be one of the last stages in your packaging line, but it’s also one of the most important. Done right, it prevents labelling issues, improves hygiene, and ensures your products move smoothly from production to shelf. Done poorly, it can cause costly rework, downtime, and compliance headaches.
Secomak’s pouch drying solutions are engineered to solve these challenges head-on. From stabilising lightweight packs and drying complex gussets to eliminating compressed air costs and meeting strict hygiene standards, the Secomak Pouch Dryer is built for real-world production environments.

Whether you’re drying DOY pouches, spouted formats, or running a stand-up pouch drying line, Secomak delivers consistent results—every time.

Want to learn more? Speak to one of our engineers or explore our case studies to see how others make pouch drying easier, faster, and more efficient with Secomak.

For a personalised quotation tailored specifically to your manufacturing requirements, contact us and we will get in touch with you.

Stay tuned for the next blog post, Episode 3: Hygiene in Pouch Drying, which covers the hygiene challenges and solutions for pouch drying in your packaging system.

Here’s an informative guide to help you understand how to choose not only the correct size of gas booster, but an insight to the overall package type.

How to Choose the Right Secomak Gas Booster for Your Needs

An Introduction to Pouch Drying in Packaging

In the packaging industry, particularly within the food and beverage sectors, the use of flexible pouches has surged due to their consumer convenience and marketing potential. However, after the retorting (cooking) and sterilisation processes, residual moisture often remains on these pouches. This moisture can compromise packaging integrity and product safety, making effective pouch drying crucial.

The Role of Pouches in Modern Food Packaging

Marketing purposes,

• Due to improvements in technology, the printing of flexible pouches makes it easier for brands to stand out and get their brand messages across.
• Especially true of stand-up pouches (DOY Packs), Their vertical presence on the shelf gives the brand a distinct competitive edge.
• A greater surface area on pouches allows for useful information, such as nutrient & health benefits which are becoming Increasingly important in today’s world, as well as ingredient lists and cooking instructions.

Material Technology,

• The durability and reliability of the pouch material make it an ideal container for products that need to be cooked or sterilised after filling. This gives manufacturers confidence that there will be no spillage or wastage during the production process.
• Recent advancements in technology have made it easier for flexible pouches to be recycled and produced using recycled materials, such as RPET, supporting sustainability efforts.

Consumer convenience,

• Their shape and design make them easy to store and use at home with some pouch designs featuring resealable closures.
• They are easy to open, often featuring a predefined tear, allowing for effortless opening without the need for kitchen utensils.
• Many can be cooked directly in the packaging, offering a significant advantage over traditional metal cans for food products.
• Due to cooking & sterilisation process often have long lifespan.

What is Pouch Drying?

Pouch drying is a crucial step in the packaging process, after they have been retorted or sterilised involving a thermal process using steam, a lot of residual liquid remains on these pouches. Pouch drying is used as a method to remove excess moisture or liquid from the surfaces of pouches. This process is vital for a variety of industries, particularly in food and beverage and pharmaceuticals to allow for the next process to occur smoothly.

The Importance of Pouch Drying

• Operational Efficiency: Effective drying prevents water damage to secondary packaging, water left undried could spoil the cardboard packaging, impacting the brands quality and resulting wasted produce.
• Check weighing: An important quality process during production is checking the contents has the correct weight post filling. Whilst this may happen before the retorting process, it often happens after. Wet packs can cause inaccurate weights or impact the check weighers efficiency.
• Health and safety: It’s essential to keep residual moisture contained within the wet environment and prevent it from entering the dry zones, as this can result in slip hazards and potential contamination.
• Enhanced Labelling: Especially in the pharmaceutical industry, dry surfaces are crucial for the proper adhesion of labels on flexible packaging. ensuring batch marking & manufacturing date labels are applied securely.
• Date coding: This will be dependent on the manufacturers process but if choosing to inkjet code after production then it will be vitally important to have dry packaging, and clear printing of codes. Moisture can cause ink to blur, leading to branding and traceability issues.

Challenges in Pouch Drying

Several challenges come with drying flexible pouches, especially when dealing with the unique designs and high-speed production lines typical in modern packaging.

• Complex Designs: Modern pouches come in various configurations, such as stand-up pouches (DOY packs), gusseted, spouted, and lay-flat designs. Each of these presents unique drying challenges, particularly in areas like gussets, where moisture can accumulate. As standard dimensions are becoming more common, there is still a massive variety of packaging options, which can make it challenging to create a “one-size-fits-all” design.
• Coverage of All Surfaces: Unlike in other container drying operations like bottles & cans, usually with pouch drying all surfaces need to be dried at the same time. Therefore, careful consideration is made to the design to ensure this is possible, like how Secomak’s pouch dryer has targeted gusset drying.
• Pack Weights: Unlike other forms of packaging, flexible pouches can be very light. The most economical and effective way of drying containers is with high pressure air. Therefore, the lighter packs can be dislodged, especially when drying the bases of the packs. This is particularly true of high speed & more automated production lines, it can be process critical to ensure that packs exit a pouch dryer in the same orientation that they have entered.
• Production Speeds: High-speed production lines require drying solutions that can keep pace without compromising efficiency. This calls for drying equipment that can handle large volumes of pouches quickly and effectively.
• Hygiene Standards: In food and pharmaceutical applications, drying equipment must adhere to stringent hygiene standards to prevent contamination. Residual moisture can foster bacterial growth. Additionally, it is crucial that the design of a pouch dryer prevents the packs from splitting during the drying process, as this could result in mess and wasted product.
• Manual Processes: Many food production lines still rely on hand-operated processes, such as loading and unloading retorts. The complex shapes of flexible packages make automating these tasks expensive, often requiring robotic arms. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that the pouch dryer design is ergonomically optimised for manual handling.

Innovations in Pouch Drying Solutions

To address these challenges, specialised pouch drying systems have been developed. For example, The Secomak in-house designed Pouch Dryer is engineered to effectively remove surface moisture from all types of flexible pouches. Including those with complex features such as gussets and spouts, through targeted drying. It is also suitable for lighter pouches and is integrated with a built-in hold-down conveyor, ensuring smooth alignment with your process as products don’t become displaced.

 Why Choose Secomak’s Pouch Dryers?

Secomak provide reliable, efficient, and high-performance pouch drying solutions. Our pouch dryer is designed to meet the demanding needs of various industries, offering advanced technology to ensure uniform drying, minimal energy consumption, and consistent performance. Our pouch dryers feature advanced blower-driven technology, eliminating the need for expensive compressed air systems.

Designed with user-friendly interactions in mind, offering an ergonomic build and safety features, including automatic shutoff when the doors are opened. Secomak’s engineers prioritised hygiene and contamination control when designing the pouch dryer, incorporating a drip tray to prevent health and safety concerns within the factory.

Conclusion

Pouch drying is an essential part of the packaging process that ensures product quality and hygiene & safety standards. By investing in purpose developed pouch drying technology, manufacturers can improve production efficiency, product safety, and ensure their products are delivered in the best possible condition.

Secomak’s pouch dryers offer reliable, energy-efficient, and precise drying solutions, helping businesses optimise their packaging process. If you’re looking to improve your packaging operations with high-performance pouch drying equipment, Secomak has the solutions you need.

Contact us today to learn more about how our pouch dryers can benefit your business.

In the next episode, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Secomak pouch dryer and explore how it effectively addresses many of the challenges we’ve discussed.

The Early Years: Fans and Heaters

Our story began in 1930, with the production of industrial fans and heaters, laying a solid foundation for future innovations. By 1952, the company had installed its first drying machine in the Alperton bottling company, setting the stage for expansion into new and exciting areas of technology.

The 1940s: A Crucial Contribution to the War Effort

The 1940s brought new challenges and during World War II, Secomak played a pivotal role in civil defence by designing and manufacturing air raid sirens. The hand-operated Syren Type 447 became an essential tool for protecting communities during air raids, showcasing Secomak’s ability to innovate under pressure.

The 1960s: Expanding into Gas Booster Technology

In 1966, we took a significant step forward by expanding our expertise into gas booster technology. The development of centrifugal gas boosters marked a new era for Secomak, allowing it to raise gas pressure for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. This move not only diversified the product range but also solidified our reputation as a leader in air movement technology. By 1969, the first gas booster was installed and we are still manufacturing them today.

The 1970s: We officially changed our name to Secomak Ltd.

Previously Secomak was a range of products within a large portfolio but with recent expansion and new developments, it felt right for the company to change the name away from Service Electric Company Ltd to Secomak Ltd.

The 1980s: Continued Innovation and Diversification

The 1980s were a period of significant growth and diversification for Secomak. In 1986, We introduced the Thermoshrink, our first purpose built hot-air shrink tunnel for food & beverage production. By 1988, Secomak had developed its first air knife application. A purpose developed solution for removing surface water for the exterior of food packaging during production. This decade also marked the arrival of our longest-serving employee, Darren, who has been with the company for over 40 years

The 1990s and Beyond: Strategic Acquisitions and Technological Advancements

The 1990s marked a time of significant innovation, as Secomak Ltd worked on enhancing its technology and improving the efficiency of its air movement systems. They continued to provide solutions for drying, cooling, and ventilation, which were essential in various industrial applications. Additionally, Secomak Ltd built relationships with global clients and grew its presence in the market.

In 2004, Secomak purchased the business of ON Beck, further expanding its capabilities with a range of compressed air driven products including the Mistral V which is one of the company’s largest sold product.

Management buyout

A management buyout from the Halma Group in 2005 marked a new chapter for the company. Now an independently owned company, a significant turning point in our history and allowed for renewed focus for becoming an air movement specialist. In 2006 we moved from Honeypot Lane to our current home in Elstree, a 10,000 sq/ft purpose-built facility. We also formed a strategic development partnership with the University of Hertfordshire and together created the first design of our revolutionary DryGuide Technology in 2009. The first “PowerGuide” installation was completed in 2012.

Secomak Manufacturing

After being a longstanding supplier Deedmore engineering and Secomak combined to form Secomak manufacturing in 2018. This merger enabled Secomak Ltd to concentrate specifically on precision engineering and component manufacturing, resulting in tailored and dynamic solutions that allowed us to focus on the quality of our products

Celebrating 90 Years of Excellence

In 2020, we celebrated our 90th anniversary, reflecting on a legacy of engineering excellence and adaptability. The company’s journey is marked by countless achievements and milestones, each contributing to its enduring success. From its early days of producing fans and heaters to its role in the war effort and its expansion into gas booster technology, Secomak’s heritage is a story of resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication to excellence.

Recent Developments

In 2021, we developed an in-house design and development area, followed by a rebranding and a new website launch in 2022 in line with its forecasted future. The company launched a brand-new drying machine, the award-winning DryGuide Essential at PPMA in 2024, showcasing its ongoing commitment to innovation.

Looking to the Future

As Secomak looks to the future, Secomak remains committed to pushing the boundaries of air movement technology. With a rich history to build on and a passion for innovation, the company is poised to continue its legacy of excellence for many years to come.