Many people want to know more about our table top diefold wrapper, the TTDF, since is it a unique machine with specific applications for confectionery and food entrepreneurs yet small enough to sit on a table in a home kitchen.
how the TTDF does folds
Can the table top diefold wrapper wrap multiple products?
The TTDF can only wrap one size on a machine. So if the multiple products are all the same size, the TTDF can wrap them. If they are different sizes, then you need a machine for each size.
What are the minimum product dimensions for the TTDF?
In our experience, smaller than 1x1x0.5 inches does not wrap and seal well.
What are the maximum product dimensions?
The largest product the TTDF has wrapped is a 3 inch square brownie. We can design a machine for larger sizes. The larger the product, the larger the machine.
How important is it that the product dimensions be accurate?
Given the way the table top die fold wrapper functions, it is very important that the side dimensions not vary by more than 5%. The height dimension can have slightly more variation but the greater the variation the less attractive the wrap may appear on the bottom where all the folds come together.
Why is the price so high?
Each TTDF is customized for the specific customer application. That means that, unlike a car which is built repeatedly, the TTDF has significant variations from machine to machine based on the size and wrapping material requirements of the product it is destined to wrap. We build the TTDF is several sizes to accommodate different sizes of product.
Why do you ask so many questions about our product?
We ask questions because we know from past experience that many people who go from hand wrapping are unaware of the issues around automating the wrapping process. For instance, consistent cutting of the product, so that it has the same side dimensions every time, is critical for automating to diefold wrapping but may go unnoticed when wrapping by hand. How firm the product is can also have an impact. We sometimes recommend chilling the product so that it is firm when it is cut to the agreed upon dimensions and therefore meets those dimensional expectations.
Why do you ask about branding?
Packaging is an important part of product branding and not one you want to change lightly since it is what consumers look for if they come back to buy again. The packaging speaks to your brand and we want to make sure that you have thought it all through and are comfortable with your packaging.
While we view the TTDF as an entry level machine, it may be the first expensive or customized machine your buy for your business. It has to meet your expectations.
Can I use registered or printed wrapping material?
Yes, you can. You will need to find a film converter to print to your specifications but we can provide you with a film layout so you can determine where you want your art work to be. If you don’t know a film converter, we may be able to help you find one.
What is the difference in kinds of films?
Cellophane is the original folding film. Many people still say cellophane when they mean polypropylene film, which is the most commonly used today. Today cellophane is more expensive but still available. See this link on films. It explains some options. Polypropylene can also be printed on and is heat sealable. Either one is acceptable for wrapping on the table top diefold wrapper. Foil has also been used on the TTDF. If you choose paper, you need to find a way to seal the folds with a label or glue.
Is the seal on a TTDF a hermetic or complete seal?
The seal the TTDF provides is not a complete barrier seal. It will extend shelf life but not as much as a gas-flush equipped flow wrapper. In fact, for some applications that have lots of whole grains or nuts ,we recommend flow wrapping instead of diefold wrapping.