You load the tray and push the mould in, and the machine runs the sealing cycle automatically. It seals a film lid onto the tray and winds the film on for you. It's faster and more consistent than a manual sealer, and much cheaper than a fully automatic line.

With a manual tray sealer, you run the whole sealing process yourself. Semi-automatic machines take over the sealing cycle for you. You load the tray and push the mould in, and the machine seals it and winds the film on. You can set the sealing time (0 to 10 seconds on our Valko models), so every pack is sealed the same way.

Manual sealers cost less and suit smaller volumes such as delis, butchers and small kitchens. Semi-automatic sealers are faster and more consistent, so they suit regular daily volumes and small food production. Some semi-automatic models also offer gas flushing (GF) for a longer shelf life.

Both have an automatic sealing cycle and an adjustable sealing time of 0 to 10 seconds. Pneumatic models need a compressed air supply, and the listings state the compressor isn't included. Electric models plug into a standard 230V supply.

GF models have food-grade gas injection, so trays can be gas flushed for modified atmosphere packaging and a longer shelf life. Choose a GF model if shelf life matters. Models without GF seal trays without gas.

Most of our semi-automatic tray sealers can achieve a profile cut. The machine seals the film onto your tray and trims it to the tray's shape in one action. That gives you a neat, retail-ready pack with no film to trim by hand, and less film wasted.

Each machine is custom built for your tray, so the process is:

1. Samples: Provide 50 to 100 samples of the tray you intend to use
2. Confirmation: We confirm your requirements. We agree the right machine for your product and volumes
3. Custom Build: We send your samples to Valko, the Italian manufacturer, who builds your mould and machine to fit your tray.
4. Testing: VALKO tests the machine thoroughly with your samples and custom mould.
5. Delivery to us: The finished machine, complete with your custom mould, arrives at our warehouse.
6. Delivery to you: Our technician contacts you to arrange a delivery date that suits you.
7. Training: We provide full training when the machine is delivered.
8. Support: We will provide ongoing support to your business to help you get the most out of your new machine.