Features At A Glance
The output of the net set machine depends on multiple factors, including equipment model, degree of automation, production materials, operational efficiency, and production environment. Here are some key points and common ranges that affect yield:
1. Equipment type and degree of automation
Manual/semi-automatic mesh machine
The output is relatively low, usually around 50-200 pieces per hour (such as fruit netting, packaging lining, etc.), relying on manual operation speed.
Fully automatic mesh machine :
High speed models can reach over 800-3000 units per hour, depending on the design (such as rotary or assembly line).
EPE foam net machines can be customized according to customers' requirements.
The EPE Foam Fruit Net Machine is a specialized single-screw extrusion line that produces continuous, tubular expanded polyethylene (EPE) foam net sleeves for delicate agricultural and consumer products. By physically foaming LDPE resin with butane or CO₂ and extruding the melt through a high-speed rotary circular die, this EPE foam fruit net machine turns low-cost plastic pellets into lightweight, elastic, shock-absorbing mesh that gently grips apples, pears, peaches, citrus, mangoes, melons, rose buds, and even glassware. For fruit farms, packing houses, and packaging converters in Egypt, Nigeria, India, Vietnam, Thailand, Mexico, and Chile, the EPE foam fruit net machine is the standard route to replace expensive pre-bought sleeves with in-house, custom-sized foam nets.
How the EPE Foam Fruit Net Machine Works
Auto feeding – LDPE pellets + talc + glyceryl monostearate blended and conveyed into the hopper.
Plasticizing & foaming – Single screw (usually φ65–φ90 mm, L/D 55:1) melts the mix; a high-pressure metering pump injects liquid butane as blowing agent.
Rotary die forming – Foamed melt exits the annular die rotating at controlled speed, forming a spiral tubular mesh that expands 10–40× in volume.
Cooling & shaping – Air + water cooling stabilizes the cell structure and locks the net diameter.
Haul-off, cutting & winding – Inverter-driven puller draws the net at 10–60 m/min; meter counter and automatic cutter deliver fixed-length sleeves or rolls.
Typical Specifications (φ75 Model Reference)
Raw material: LDPE + talc + GMS + butane (physical foaming, no CFC)
Screw diameter / L:D: φ75 mm / 55:1 (38CrMoAlA nitrided)
Output: 25–50 kg/h (≈ 700–1,200 kg / 24 h)
Foam density: 20–30 kg/m³
Net diameter: 10–150 mm (by die insert)
Mesh count: 10–40 strands
Line speed: 10–60 m/min
Cooling: wind + water
Installed power: 28–56 kW
Layout: ≈ 11–13 m × 1.3 m × 1.8 m
When selecting fruits for packaging with a knotless net machine, the primary consideration is the delicate balance between protection and breathability. A knotless net machine produces seamless, continuous netting without protruding knots, which minimizes surface abrasion and pressure points on soft-skinned produce. This makes it particularly suited for fruits that require gentle handling and consistent airflow to prevent premature ripening or decay.
One of the best candidates for a knotless net machine is apples. Their firm yet sensitive skin can be easily bruised by traditional knotted nets, but the smooth, uniform structure of knotless netting distributes weight evenly, reducing impact damage during transport. Similarly, pears benefit from this technology because their thin, tender peel is prone to blemishes; the knotless design prevents indentations that could lead to spoilage.
Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits also pair well with knotless net machines. While they have thicker rinds, their high juice content makes them vulnerable to compression bruises. The elastic, knot-free mesh allows these fruits to breathe while maintaining shape integrity. For stone fruits such as peaches, plums, and nectarines, the soft flesh and delicate fuzz demand extra care. A knotless net machine creates a cushioning layer that reduces friction, keeping these fruits intact and market-ready.
Grapes are another excellent match. Their clusters require netting that conforms to irregular shapes without crushing individual berries. The knotless net machine produces flexible tubing that gently envelops each bunch, preventing the stems from piercing the fruit. Berries like strawberries and blueberries, though smaller, also thrive in knotless netting because the absence of knots eliminates sharp edges that could puncture their fragile skins.
In contrast, hard-skinned fruits such as coconuts or pineapples may not need the precision of a knotless net machine, as they can withstand rougher handling. However, for premium, bruise-sensitive varieties-especially those destined for long-distance shipping-the knotless net machine remains the optimal choice. By combining durability with gentleness, it ensures that fruits arrive fresh, attractive, and free from the marks that reduce shelf appeal. Whether for apples, citrus, or delicate berries, investing in a knotless net machine translates directly into lower waste and higher customer satisfaction.
