flow wrapping machine Safety Certifications
Flow wrapping machines, integral to various industries for packaging items efficiently, require specific safety certifications to ensure both operator safety and regulatory compliance. Here are key certifications:
1. CE Marking: Indicates compliance with EU safety, health, and environmental requirements. Essential for machines sold within the European Economic Area (EEA).
2. UL Certification: Ensures the machine meets stringent safety standards in the United States and Canada, specifically electrical and fire safety standards.
3. CSA Certification: Issued by the Canadian Standards Association, this certification is crucial for machines operated within Canada and often recognized in the U.S.
4. ISO 13849: Pertains to the safety of machinery, particularly the control systems, ensuring they meet required performance levels for safety functions.
5. ANSI B11.19: Covers performance requirements for risk reduction measures and implementation of safety control systems to safeguard operators.
6. OSHA Compliance: In the U.S., meeting Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards ensures workplace safety and health protection.
7. FDA Compliance: If used in food packaging, machines must comply with U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations for material and process safety.
8. RoHS Compliance: Ensures that the machine or its components do not contain hazardous substances, primarily relevant in the European Union.
Manufacturers must maintain detailed documentation and subject machines to rigorous testing to achieve and uphold these certifications. Regular audits and updates to the machines may also be necessary to keep certifications valid, further ensuring protection against potential hazards.
List Reference Technical Parameters of “flow wrapping machine”
Flow wrapping machines, also known as horizontal form fill seal (HFFS) machines, are versatile packaging machines used across various industries. Here are essential technical parameters typically associated with flow wrapping machines:
1. Film Speed: Indicates the speed at which the packaging film is fed through the machine, typically measured in meters per minute (m/min).
2. Film Specifications: Defines the type, thickness, and width of the packaging film; commonly measured in microns (µm) for thickness and millimeters (mm) for width.
3. Cut-off Length: The length of the film cut to wrap each product, usually adjustable to accommodate different product sizes.
4. Machine Speed: Refers to the number of packages produced per minute (ppm). This parameter indicates the efficiency and throughput of the machine.
5. Sealing Type and Quality: Includes details on the type of sealing (e.g., heat sealing, cold sealing) and parameters like sealing temperature, pressure, and dwell time.
6. Product Dimensions: Specifies the maximum and minimum dimensions (length, width, height) of products that can be wrapped, usually measured in millimeters.
7. Control System: Features an interface for adjusting parameters and monitoring operations, typically utilizing a programmable logic controller (PLC) or a human-machine interface (HMI).
8. Power Supply: Indicates the electrical requirements, such as voltage (e.g., 220V, 380V) and frequency (e.g., 50Hz, 60Hz).
9. Air Consumption: When pneumatic systems are involved, this parameter denotes the amount of compressed air required, often measured in liters per minute (L/min) at a certain pressure (e.g., bar, psi).
10. Dimensions and Weight: Overall machine size (length, width, height) and weight, important for installation and space planning.
11. Construction Material: Information on the materials used in construction, typically stainless steel for food-grade applications to ensure hygiene and durability.
12. Safety Features: Includes emergency stop buttons, protective guarding, and sensors to ensure operator safety.
By understanding these parameters, one can better assess a flow wrapping machine’s suitability for specific packaging needs.
List Product features of “flow wrapping machine”
A flow wrapping machine is designed to package products in a continuous motion, enveloping them in a film to create a sealed package. Here are key product features:
1. Continuous Motion Operation: Speeds up packaging and boosts productivity by maintaining constant machine motion.
2. Versatile Packaging: Capable of handling various product shapes and sizes, from candies to industrial parts, with ease.
3. High-Speed Performance: Can achieve speeds ranging from 60 to over 400 packs per minute, depending on the model.
4. Precision Sealing: Ensures airtight and tamper-evident seals, enhancing product safety and shelf life.
5. Material Compatibility: Works with diverse films including polypropylene, cellophane, and laminates, accommodating different packaging needs.
6. User-Friendly Interface: Touch screen control panels simplify operation, allowing easy adjustments and monitoring.
7. Automated Adjustments: Features auto-corrective systems for film tension and product alignment to minimize downtime and waste.
8. Quick Changeover: Designed for rapid switching between different product sizes or films, increasing machine flexibility.
9. Built-In Diagnostics: Advanced troubleshooting and maintenance alerts aid in reducing operational interruptions.
10. Product Feed Systems: Options for manual or automated feeding systems to suit production line requirements.
11. Integrated Coding: Incorporates printers for batch numbers, dates, and other variable information directly onto the film.
12. Robust Construction: Made from durable materials, typically stainless steel, ensuring longevity and compliance with hygiene standards.
13. Safety Features: Equipped with emergency stop buttons, guarding, and interlocks to protect operators.
14. Energy Efficiency: Designed to consume less power, contributing to cost savings and environmental sustainability.
15. Customizable Options: Tailoring capabilities to meet specific industry requirements and enhance operational efficiency.
These features ensure a reliable, efficient, and versatile packaging solution suitable for a wide range of industries.
List Various Types of “flow wrapping machine”
Flow wrapping machines are versatile packaging solutions used to wrap products in a continuous flow using a single rolled film. Here’s a concise list of various types:
1. Horizontal Flow Wrapping Machines (HFFS)
– Standard Flow Wrapping Machine: Ideal for medium to high-speed packaging of solid products like confectionery, baked goods, and non-food items.
– High-Speed Flow Wrapping Machine: Suitable for high-volume production lines, typically used in the food and beverage industries.
– Shrink Flow Wrapping Machine: Utilizes shrink film to tightly enclose the product, perfect for multipacks and protective packaging.
– Fin Seal Flow Wrapping Machine: Offers extra security with a fin seal along the length of the package, commonly used for snacks.
2. Vertical Flow Wrapping Machines (VFFS)
– Gravity-Fed Flow Wrapping Machine: Good for free-flowing products like grains and powders.
– Auger-Fed Flow Wrapping Machine: Ideal for finer powders requiring precise measurement and packaging.
3. Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) Flow Wrapping Machine
– Extends product shelf life by altering the atmosphere inside the package, commonly used for perishable items like meats and cheeses.
4. Stick Pack Flow Wrapping Machine
– Designed for single-serve, narrow packages filled with products like sugar, coffee, and condiments.
5. Multi-Lane Flow Wrapping Machine
– Offers multiple lanes for wrapping several products simultaneously, enhancing productivity in high-output settings.
6. Tray Sealing Flow Wrapping Machine
– Combines flow wrapping with tray sealing, suitable for ready meals and fresh produce.
Each type is designed to meet specific packaging needs across various industries, enhancing efficiency, protection, and shelf appeal of products.
List Application of “flow wrapping machine”
A flow wrapping machine, also known as a horizontal flow wrapper, is a versatile packaging solution widely used across various industries. Its primary function is to package individual items in a continuous roll of film, creating an airtight seal. Here are some key applications:
1. Food Industry:
– Confectionery: Wrapping chocolates, candies, and chewing gum.
– Bakery Products: Packaging bread, pastries, and cakes.
– Dairy Products: Wrapping cheese blocks, butter, and yogurt packs.
– Snacks: Bagging chips, nuts, and granola bars.
– Frozen Foods: Ensuring safe, airtight packaging for products like ice cream bars and frozen meals.
2. Pharmaceuticals:
– Blister Packs: Wrapping individual blister packs for tablets and capsules.
– Medical Devices: Securing items like syringes and vials.
– Over-The-Counter Products: Packaging health and wellness items such as bandages and medical wipes.
3. Consumer Goods:
– Personal Care Products: Wrapping items like soaps, toothbrushes, and razors.
– Household Items: Packaging cleaning sponges, cloths, and small utensils.
4. Industrial Products:
– Hardware Items: Packaging screws, nuts, bolts, and small spare parts.
– Electronics: Securing small electronic components for safe transit.
5. Agricultural Products:
– Fresh Produce: Wrapping items like fruits, vegetables, and salad mixes.
– Seeds and Grains: Packaging for seeds, grains, and other small agricultural products.
6. Stationery and Office Supplies:
– Pens, Pencils: Individually wrapping writing instruments.
– Notepads and Sticky Notes: Bundle packing for easy resale.
The flow wrapping machine is valued for its efficiency, speed, and ability to maintain product freshness and integrity. Its adaptability makes it an indispensable tool in modern packaging operations.
List Buyer Types of “flow wrapping machine”
The buyers of flow wrapping machines, specialized packaging equipment designed for wrapping products with film, span across various industries. Here are the primary buyer types:
1. Food and Beverage Companies:
– These buyers require flow wrapping machines to package a wide range of food items such as chocolates, candies, baked goods, and snacks. Ensuring product freshness and extending shelf life are critical needs.
2. Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Manufacturers:
– These companies use flow wrapping machines to maintain product hygiene and ensure safe packaging for medical supplies, devices, and over-the-counter medications.
3. Consumer Goods Manufacturers:
– Producers of everyday items like toiletries, kitchenware, and stationery use flow wrapping machines to enhance product presentation and protection.
4. Confectionery Industries:
– Specialized in wrapping sweets, chocolates, and candies, this sector requires machines that can handle various shapes and sizes efficiently.
5. Bakery and Pastry Shops:
– Small to medium bakeries use these machines for wrapping bread, pastries, and snacks to maintain freshness and appeal.
6. Cosmetic Companies:
– These buyers need flow wrapping machines to package personal care items such as soaps, lotions, and makeup products, ensuring they remain uncontaminated and presentable.
7. Electronic Component Manufacturers:
– Electronic parts and components are often delicate and require protective packaging to avoid damage during transportation and storage.
8. Home Improvement Product Manufacturers:
– Companies producing items like screws, nails, and small hardware often use flow wrapping machines to package their products in an organized and customer-friendly way.
9. Tobacco Industry:
– This sector uses flow wrapping machines for packaging cigarettes and other tobacco products in a manner that ensures product integrity and compliance with regulatory requirements.
10. Agricultural and Gardening Products:
– Seeds, bulbs, and other small agricultural products benefit from being flow wrapped to keep them dry and secure.
These diverse buyers seek flow wrapping machines to meet their specific packaging needs, enhance product presentation, ensure safety, and improve efficiency in their production processes.
List “flow wrapping machine” Project Types for Different Industries
Flow wrapping machines are versatile pieces of equipment used across various industries for packaging products efficiently. Here are project types for different industries:
1. Food Industry: Flow wrapping machines are heavily utilized to package items like snacks, bakery products, confectionery, frozen foods, and ready-to-eat meals. They ensure products are hermetically sealed, extending shelf life and maintaining hygiene.
2. Pharmaceutical Industry: In this sector, flow wrappers are used for packaging tablets, capsules, medical devices, and bandages. The machines often feature capabilities to handle sterile packaging and incorporate tamper-evident seals to ensure product safety.
3. Cosmetics and Personal Care: Products such as soaps, lotions, wet wipes, and cosmetics are packaged using flow wrapping machines. These machines help in maintaining aesthetic appeal and ensuring that the products are protected from contamination and leakage.
4. Tobacco Industry: Flow wrappers are employed to package cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products. The machines contribute to maintaining product freshness and providing necessary tamper-evident packaging.
5. Automobile Industry: This includes packaging spare parts, accessories, and hardware tools. Flow wrapping machines protect these items from dust and damage during transportation.
6. Textile Industry: Flow wrap machines are used to package items like socks, underwear, towels, and other textiles. The machines ensure that the packaging is tight, wrinkle-free, and attractive.
7. Stationery and Office Supplies: Items such as pens, pencils, notepads, and staplers are wrapped to keep them organized and free from dust and damage.
8. Electronics: Small gadgets, accessories, and components are flow wrapped to provide protection against static, dust, and potential damage during transit and storage.
In each of these industries, flow wrapping machines enhance packaging efficiency, protect product integrity, and extend shelf life, making them invaluable assets in the production process.
flow wrapping machine Accessories Upgrades and Custom Manufacturing Options
Flow wrapping machines are versatile and efficient solutions for packaging products in a protective film. To enhance their capabilities and adapt them to specific needs, various accessories, upgrades, and custom manufacturing options are available.
Accessories:
1. Feeding Systems: These include automatic feeders, conveyors, and alignment devices to streamline product input and improve efficiency.
2. Printers and Coders: Integrated thermal transfer printers or inkjet coders ensure that date codes, batch numbers, and branding are clearly marked on each package.
3. Film Splicing Units: These minimize downtime during film roll changes by allowing operators to splice a new roll seamlessly, ensuring continuous operation.
4. Product Collators: For products that need to be grouped before wrapping, collators organize items into the required arrangement.
Upgrades:
1. Servo Motors: Replacing traditional mechanical systems with servo motors enhances precision, speed, and flexibility in packaging operations.
2. Robotic Integration: Robots can be integrated for tasks like product loading, unloading, and palletizing, further automating the packaging process.
3. Enhanced Sealing Systems: Options like ultrasonic sealing or high-speed rotary sealers improve the integrity and speed of the sealing process, vital for food and sensitive products.
4. Advanced Control Systems: Touchscreen interfaces and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) make it easier to manage machine settings and monitor performance.
Custom Manufacturing Options:
1. Tailored Machine Sizes: Machines can be customized to accommodate a wide range of product sizes and shapes, from small candies to large bakery items.
2. Specialized Film Types: Custom wrappers can be designed to handle unique film types, whether they are biodegradable, have high barrier properties, or are designed for specific branding needs.
3. Product-Specific Solutions: Machines can be outfitted with special infeed systems, cutting mechanisms, and sealing technologies tailored to the unique requirements of specific products, such as fragile items or irregular shapes.
Investing in these accessories, upgrades, and custom manufacturing options not only maximizes the efficiency and flexibility of flow wrapping machines but also ensures they meet the unique demands of various packaging applications.
List Quality Control and The Manufacturing Process of “flow wrapping machine”
Quality Control in Flow Wrapping Machines
1. Incoming Material Inspection: Verify materials such as films, mechanical parts, and electronic components to meet specified standards.
2. In-Process Inspection: Continuously monitor critical parameters like sealing integrity, cutting accuracy, and product placement during operation.
3. Functional Testing: Perform tests on speed, efficiency, and load-bearing capacity to ensure machine performance matches design specifications.
4. Electrical Testing: Check wiring, sensors, and control systems for faults. Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
5. Final Inspection: Validate finished machines for overall performance, including user interface, safety features, and outputs.
6. Documentation and Traceability: Maintain detailed records for traceability and future quality audits. Use barcodes or RFID for component tracking.
7. Customer Feedback and Service: Incorporate feedback for continuous improvement and provide after-sales support to maintain machine performance.
Manufacturing Process of Flow Wrapping Machine
1. Design and Development: Create blueprints and 3D models. Define specifications such as material types, dimensions, and functional features.
2. Material Sourcing: Procure high-quality metals, plastics, and electronic components from reliable suppliers.
3. Component Manufacturing: Fabricate critical components (e.g., rollers, servo motors) using CNC machining, injection molding, or laser cutting.
4. Assembly: Assemble mechanical parts including feed systems, flow wrappers, and sealing units. Integrate electronic components like sensors and controls.
5. Wiring and Programming: Install electrical circuits and program control systems. Interface Human-Machine Interface (HMI) for user operations.
6. Calibration and Tuning: Calibrate mechanical and electronic components to ensure optimal performance. Test software for bugs and performance issues.
7. Testing and Validation: Run extensive tests to validate machine functionality, from manual and automatic modes to emergency stop functions.
8. Final Quality Inspection: Conduct thorough inspections to ensure compliance with design specifications and regulatory standards.
9. Packaging and Shipment: Securely pack machines, often with protective materials, to prevent damage during transit. Use logistics partners for delivery.
By following these steps strictly, manufacturers ensure the production of reliable and efficient flow wrapping machines, meeting diverse industry requirements.
How to use “flow wrapping machine”
A flow wrapping machine is used to package products efficiently in a continuous motion, creating a sealed package using a film wrap. Here’s a simple guide on how to use it:
Preparation
1. Product Preparation:
– Ensure products are uniform in size.
– Place products on the machine’s infeed conveyor.
2. Loading Film Roll:
– Select appropriate film type and width.
– Load the film roll onto the film unwind section.
3. Film Threading:
– Thread the film through the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
– Ensure the film is properly aligned to avoid skewed packaging.
Machine Setup
1. Parameter Settings:
– Set machine parameters like film tension, conveyor speed, and sealing temperature based on your product and film characteristics.
– Adjust the forming box to match product dimensions.
2. Test Run:
– Conduct a dry run to ensure everything is set correctly.
– Check for proper sealing and alignment.
Operation
1. Start Machine:
– Turn on the machine and begin the flow wrapping process.
2. Monitor:
– Continuously monitor the operation for any issues like film jams or misfeeds.
– Make adjustments as necessary.
3. Quality Check:
– Regularly inspect finished packages for consistency, proper sealing, and appearance.
Maintenance
1. Routine Cleaning:
– Clean the machine regularly to prevent film buildup and ensure hygiene, especially for food products.
2. Lubrication:
– Lubricate moving parts as per the user manual to maintain smooth operation.
3. Inspection:
– Periodically inspect the machine for wear and tear and replace worn-out components.
By following these steps, you can effectively use a flow wrapping machine to ensure efficient and high-quality packaging. Always refer to the specific machine’s user manual for detailed instructions and safety guidelines.
“flow wrapping machine” Comparative Analysis
Flow wrapping machines, integral to packaging industries, offer a variety of features. Their performance, efficiency, and application suitability vary significantly among different models.
Type of Machines:
Common types include horizontal and vertical flow wrappers. Horizontal machines are optimal for regularly-shaped items, while vertical wrappers excel at containing loose items.
Speed and Efficiency:
Machines like Bosch’s Pack 403 claim speeds of up to 800 packages per minute, making them suitable for large-scale operations. In contrast, lower-end machines such as the WeighPack VS Bagger offer around 150 packages per minute, more suited for smaller businesses.
Versatility:
Higher-end models like the Ilapak Carrera 5000 boast adaptability, handling a wide range of product sizes and formats without extensive reconfiguration. Simplistic machines might require manual adjustments, leading to decreased productivity.
Material Capability:
Advanced machines compatible with various packaging materials, including recyclable and biodegradable films, align with contemporary sustainability trends. Less sophisticated models may only handle traditional plastic films.
User Interface and Control Systems:
Premium models often feature intuitive touchscreens and IoT integration for real-time monitoring, like the Syntegon Pack 401. Budget-friendly options may provide basic interfaces, requiring skilled operators.
Cost:
High-performance flow wrappers such as the ULMA TFS 700 can surpass $100,000, justified by their speed, versatility, and automation level. Entry-level models like the PAC Flow Wrapper start around $15,000, reflecting their limited capabilities.
Maintenance and Support:
Top-tier machines typically come with comprehensive maintenance plans and extended warranties, crucial for minimizing downtime. Economical choices might lack extensive support, translating to higher long-term operational costs.
Conclusion:
Selecting a flow wrapping machine hinges on specific operational requirements, balancing factors like speed, versatility, material options, and overall cost-benefit. High-end models deliver unmatched efficiency for large operators, while more basic models serve smaller enterprises or niche applications effectively.
“flow wrapping machine” Warranty and Support
Warranty and Support for Flow Wrapping Machine
Our state-of-the-art flow wrapping machines are built to provide reliable and efficient packaging solutions. To ensure your investment remains in optimum working condition, we offer comprehensive warranty and support services.
Warranty Coverage:
Each new flow wrapping machine comes with a standard 12-month warranty from the date of installation. This warranty includes:
1. Parts and Labor: Coverage for repair or replacement of defective parts and labor costs associated with such issues.
2. Technical Support: Access to our technical support team for troubleshooting and resolving operational problems.
3. Service Visits: If necessary, we offer on-site service visits by our qualified technicians within the warranty period.
Please note that the warranty excludes:
– Damage due to misuse, negligence, or improper installation.
– Consumable items such as belts, blades, and sensors unless they prove to be defective in material or workmanship.
– Any modifications or repairs conducted by unauthorized personnel.
Extended Warranty:
We offer an extended warranty plan for additional peace of mind beyond the initial 12 months. This plan can be tailored to your needs and includes routine maintenance checks and priority support.
Support Services:
1. 24/7 Helpline: Our customer service helpline is available around the clock to provide immediate assistance and guidance.
2. Remote Diagnostics: Our advanced machines are equipped with remote diagnostic capabilities, allowing prompt identification and resolution of issues.
3. Training Programs: We offer comprehensive training for your staff to ensure they are proficient in operating and maintaining the machine.
Spare Parts and Maintenance:
To minimize downtime, we maintain a stock of genuine spare parts and provide detailed maintenance schedules. Regular maintenance by our skilled technicians can be arranged on a contractual basis to ensure durability and peak performance.
For any inquiries or to discuss custom warranty and support packages, please contact our customer support team. Your satisfaction and the reliable performance of your flow wrapping machine are our top priorities.
List “flow wrapping machine” FAQ
Sure, here’s a succinct list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) regarding flow wrapping machines:
1. What is a flow wrapping machine?
A flow wrapping machine is a type of packaging equipment used to wrap products in a continuous roll of film, creating a tight, secure, and protective seal around the product.
2. How does a flow wrapping machine work?
The machine unwinds film from a roll and forms it into a tube around the product. The product is then sealed at the ends and cut to length, producing individually wrapped items.
3. What types of products can be wrapped?
A flow wrapping machine can handle a wide variety of products including food (chocolates, biscuits, fresh produce), pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial goods.
4. What materials can be used for wrapping?
Flow wrapping machines can work with various materials, including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and laminated films, depending on the product requirements and packaging needs.
5. What are the key benefits of using a flow wrapping machine?
Benefits include high-speed packaging, consistent and secure sealing, enhanced product protection, and extended shelf life. They also reduce the need for manual labor and increase efficiency.
6. Are flow wrapping machines easy to operate?
Modern flow wrapping machines often come with user-friendly interfaces and automated features, making them relatively easy to operate and maintain. Operator training may still be required.
7. What are the maintenance requirements?
Regular maintenance involves cleaning, lubrication, inspection of sealing elements, and ensuring that the cutting mechanisms are sharp. Periodic maintenance schedules help prevent breakdowns and extend the machine’s life.
8. Can the machine handle different product sizes?
Yes, many flow wrapping machines are adjustable and can handle various product sizes with quick changeover features.
9. What is the typical speed of a flow wrapping machine?
The speed can vary, but many machines can package anywhere from 30 to 600 products per minute, depending on the model and product type.
10. How to choose the right flow wrapping machine?
Consider the type of product, required speed, film material, and machine versatility. Consulting with manufacturers and reviewing technical specifications can also help make the right decision.
These answers should provide a basic understanding of flow wrapping machines for anyone considering their use.
Top 10 FAQ with answer about flow wrapping machine for Buyer Sourcing from China
Sure, here are the top 10 frequently asked questions (FAQ) about sourcing flow wrapping machines from China, along with their concise answers:
1. What is a flow wrapping machine?
A flow wrapping machine is a packaging device that automates the wrapping of products in a continuous plastic or foil film, forming a tight and protective seal around the items.
2. Why source flow wrapping machines from China?
China is a major manufacturing hub with competitive pricing, advanced technology, and a wide range of suppliers, providing cost-effective solutions for flow wrapping machines.
3. What is the typical lead time for delivery?
The lead time can vary; typically, it ranges from 30 to 60 days, depending on the machine specifications and customization requirements.
4. What should I consider when choosing a supplier?
Consider the supplier’s experience, certifications (such as CE, ISO), customer reviews, after-sales support, and the quality of the machines they offer.
5. Are there language barriers when communicating with Chinese suppliers?
Many Chinese suppliers have English-speaking sales representatives. However, using clear and simple language or employing translation services can enhance communication.
6. What are the shipping options available?
Common shipping methods include sea freight (most cost-effective for bulky items), air freight (faster but more expensive), and express couriers like DHL, FedEx for smaller shipments.
7. How to ensure the quality of the machines?
Request detailed product specifications, videos, certifications, and, if possible, arrange for a third-party inspection or visit the factory in China to assess the quality firsthand.
8. What is the warranty period offered?
Most suppliers offer a warranty period ranging from 1 to 2 years, covering key components and offering technical support during this time.
9. Can the machines be customized?
Yes, Chinese suppliers often offer customization options to cater to specific packaging needs, such as size, speed, and additional features.
10. What are the payment terms?
Common payment terms include a 30% deposit upon order confirmation and the balance before shipment. Some suppliers may offer letter of credit (L/C) or other negotiated terms depending on the order scale and buyer credibility.
These answers should help streamline the sourcing process for flow wrapping machines from China.
