Pasted Valve Stepped End (PVSE) Vs. Pasted Valve Flush Cut (PVFC)
There are two primary styles of pasted valve bags: Pasted Valve Stepped End (PVSE) and Pasted Valve Flush Cut (PVFC). The key difference between these designs is the construction of the bag ends and if the bag requires a poly liner, as well as the method used to seal the top and bottom during manufacturing.
Both styles are designed for efficient filling through a valve opening and can be used on the same filling equipment, allowing manufacturers to switch between bag styles without significant equipment modifications.
PVSE (Pasted Valve Stepped End) – In a PVSE bag, the paper plies are cut at staggered lengths, creating a stepped end construction that increases the available bonding surface for adhesives and does not have a poly liner. This enhanced seal helps minimize product sifting, making PVSE bags particularly well-suited for fine powders and other sift-prone materials. PVSE bags typically do not require end patches and generally offer a sifting resistance.
Advantages include:
- Greater burst strength
- Better drop resistance
- Improved seal integrity
- Preferred for heavy-duty industrial products
Typical applications:
- Cement
- Mortar
- Gypsum
- Industrial minerals
- Chemicals
PVFC (Pasted Valve Flush Cut) – In a PVFC bag, all paper plies are cut to the same length, creating a flush edge across the top and bottom of the bag before the ends are folded and sealed. End patches are applied to reinforce the closure and maintain package integrity. PVFC bags can provide more reliable performance for many applications.
Advantages include:
- Smoother appearance
- Better printing and visibility on the retail market shelf
- If combined with a sonic seal valve it will be picked up by the machine better
- Exceptional performance for many products
Typical applications:
- Flour
- Animal feed
- Fertilizer
- Food ingredients
- Chemicals
Which Should You Choose?
PVSE bags are often the preferred choice when:
- Packaging heavier products, typically in the 25–50 kg (55–110 lb) range
- Handling fine powders or materials that are susceptible to sifting
- Operating high-speed filling lines where bag integrity is critical
- Products will be exposed to demanding distribution environments, including rough handling, extended transportation, or export shipments
PVFC bags are often the preferred choice when:
- Packaging products that place fewer demands on bag performance and durability
- Standard bag strength is sufficient to meet handling, storage, and transportation requirements
- Retail shelf brand visibility is important
- The bag construction requires a poly liner
For industries such as cement and building materials, PVSE is generally the considered construction because the stepped end provides better mechanical strength and improved resistance to leakage. PVFC is the preferred method when brand visibility is necessary and WVTR is important.