How to Use an Infused Pre-Roll Machine for Maximum Output
Want to boost your infused pre-roll production? The key lies in mastering your infused pre-roll machine. Optimizing its use isn't just about speed; it's about precision, consistency, and minimizing waste for maximum output and profit.
In this article, we will explore every nook and cranny of using an infused pre-roll machine, from understanding the basics to ensuring you produce top-quality infused pre-rolls at scale, as well as learning the dos and don'ts of such operations.
Understanding and Setting Up the Infused Pre-Roll Machine
An infused pre-roll machine automates the process of infusing cannabis pre-rolls with extracts, making production faster and more consistent. These machines work by combining ground cannabis flower with a precise dose of extract—be it distillate, live resin, rosin, or sauce—in one continuous process. The result is a product that not only meets strict quality standards but also offers higher potency, thanks to even infusion throughout the roll.
Using an automated system instead of relying on manual labour has many benefits. First, it speeds up production drastically, allowing you to meet high demand without the chaos of manual processes.
Second, it ensures that every pre-roll has an accurate dose, eliminating the guesswork and potential inconsistencies of human error.
Finally, automated infusion minimises material waste, as the precise control system reduces spillage and overuse of expensive extracts.
According to StratCann Since infused pre-rolls began to hit the Canadian market late last year, they’ve been gaining popularity among consumers and producers alike. [1]
Types of Infused Pre-Roll Machines & How They Work
Infused pre-roll machines come in various forms, each employing a different method of infusion to achieve that perfect balance of flower and extract. Let’s take a closer look:
Needle Infusion (Direct Injection):
This method uses a fine needle to inject the extract directly into the pre-roll. It ensures pinpoint accuracy but demands careful calibration to avoid over-infusing.Dipping Method (Coating the Pre-Roll):
Here, the pre-roll is dipped into a reservoir of extract. This is a simpler method but can lead to variable results if the dipping process isn’t meticulously controlled.Spray Infusion (Even Cannabinoid Distribution):
With spray infusion, the extract is atomised and evenly distributed across the pre-roll. It’s a method that promises uniformity and is especially popular for high-volume production
Each machine consists of key components that work together harmoniously:
Hopper: Feeds the cannabis flower consistently into the machine.
Infusion System: Delivers the extract in precise quantities.
Rolling Chamber: In this part, the pre-roll is given a proper shape.
Quality Control Sensors: Monitor the process to ensure every roll meets quality standards.
The choice of machine and infusion method often depends on the specific needs of the production line and the type of pre-rolls being made.
For instance, needle infusion might be preferred for premium products requiring exact dosing, while spray infusion could be the go-to for bulk production. It’s a bit like choosing between a bespoke suit and off-the-rack clothing—each has its merits, depending on your needs and budget.
Preparing for Maximum Efficiency Before Use
Before you fire up your infused pre-roll machine, preparation is key. Start by selecting the right flower; its quality and moisture level will significantly affect the final product. Poor-quality flower can lead to pre-rolls that burn unevenly or simply don’t deliver the desired flavor and potency.
Next, decide on the best type of extract for your product. Distillates and live resin are often favoured because they offer high potency and a smooth consistency, though other options like rosin or sauce can also be considered if you’re looking for a different profile.
Calibration of the machine is another crucial step. Adjust the temperature, pressure, and infusion speed to match your chosen materials and desired output.
This fine-tuning not only ensures consistency but also helps avoid common pitfalls like over- or under-infusion. Lastly, always ensure your setup complies with local cannabis regulations—because nothing says “oops” like running afoul of the law in what should be a straightforward process.
According to The Cannabis Scientist, the cannabis flower needs to be broken into the right size pieces and packed to the correct density for an even and efficient draw. [2]
Step-by-Step Guide to Using an Infused Pre-Roll Machine
Loading your infused pre-roll machine correctly is a bit like preparing a gourmet meal—it all starts with the right ingredients and precise measurements.
Loading Your Infused Pre-Roll Machine
Begin by filling the flower chamber evenly to guarantee that every roll is uniform. Consistency is crucial here; uneven loading can lead to pre-rolls that vary in density, impacting both their burn and overall quality. Advanced sensors in the chamber can detect any irregularities in distribution, so calibrate the hopper mechanism to ensure a steady flow at approximately 0.5–0.8 kg per cycle.
Maintain the correct distillate-to-flower ratio, often set at a precise 1:10 ratio by weight for optimal potency. Too much extract may render your pre-roll overly sticky and unappealing, while too little risks inconsistent potency. Program the machine’s control unit with these ratios, ensuring every batch adheres to your standard.
Check that the infusion nozzle is free from clogs. Although modern systems incorporate self-cleaning features or diagnostic alerts, a manual inspection can save time. A blocked nozzle is not only a nuisance but also a sure way to ruin a batch, resulting in wasted time and materials.
Finally, set the machine to the appropriate rolling speed. Typically, this is calibrated at around 60–80 revolutions per minute to ensure that every pre-roll emerges as a uniformly rolled product, ready for the next stage of processing. Precision is everything, so double-check your settings before you hit start.
Optimising the Infusion Process
Fine-tune your settings based on the THC concentration of your extract and its viscosity, which may be measured in centipoise. These factors play a pivotal role in how well the extract blends with the flower.
Monitor the temperature and pressure during the infusion stage. Maintaining optimal levels ensures that the extract is absorbed evenly without pooling in one area or evaporating prematurely.
Avoid the common pitfall of over-infusing, which can leave you with pre-rolls that are too sticky to handle—a frustrating and counterproductive outcome. Conversely, under-infusion may lead to inconsistent potency and uneven cannabinoid distribution.
Take random samples periodically for testing using in-line quality control instruments. This practice can alert you to any inconsistencies before you produce a full batch. Adjust the machine settings until you find the perfect balance for a product that stands out in a competitive market.
Post-Processing: Drying, Curing, & Packaging
Ensure that the infused pre-rolls are dried thoroughly to remove any excess moisture that could ruin the quality of your product. This process might involve specialized drying tunnels where airflow is controlled and moisture levels are monitored precisely, ensuring an optimal moisture content of around 8–10%. Excess moisture can adversely affect both the burn rate and the overall integrity of the roll.
Allow the pre-rolls to settle during the curing process, ensuring that the extract is fully absorbed and integrated with the cannabis flower. Control airflow and humidity diligently; maintaining relative humidity between 55–65% is typically recommended. Too little humidity may cause improper curing, while too much could lead to overdrying.
Once your pre-rolls are dry and cured to perfection, proceed to packaging. Modern production often utilises automated pre-roll counting and sorting machines that employ barcode scanning or RFID tagging for accuracy. This step not only boosts efficiency but also reduces the risk of human error.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best extract to use in an infused pre-roll machine
Distillates and live resin are often recommended due to their high potency and smooth consistency, making them ideal for achieving a uniform infusion.
How do I prevent my pre-rolls from burning unevenly
Ensure an even distribution of infusion, maintain proper moisture levels in your flower, and use quality rolling papers. Regular calibration of your machine also helps.
How often should I clean my infused pre-roll machine
For light use, a daily cleaning routine is sufficient. For heavy production, cleaning every few hours is recommended to maintain efficiency and prevent clogs.
Achieving Peak Production
In summary, maximising the output of an infused pre-roll machine is as much an art as it is a science. From understanding the machine’s inner workings to carefully loading, optimising, and maintaining it, every step plays a vital role in producing high-quality, consistent pre-rolls. Whether you’re scaling up your operation or troubleshooting minor issues, the key lies in attention to detail and regular maintenance.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your production remains efficient, compliant, and primed for growth. After all, in the competitive world of cannabis production, a well-tuned machine is your best ally—so why settle for less when you can achieve maximum output with ease with sorting robotics? Contact Sorting Robotics to learn more about our infusion machines.
