Shrink Film Packaging Machine: A Guide to Choosing the Right One

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If you're in the market for a shrink film packaging machine, you're likely overwhelmed by the numerous options available. The right machine can make a huge difference in your packaging process, but choosing the wrong one can lead to wasted time and resources.

Shrink film packaging machines come in various sizes, ranging from compact tabletop models to large industrial machines. Compact machines are ideal for small to medium-sized businesses, while larger machines are better suited for high-volume production.

The type of product you're packaging also plays a significant role in choosing the right machine. For example, if you're packaging fragile items, you'll want a machine with adjustable temperature control to ensure gentle heating.

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Types of Packaging Machines

Shrink wrap machines are highly versatile and can be categorized based on the type of products they pack, the wrapping materials used, and the method of film application.

There are specific shrink wrap machines designed to fit particular shapes and sizes, such as tunnel shrink wrap machines for flat products like books, tiles, and fruit boxes.

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Some shrink wrap machines are designed to work with specific wrapping materials, like pad packaging machines that use a pad to pack items and are ideal for products that require extra protection.

Shrink wrap machines can also be categorized by the method of film application. For example, collar shrink wrap machines are ideal for cylindrical products with neck labels, bottles, and jars.

Here are some examples of shrink wrap machines categorized by product shape and size:

  • Tunnel shrink wrap machine for flat products
  • Multi-head shrink wrappers for products with multiple heads
  • Pad packaging machine for products that require extra protection

Shrink wrap machines can also be categorized by the type of film used, such as collar shrink wrap machines for PVC and POF shrink films, and inverted shrink wrap machines for LDPE films.

IL Series

The IL Series is a type of packaging machine designed for products that are longer than 4 inches. It offers an inline shrink wrapper with a simple belt-to-belt product transfer, delivering a precise bullseye/sleeve wrap.

This series is ideal for packaging products that require a snug and secure wrap. The IL Series is a great option for those who need to package long items efficiently.

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One of the key features of the IL Series is its ability to handle products longer than 4 inches. This makes it a versatile option for a variety of industries and applications.

The IL Series is part of POLYPACK's lineup of packaging machines, which includes the ILB & CMB SERIES. This series introduces inline bucket conveyor shrink wrap machines designed specifically for bullseye/sleeve wraps.

Here are some of the key features of the IL Series:

  • Inline shrink wrapper with a simple belt-to-belt product transfer
  • Precise bullseye/sleeve wrap
  • Designed for products longer than 4 inches
  • Part of POLYPACK's lineup of packaging machines

Types of Machines

There are various types of packaging machines, each designed to cater to specific packaging needs. Let's take a closer look at some of the most common types of machines.

Automatic shrink wrap machines are used to pack products with shrink films, and they can be divided into three categories based on the product's shape and size. For example, a tunnel shrink wrap machine is usually applied to pack flat products such as books, tiles, and fruit boxes.

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Some machines, like the GPL-5545CI+GPS-5030LW, are automatic edge sealing and shrinking packaging machines that can handle various products. Others, like the GPL-4535I+GPS-4525, are automatic L-type sealing and shrinking packaging machines that are ideal for specific products.

Shrink wrap machines can also be categorized based on the wrapping material used. Pad packaging machines, for instance, use a pad to pack items and are ideal for products that require extra protection or reinforcement during transportation.

Here are some common types of shrink wrap machines:

  • Tunnel shrink wrap machine: used for packing flat products
  • Pad packaging machine: uses a pad to pack items and provides extra protection
  • Collar shrink wrap machine: ideal for cylindrical products with neck labels
  • Inverted shrink wrap machine: applies heat shrink films invertedly and is ideal for low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films
  • Band shrink wrap machine: used to group items together or provide product visibility in retail settings

Each type of machine has its own unique features and benefits, and choosing the right one depends on the specific packaging needs of the product. For example, the FH SERIES by POLYPACK is an intermittent motion pusher machine designed for total closure shrink wrapping.

Machine Components

A shrink film packaging machine relies on several key machine components to function properly. These components include the unwinder, which unwinds the shrink film from a roll, and the preheater, which heats the film to a precise temperature.

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The unwinder is typically a motor-driven roller that controls the speed and tension of the film. The preheater is usually a heated drum or belt that applies a consistent heat to the film.

The machine's control system, which includes a PLC and HMI, plays a crucial role in monitoring and controlling the machine's performance, including the temperature of the preheater and the speed of the unwinder.

Chamber

The chamber is a critical component in many shrink machines, and its size can vary depending on the specific application.

In a shrink tunnel, the chamber is the size of the heated interior area where the shrink process takes place.

A fully enclosed chamber, like the one found in a seal and shrink wrapping machine, fills with hot air for a specified time after a completed seal.

Exit Conveyor

An exit conveyor is a mechanically or gravity-driven product transportation device used to move products from a semi-automatic or fully automatic shrink wrap machine, completing the packaging cycle.

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It plays a crucial role in ensuring products are moved efficiently and safely out of the packaging area.

The exit conveyor is designed to handle a variety of product sizes and weights, making it a versatile component in the packaging process.

Products are typically moved from the exit conveyor to a designated area for further handling or storage.

The exit conveyor's mechanical or gravity-driven design allows for smooth and consistent movement, reducing the risk of product damage or jamming.

By completing the packaging cycle, the exit conveyor helps to streamline the overall packaging process, improving productivity and efficiency.

Film Separator

A film separator is a device used to separate centerfold shrink film before sealing and shrinking, preventing issues during the sealing process.

This device is particularly useful for preventing problems that can arise from centerfold shrink film getting stuck or tangled during the sealing process.

The film separator helps to ensure a smooth and efficient sealing process, which is crucial for maintaining the quality of the final product.

By separating the centerfold shrink film, this device helps to prevent wrinkles, creases, and other imperfections that can affect the appearance and functionality of the product.

Machine Features

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One of the key benefits of an inline automatic shrink wrap machine is its flexible footprint, which allows for easy integration into various production lines. This flexibility also extends to its modular design, enabling substantial flexibility in capabilities.

The machine's inline layout and modular design make it easy to integrate with wide side seal assemblies to create total enclosure packages. This is particularly useful for products that require a high level of protection and presentation.

Some key features of these machines include:

  • Flexible footprints
  • Inline layout
  • Modular design
  • Frequently integrated with wide side seal assemblies
  • Works well with unsupported and supported products
  • Can be easily integrated with EDL corrugate tray/pad loading equipment
  • Throughput rates range from 5-15 packs per minute

These machines can also be easily integrated with other equipment, such as EDL corrugate tray/pad loading equipment, to create a seamless packaging process.

Every Contour Tight, Shine Bright

Our shrink wrapping machines are designed to ensure a flawless, tight seal on your products. This is made possible by the automatic edge sealing and shrinking packaging machines, such as the GPL-5545CI+GPS-5030LW and GPL-4535I+GPS-4525.

These machines can seal and shrink packaging with precision, making your product stand out with clarity and precision. The automatic L-type sealing and shrinking packaging machine, GPL-4535I+GPS-4525, is one such example.

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The sealing process is formed by the top bar on an L Bar sealer or I bar sealer, lowered down to create a seal on flexible plastic film. This foundational element is crucial for a tight seal.

Here are some examples of our shrink wrapping machines:

  • Automatic edge sealing and shrinking packaging machine GPL-5545CI+GPS-5030LW
  • Automatic L-type sealing and shrinking packaging machine GPL-4535I+GPS-4525
  • Fully automatic L type vertical upper and lower sealing and shrinking machine GPL-5545DI+GPS-5030LW
  • Auto High-Speed Vertical L-Bar Sealer and Shrinking Packaging Machine GPL-5545DH+GPS-5030LW
  • Automatic high speed edge sealing and shrinking machine GPL-5545H+GPS-5030LLW
  • Automatic Frontal Feeding Sleeve Sealing and Shrinking Machine GPL-6030Z+GPS-6040

Infrared

Infrared technology is used in a form of shrink tunnel that consists of multiple infrared heating tubes, ensuring efficient and consistent heat distribution.

This design allows for a more even heat distribution, which is especially useful for packaging applications.

The infrared heating tubes are often used to heat the inside of the tunnel, providing a precise and controlled heat source.

This precision is crucial for maintaining the quality of the packaged products.

Recirculating

Recirculating is a feature that enhances the efficiency of the shrink-wrapping process. It uses fans to blow heat within the shrink tunnel continuously.

This continuous flow of heat helps to ensure a more even and consistent shrink-wrapping process. Recirculating Shrink Tunnels are a type of form that uses this feature.

By recirculating the heat, machines can save energy and reduce the time it takes to shrink wrap products. A specific example of this is the 21. Recirculating Shrink Tunnel, which was mentioned in the article.

Steam

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Steam is a versatile heat source used in some shrink tunnels. It's an alternative to traditional heat sources, offering a unique way to heat the tunnel interior.

A steam shrink tunnel, for instance, uses steam to heat the tunnel. This type of tunnel is a form of shrink tunnel that uses steam as its heat source.

Using steam as a heat source can be beneficial in certain situations.

Machine Operations

To use a shrink wrapping machine effectively, you need to set it up correctly. The power connection of the machine is through a circuit breaker rather than a common power plug.

First, load the film correctly onto the machine. The machine settings, including temperature, conveyor speed, and air flow, need to be adjusted based on the film type and product specifications.

Position the product inside the shrink film, ensuring a secure seal. Start the machine, allowing the product to pass through the heat tunnel while monitoring the process for even shrinkage.

Open Side Pack

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The Open Side Pack is a game-changer for machine operations. It allows for easy access to the machine's interior, making maintenance and repair a breeze.

One of the key benefits of the Open Side Pack is that it reduces downtime, getting your machine back up and running in no time. This is especially important for businesses that rely on their machines to operate 24/7.

The Open Side Pack is designed to be ergonomic, making it easy to use even for extended periods. Its compact design also means it won't take up too much space in your workshop or on the job site.

In our experience, the Open Side Pack has proven to be a valuable investment for machine operators. It's a small price to pay for the increased productivity and efficiency it brings to your operations.

How to Use

To use a shrink wrapping machine effectively, you'll need to set it up correctly, which includes making sure the power connection is through a circuit breaker rather than a common power plug.

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First, load the film correctly into the machine. Next, adjust the machine settings according to the film type and product specifications, which may involve setting the temperature, conveyor speed, and air flow.

Position the product inside the shrink film, ensuring a secure seal. The product will then pass through the heat tunnel, where it will be heated to create an even shrinkage.

After the product cools, inspect the wrap for quality to make sure it's properly sealed. Regular maintenance is also crucial to keep the machine in optimal condition, especially after each use.

Machine Specifications

Machine specifications can be a bit overwhelming, but don't worry, I've got the basics covered. Machines have a pallet or package size they can effectively shrink-wrap, and testing samples before moving to full-scale production is important to avoid delays.

The type of shooting mechanism that releases the film in a shrink-wrap machine differs between manual and automatic models. In manual models, an operator pulls a lever to shoot the film, while in automatic models, photocells or sensors detect the package to automatically shoot the film around it.

The strength, quality, and ability to prevent damage of the material used to construct the packaging machine is crucial. Stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum, and other materials offer different protective qualities and resist corrosion.

Clearprint Tango Series

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The Clearprint Tango Series is a versatile shrink bundler that can handle both clear and printed film applications. It ensures a snug and secure wrap for your products.

This series is designed to adapt to various packaging needs, making it a great option for businesses with diverse product lines. It's perfect for packaging products with vibrant prints or clear products that need a secure wrap.

One of the key benefits of the Clearprint Tango Series is its ability to handle a wide range of product sizes and types. Whether you're packaging short or long products, this machine has got you covered.

The Clearprint Tango Series is a reliable and efficient option for businesses looking for a flexible packaging solution.

24. Sealing Bar

The sealing bar is a crucial component in shrink packaging machines, and it's the top bar on an L Bar sealer or I Bar sealer.

It's lowered down to create a seal on flexible plastic film, forming the foundational element of the sealing process. This bar plays a vital role in ensuring the integrity of the seal.

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The sealing bar is typically made of a durable material that can withstand the heat and pressure involved in the sealing process. It's designed to be easy to use and maintain, making it a valuable asset in any packaging operation.

In machines like the one mentioned in the article, the sealing bar is an essential feature that helps to efficiently seal shrink film.

21. Recirculating

In a recirculating shrink tunnel, fans blow heat continuously to enhance efficiency. This type of tunnel is a form of shrink tunnel.

The recirculating design helps to maintain a consistent temperature, ensuring that the shrink-wrapping process is carried out efficiently.

26. Chamber

In a machine with a Shrink Chamber, the seal is fully enclosed, which ensures thorough shrinkage of the film.

The Shrink Chamber fills with hot air for a specified time after a completed seal, making the shrinkage process efficient.

30. Steam

Steam is a versatile heat source used in some shrink tunnels, as seen in the Steam Shrink Tunnel example, which uses steam to heat the tunnel interior, offering an alternative to traditional heat sources.

This alternative heat source can be beneficial for certain applications, allowing for more flexibility in the shrink-wrapping process.

Specifications and Maintenance

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A shrink wrap machine's specifications can vary greatly depending on the model and type, so it's essential to test samples before moving to full-scale production to avoid delays and frequent stopping to adjust.

Machines have a pallet or package size they can effectively shrink-wrap, and the wrong fit can cause issues.

There are limitations on the film and shrink film roll sizes that can be used with the shrink-wrap machine, with a shrink tunnel machine taking larger film rolls than an auto A fold machine.

Shrink-wrap machines use electricity, gas, or heat from hot air coils or wires to power up and create the heat needed to shrink, with electricity requirements listed in volts and amps, gas in BTUs, and heat in temp degrees.

The type of shooting mechanism that releases the film in a shrink-wrap machine differs between manual and automatic models, with manual models requiring an operator to pull a lever to shoot the film.

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Machines have panels and buttons that control and adjust film temperature, sealing time, pressure, shrinkage temperature, and more, with varying levels of control from manual to digital and touchscreen.

A table of common machine specifications and maintenance requirements is below:

Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent bacteria build-up and fires, especially after use, and manufacturers advise cleaning the film residue that gets on the heat plates.

Locked and alarmed storage is also recommended when not using the machine, as a manual shrink wrap machine is more vulnerable to theft than automatic machines.

A periodic deep clean is necessary to maintain the machine's performance and prevent damage to the material used to construct the packaging machine.

Machine Selection and Maintenance

Choosing the right shrink film packaging machine can be a bit overwhelming, but it's essential to get it right. The specifications of a shrink wrap machine differ depending on the model and type.

When selecting a machine, consider the pallet or package size it can effectively shrink-wrap. Testing samples before moving to full-scale production is crucial to avoid delays and frequent adjustments.

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The type of shooting mechanism is another important factor, with manual models requiring an operator to pull a lever and automatic models using photocells or sensors to detect the package.

Shrink-wrap machines use electricity, gas, or heat from hot air coils or wires to power up and create the heat needed to shrink. Electricity requirements are listed in volts and amps, gas in BTUs, and heat in temperature degrees.

The material used to construct the packaging machine is also vital, with stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum, and other materials offering different protective qualities and resisting corrosion.

Here are some key maintenance requirements to consider:

  • Regular cleaning after use, especially the film residue that gets on the heat plates
  • Locked and alarmed storage when not in use
  • Periodic deep clean on a scheduled basis
  • Calibrate and inspect the machine regularly

Fh Series

The FH Series is a versatile option for packaging needs. It's an intermittent motion pusher machine designed for total closure shrink wrapping.

This series caters to diverse packaging needs, making it a great choice for businesses with varying product lines. It's a reliable option that can handle a range of packaging tasks.

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One of the key benefits of the FH Series is its flexibility. It can be used with a variety of products, including unsupported and supported items like corrugate trays or pads.

If you're planning to integrate the FH Series with EDL corrugate tray/pad loading equipment, you'll be happy to know that it can be easily integrated. This makes the process of setting up and running the machine much smoother.

The FH Series is a great choice for businesses that need a machine that can handle high throughput rates. Throughput rates range from 5-15 packs per minute, depending on the product and enclosure used.

How to Choose

Choosing the right shrink wrap machine for bundling can be a bit overwhelming, but don't worry, I've got you covered.

To start, consider the product dimensions of the items you want to bundle. Measure and evaluate their size and shape to ensure you select a shrink wrap machine with the suitable size of the shrink tunnel or chamber.

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Packaging needs are also crucial. Think about the packaging style, film type, and shrink speed you need. Do you require center-value shrink wrap for retail packaging or secure packaging? What kind of film will you use, and how fast do you need to shrink it?

Operating environment is another vital factor. If your workspace is prone to dust or contaminants, look for a machine with a changeable film frameless design, such as a fully automatic shrink film machine with a conveyor belt.

Budget is a significant consideration when buying a shrink wrap machine. Set a reasonable budget based on your packaging needs and avoid overemphasizing additional features.

Here's a summary of the key factors to consider:

  • Product dimensions: Measure and evaluate the size and shape of your products.
  • Packaging needs: Consider packaging style, film type, and shrink speed.
  • Operating environment: Think about dust, contaminants, and electrical power availability.
  • Budget: Set a reasonable budget based on your packaging needs.

Do You Offer Maintenance and Support?

We offer comprehensive maintenance and support services for our shrink wrapping machines, ensuring they run optimally and efficiently.

Our warranty period is one year, during which we provide free replacement of parts, except for easily damaged parts. After the warranty period, you can still contact us for any questions or concerns about the machine.

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We offer after-sales service, including a user manual, installation and debugging video, and one-to-one video chat. We also provide overseas after-sales service in some areas.

If you need to ship a machine, we have overseas warehouses that can reduce delivery time and cost.

Here are some key specifications and maintenance requirements to consider:

  • Machines have a pallet or package size they can effectively shrink-wrap. Testing samples before moving to full-scale production is important.
  • Regular cleaning is essential, especially after use, to prevent bacteria build-up and fires.
  • Machines should be locked and alarmed when not in use to prevent theft.
  • Periodic deep cleaning and calibration are necessary to ensure optimal performance.

A table summarizing our maintenance requirements is below:

When to Invest in Automatic Packaging

If you're running a business that involves packaging products, you're likely to encounter situations where an automatic shrink wrap packaging machine is the best solution.

Automatic shrink wrap systems can be designed and manufactured to meet a wide range of packaging goals, making them a popular choice for manufacturing settings that warrant mid-to-higher production rates.

You should consider investing in a fully automatic packaging machine if you have a limited number of products and large runs of them, as this is usually the best fit for an automatic machine.

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An automatic machine can eliminate some of the hands-on processes associated with packaging your products, improving line efficiencies and reducing labor costs.

If you need your machine to present your products in a very specific manner, an automated machine will have the repeatability you're looking for.

Here are some scenarios where an automatic solution may be the more cost-effective option:

Machine Uses and Benefits

Shrink film packaging machines are incredibly versatile and have a wide range of uses. They're ideal for packaging items in bulk or holding together items that come in multiple units.

In the food industry, shrink wrap machines are used to package products like pizza, meat, fruit, vegetables, and canned goods. This helps preserve the quality of these food items and prolongs their shelf life.

Shrink wrap machines can be found in various settings, including packaging facilities, warehouses, and assembly lines. They're used to package products for distribution and resale, making them easier to manage in retail settings.

The machines are also used extensively in the publishing industry to package books, calendars, DVDs, CDs, boxes sets, software packages, and other kinds of fragile and non-fragile media.

General Application

Hands packaging coffee beans in a modern industrial facility.
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The Gurki Shrink Wrapping Machines are incredibly versatile, and their applications go beyond what you might think. They boast a broad spectrum of uses.

Setting up a shrink machine is crucial for its effective use. It should be noted that the power connection of the shrink machine is through a circuit breaker rather than a common power plug.

The machine's settings, including temperature, conveyor speed, and air flow, need to be adjusted based on the film type and product specifications. This ensures the best possible results.

Gurki Shrink Wrapping Machines can be used for a variety of applications, including wrapping products in shrink film. The film is loaded correctly onto the machine before use.

Regular maintenance is necessary to keep the machine in optimal condition. This includes inspecting the wrap for quality and performing routine checks.

Uses of Machines

Shrink wrap machines are incredibly versatile and have a wide range of uses in various industries. They're ideal for packaging items in bulk or holding together items that come in multiple units.

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Shrink wrap machines are commonly used in the food industry to package products like pizza, meat, fruit, vegetables, and canned goods. This helps preserve the quality of these food items and prolongs their shelf life.

In packaging facilities, warehouses, and assembly lines, shrink wrap machines are used to package products for distribution and resale. They're also used in retail settings to make products easier to manage.

Shrink wrap machines are used extensively in the publishing industry to package books, calendars, DVDs, CDs, boxes sets, software packages, and other kinds of fragile and non-fragible media. They're also used for clamshell packaging to secure the product inside the clamshell.

Here are some specific examples of industries that use shrink wrap machines:

  • Food industry: packaging pizza, meat, fruit, vegetables, and canned goods
  • Publishing industry: packaging books, calendars, DVDs, CDs, boxes sets, software packages, and other media
  • Retail industry: packaging products for distribution and resale
  • Pharmaceutical industry: packaging medication containers like bottles, blister packs, and boxes

Shrink wrap machines are also used to package non-pourable liquids like bottles, jars, and cartons, offering additional handling safety and reducing spillage. They're ideal for packaging perishable items like meat, poultry, and seafood, which are typically refrigerated or frozen to keep the product cold.

Clara Donnelly

Writer

Clara Donnelly is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging content across various industries. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, she brings complex topics to life through her writing. Her expertise spans a range of topics, including sustainable packaging solutions, where she explores innovative ideas and eco-friendly practices that minimize waste and promote environmental responsibility.

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