An automated shrink wrapping machine is a packaging system that moves products through the packaging process automatically. It then positions shrink film around each product, seals the film and sends the pack through a heat tunnel.
The heat tunnel causes the film to shrink closely around the item. This produces a secure and tidy finish while limiting the amount of manual work required.
Automatic machines differ from manual systems because they are built for ongoing production. Once the correct settings have been entered, the equipment can wrap products repeatedly using the same settings.
How Do Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machines Work?
The exact machinery may vary, but the basic shrink wrapping process is usually similar.
1. Product Feeding
Products are transferred into the machine using a conveyor system or connected production line.
2. The Product Is Wrapped
The machine places shrink film around the item ready for sealing.
3. The Film Is Sealed
The film is sealed around the product to prepare it for the shrinking stage.
4. Shrinking the Film
The sealed product passes through a heated tunnel, causing the film to contract.
5. Finished Package
Once wrapped, the completed product exits the machine and can be stored, distributed or displayed.
Advantages of Automatic Shrink Wrap Machinery
There are several reasons why manufacturers choose automatic shrink wrapping equipment.
Increased Output
An automatic line can wrap products at a much faster rate than a manual system. This makes them suitable for production environments that require steady or high output.
Repeatable Results
The machinery applies consistent settings to each product. This creates a consistent finish across the production run.
Reduced Labour Requirements
Operators spend less time wrapping products by hand. Employees can then be assigned to other parts of the production process.
Protection for Stored and Transported Goods
The wrapped film provides a barrier against dust, moisture and interference during storage and distribution.
More Controlled Film Consumption
Automatic systems can regulate film use more closely than manual wrapping. This can limit wasted material without weakening the seal.
Which Industries Use Automatic Shrink Wrap Machinery?
Businesses in a wide range of industries rely on automatic machinery for repeatable, high-speed packaging.
Typical sectors include:
- Food production
- Drinks and beverages
- Domestic products
- Books, magazines and other printed goods
- Pharmaceutical products
- General consumer products
- Industrial components
- Retail multipacks
Depending on the machine configuration, shrink wrapping can be used for individual products, promotional packs or larger grouped items.
Should Your Business Upgrade to an Automatic Machine?
Companies often begin with manual or semi-automatic systems before upgrading when output rises.
Signs that it may be time to upgrade include:
- Employees spend a large amount of time wrapping products manually
- Production volumes are continuing to rise
- Packaging quality differs between operators more info
- The business needs to increase production without employing additional packaging staff
- Products need to be wrapped continuously
As production grows, an automatic system can provide greater efficiency and more predictable output.
How Do You Choose an Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machine?
Different businesses need different machinery, so the correct system will depend on your products and production process.
Important features to assess include:
- Production speed
- Maximum product dimensions
- A reliable sealing system
- Compatible shrink films
- Controllable tunnel temperatures
- Compatibility with existing conveyors
- Straightforward machine controls
- Servicing and maintenance needs
Some systems can also be customised for unusual product dimensions or specialist packaging tasks.
What Is the Difference Between Automatic and Semi-Automatic Shrink Wrap Machines?
With a semi-automatic machine, an operator usually has to place the product or begin one or more stages.
By comparison, automatic machinery completes most parts of the wrapping process by itself. They are therefore more appropriate for high daily packaging volumes.
This can provide faster production, repeatable pack quality and reduced manual work.
What Is the Operating Speed of an Automatic Shrink Wrap Machine?
The number of packs produced per minute depends on product dimensions, equipment settings and the type of wrap required.
Many automatic shrink wrap machines can produce approximately 25 to 40 packs each minute. Some high-speed automatic side sealers can produce over 100 packs each minute when the application permits.
Automatic Shrink Wrap Machinery from Kempner
Kempner UK has supplied packaging machinery and shrink wrap materials for more than 50 years. The company works with businesses across numerous production environments.
The range covers compact automatic machines, L-sealers, side sealers and systems built for specific production needs.
Support services include installation commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services are intended to keep packaging equipment working reliably over the long term.
Questions About Automatic Shrink Wrap Machines
Can automatic machines handle different product sizes?
Yes. Automatic equipment can often be configured to handle several product formats. However, changeover times depend on the machinery.
Can a small business use an automatic shrink wrap machine?
It can be suitable for a small business with growing production volumes. Investment often becomes worthwhile when hand wrapping can no longer keep pace with orders.
Can automation lower shrink wrapping costs?
They can reduce labour needs, improve efficiency and limit film waste when correctly specified. The machine must be matched correctly to the application.
Are automatic machines compatible with recyclable shrink film?
Some automatic machines are compatible with recyclable, recycled-content and selected compostable shrink films. Suitability depends on the product, machine configuration and packaging requirements.