An automatic shrink wrap machine is a packaging system that moves products through the packaging process automatically. It then wraps each item in shrink film, seals the film and sends the pack through a heat tunnel.
Inside the heat tunnel, the film contracts tightly around the product. This produces a consistent and professional-looking pack 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?
Most automatic shrink wrap machines use a similar packaging process, even when their designs differ.
1. Products Enter the Machine
A conveyor automatically carries products into the wrapping equipment.
2. The Product Is Wrapped
The machine places shrink film around the item ready for sealing.
3. Automatic Sealing
The film is sealed around the product to prepare it for the shrinking stage.
4. The Pack Enters the Heat Tunnel
Heat is applied as the pack moves through the tunnel, tightening the film around the product.
5. Finished Package
The packaged item leaves the line ready for handling, delivery or presentation in a retail setting.
What Are the Benefits of Automatic Shrink Wrap Machines?
There are several reasons why manufacturers choose automatic shrink wrapping equipment.
Faster Production
Automated systems usually process substantially more packs than manual machinery. This makes them suitable for production environments that require steady or high output.
Repeatable Results
Every pack is wrapped using the same machine settings. This creates a neat and uniform appearance.
Less Manual Handling
Operators spend less time wrapping products by hand. Employees can then spend more time on other tasks.
Added Protection During Distribution
A close film covering helps shield products from dirt, damp conditions and tampering during warehousing and delivery.
Reduced Material Use
Current machinery often includes controls designed to limit excess film consumption. This can keep material use controlled while maintaining pack integrity.
Where Are Automatic Shrink Wrap Machines Used?
Businesses in a wide range of industries rely on automatic machinery for repeatable, high-speed packaging.
Typical sectors include:
- Food manufacturing
- Beverage production
- Domestic products
- Books, magazines and other printed goods
- Pharmaceutical products
- General consumer products
- Manufactured components
- Grouped retail packs
The equipment can be configured to wrap single products, promotional bundles and grouped goods.
When Is It Time to Move to Automatic Shrink Wrapping?
A manual or semi-automatic machine may be suitable at first, but higher production levels can make automatic equipment more practical.
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
- Pack consistency varies depending on the operator
- You need greater output without adding more labour
- Products need to be wrapped continuously
As production grows, an automatic system can provide greater efficiency and more predictable output.
Key Features to Check Before Buying
Machine selection should be based on product size, output targets and packaging requirements.
Points to check include:
- Maximum operating speed
- Supported product sizes get more info
- A reliable sealing system
- Suitable film types
- Adjustable temperature controls
- Conveyor integration
- Straightforward machine controls
- Servicing and maintenance needs
Custom configurations are available for unusual products or specialist production requirements.
Automatic Versus Semi-Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machinery
With a semi-automatic machine, an operator usually has to place the product or begin one or more stages.
Automatic systems handle almost the entire cycle with limited operator involvement. They are therefore more appropriate for high daily packaging volumes.
Businesses gain more predictable output while relying less on hands-on packaging.
How Many Packs Per Minute Can an Automatic Machine Produce?
Production speed varies according to product size, machine layout and packaging complexity.
Many automatic shrink wrapping systems 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 has supplied packaging machinery and shrink wrap materials for more than 50 years. The company works with businesses across many different industries.
Its machinery range includes compact automatic sealers, standard L-sealers, side sealers and custom-built systems.
Support services include installation commissioning, maintenance and technical assistance. These services are intended to support reliable long-term operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can automatic machines handle different product sizes?
Yes. Most machines can be adjusted for different product sizes and formats. However, the time required to switch products varies by machine.
Are automatic machines only for large manufacturers?
Yes, particularly when a smaller company is increasing its output. Investment often becomes worthwhile when manual processes begin limiting daily output.
Do automatic shrink wrap machines reduce packaging costs?
A suitable machine may lower labour requirements, increase output and control material use. The machine must be specified according to the required packaging process.
Can lower-impact shrink films be used?
Depending on the application, modern systems may accept recyclable film, recycled-content film or some compostable materials. Suitability depends on the type of film, pack format and machinery specification.