A stretch wrapping machine is a type of machine that covers items on pallets or bundles with a stretchable plastic film known as stretch film. Stretch film provides protection to items against dust, moisture, and other contaminants and keeps products clean and in good condition also, it also prevents items from shifting or falling off during transit or supply of the item.
Stretch film comes in various forms that are manual, semi-automatic, and automatic, which are used according to the need for packaging. Before choosing the type of machine used or stretch wrapper to be used must consider the dimensions and weight of the loads that prevent the item from being damaged.
In this blog, we will provide a complete guide on using stretch wrapping machines to boost packaging efficiency and maintain product quality.
Introduction to Stretch Wrapping Machines
Stretch wrapping machines, also known as stretch wrappers, cover items on pallets or bundles with a highly stretchable plastic film called stretch film. This film can be easily wrapped around the items to be transported by any means of transportation.
The elastic recovery keeps the items tightly bound and prevents them from falling or breaking. Industries that use it are logistics, transportation, the manufacturing industry, food and beverage delivery companies, retail or grocery shops, and also for the packaging of agricultural items that can be packed and easily transported from one place to another, and ensure that goods arrive in good condition.
Types of Stretch Wrapping Machines
There are various types of stretch wrapping machines that can be used by different industries according to the needs of the item to be packaged and transported.
Semi-automatic stretch wrapping machine
Semi-automatic stretch-wrapping machines are used for some steps, like film attachment, but automate the wrapping process. There is a need for manual work in this machinery, where half of the work is done manually, and half of the wrapping task of stretch film is completed by using a semi-automatic stretch wrapping machine.
Automatic stretch-wrapping machine
As you can understand by the name, the whole work done by the automatic stretch-wrapping machine is fully automated. There is no need for any human resources for film attachment to discharge the wrapped load. It is a cost-saving investment for the companies as they don’t have to incur expenses in hiring extra labor for the task. Also, packaging is done by the machine, giving a clear and fine finish to the packaging that holds the item tightly.
Robotic/stretch arms
Robotic or stretch arms are the simple machines that are used for wrapping individual cartons or boxes. The robotic arms are used to apply stretch wrap film around pallets and other loads that help in automating the process of wrapping and securing goods for transport and storage. This automation increases the speed of tasks to be done, the efficiency of the workers, consistency, and safety in pallet wrapping.
Benefits of Using a Stretch Wrapping Machine
Here we have mentioned the benefits of using a stretch-wrapping machine that provides safety and support to the items and ensures the delivery of goods in good condition.
Time-saving
Automotive stretch-wrapping machines save time and labor for the company as compared to manual wrapping, which needs time and manpower to complete the task. Also, the wrapping done manually can lead to mistakes during packaging that can be eliminated by the automatic stretch-wrapping machine.
Consistent wrapping
By controlling the film usage of the stretch-wrapping machine in one go and ensuring consistent wrapping, the machine helps in reducing wastage that may occur due to the manual exchange of film or cutting after the completion of the packaging of goods on the pallet.
Reduced labor cost
Stretch wrapping is a fast and efficient way to wrap pallets as compared to other methods used in the market, it reduces the packaging time and labor costs of the company used in completing other tasks.
Damage prevention
The film shield protects the item from moisture, dust, and other contaminants as the film tightly wraps around the load that holds the items together and prevents items from shifting or falling off during transport or handling.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing the Right Stretch Wrapper
You can choose the right stretch wrapper by focusing on the key points like load size, volume, speed needs, and budget. Here are some key points on choosing the right scratch wrapper:
Load Weight
If you have to wrap goods or heavy items, then you must choose stronger stretch wrap that would not be damaged due to the load during the supply of the goods by any means of transportation.
Load Shape
Load shape is another factor that you must keep in mind during packaging, as irregular or unstable loads need more holding power and durability.
Production Capacity
To choose the right stretch wrapping machine must consider the number of pallets to be wrapped in a day and the desired speed you need to complete the task.
Product Type
Different products need different packaging. Choosing a stretch wrapping machine also depends upon the products to be packed, like cardboard boxes, bottles, etc., that may require different stretch wrap properties that ensure the safety of the products.
Environmental Conditions
The means of transportation to be used to supply the goods also leads to the selection of the stretch wrapping machine, as dust, humidity, and temperature can affect the performance of stretch wrap.
Dipack’s Stretch Wrapping Solutions
The following are the wrapping solutions used at Dipack’s packaging solutions. The use of a stretch-wrapping machine also depends on the type of products to be packed or the environment, and the cost to be incurred by the company.
1. Pallet Stretch Wrapping Machine (Turntable )
Pallet stretch wrapping machines are turntable wrapping machines that are used in the packaging industry for several reasons. They ensure the good condition of the products during transit and storage. It enhances stability, improves efficiency by saving time and labor, and can be cost-effective in the long run.
3. Pallet Stretch Wrapping Machine (Inline )
Pallet stretch wrapping machines that use rotary arm pallets for the wrapping are the wrapping machines that are mostly known for their high speed, stability, versatility, and automation. They wrap pallets quickly, stabilize loads effectively, and can handle various pallet sizes and shapes. These machines automate the wrapping process, reduce film usage, and are equipped with safety features.
4. Reel Stretch Wrapping Machine (Axial)
The reel stretch wrapping machine is designed to apply layers of film across the face diametrically and wrap them along the longitudinal axis that forms a cocoon-type packing. Axial-type reel stretch-wrapping machines are mostly used for efficiently wrapping large reels of paper and flexible film. These machines enhance productivity, can be customized, and improve workplace safety.
5. Reel Stretch Wrapping Machine (Radial)
A radial stretch wrapping machine is a specialized piece of equipment that is used to wrap stretch film around cylindrical products like rolls of paper, fabric, or film, which gives protection and stability during storage and transportation. It increases the efficiency and safety of the products, ensuring the supply of products in good condition.
Conclusion
The best way to increase profitability is to reduce labor costs and time on the products. It increases the cost of production of goods. In the same way, investing in a stretch wrapper is a smart packaging decision for a company, as it provides many benefits, including time-saving, cost savings, and environmental friendliness, and gives protection to the items for transit. That increases the customer’s satisfaction and the brand value of the company.
A stretch-wrapping machine is used by different industries to ensure the safety of the goods and delivery of goods in good condition, as the stretch film holds the item together and eliminates the chance of falling and contamination of the products, especially food items.
