An automatic shrink wrapping system is a packaging system that feeds products into the machine automatically. It then wraps each item in shrink film, seals the film and sends the pack through a heat tunnel.

As the pack travels through the tunnel, heat makes the film contract around it. This produces a neat, secure package while reducing manual handling.

Unlike manual packaging systems, automatic machines are designed for continuous production. Once the correct settings have been entered, the equipment can maintain steady packaging quality during long production runs.

How Does Automatic Shrink Wrap Machinery Work?

The exact machinery may vary, but the basic shrink wrapping process is usually similar.

1. Product Feeding

A conveyor automatically carries products into the wrapping equipment.

2. The Product Is Wrapped

Shrink film is positioned around each product before sealing begins.

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.

Why Use an Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machine?

Automatic shrink wrapping offers a number of practical benefits for production businesses.

Higher Packaging Speeds

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.

Uniform Pack Quality

The machinery applies consistent settings to each product. This creates a consistent finish across the production run.

Reduced Labour Requirements

The machinery reduces the amount of hands-on packaging work. Employees can then be assigned to other parts of the production process.

Added Protection During Distribution

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 manufacturing
• Drinks and beverages
• Domestic products
• Printed materials
• Pharmaceutical packaging
• Consumer goods
• Manufactured components
• Retail multipacks

Machine settings and layout can be adapted for individual items, multipacks or larger product groups.

When Is It Time to Move to Automatic Shrink Wrapping?

Many businesses start with manual or semi-automatic equipment and move to automatic machinery as production grows.

You may need an automatic machine if:

• Manual wrapping takes up too much staff time
• Production volumes are continuing to rise
• Pack consistency varies depending on the operator
• The business needs to increase production without employing additional packaging staff
• Products need to be wrapped continuously

Automatic machinery often becomes more efficient as packaging demand increases.

Key Features to Check Before Buying

The right machine depends on the products being wrapped and the requirements of the production line.

Points to check include:

• Production speed
• Maximum product dimensions
• A reliable sealing system
• Compatible shrink films
• Adjustable temperature controls
• Conveyor integration
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• Simple operator controls
• Low maintenance requirements

Machinery may be adapted for non-standard pack sizes and specific applications.

Automatic Versus Semi-Automatic Shrink Wrapping Machinery

Semi-automatic systems depend on staff to carry out certain parts of the packaging process.

Automatic systems handle almost the entire cycle with limited operator involvement. They are therefore often chosen for production lines processing large quantities of products.

Businesses gain more predictable output while relying less on hands-on packaging.

How Many Packs Per Minute Can an Automatic Machine Produce?

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.

Available equipment includes compact sealers, automatic L-sealers, side-sealing machines and tailored systems.

Kempner also provides commissioning, servicing and technical support. These services are intended to keep packaging equipment working reliably over the long term.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can one machine wrap several product types?

In many cases, yes. Most machines can be adjusted for different product sizes and formats. However, some equipment can be changed over more quickly than others.

Is automatic shrink wrap machinery suitable for small businesses?

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 properly selected for the products and production targets.

Can lower-impact shrink films be used?

Many current machines can use recyclable films, films containing recycled material and certain compostable options. Suitability depends on the application and equipment settings.