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Does poor heat shrink packaging performance relate to the product being packaged? How can I achieve better and more consistent shrink wrapping results?
Seal-and-Shrink Packaging Equipment refers to the comprehensive set of automated film-on-demand and heat-sealing packaging technologies and processes applied during product distribution to optimize transportation, protect goods, facilitate storage and handling, and support sales. It encompasses the technical activities and operational procedures involved in equipment packaging.
Many customers find that their shrink-wrapping results are consistently unsatisfactory. Your first instinct might be to blame the shrink wrapping machine. However, issues often arise when the machine isn’t properly matched to your product’s material, shape, or dimensions. Below, we explain how your product itself can lead to poor shrink packaging performance—and how to achieve better, more consistent results.
The first component to inspect is the shrink tunnel. How large is it? More importantly, how does its size compare to your product? If your product is too large for the tunnel, it may scrape against or snag on the heating elements as it passes through—potentially puncturing the film.
How hot does your shrink tunnel get? If the temperature is too low, the film won’t shrink properly or form a tight seal. Conversely, excessive heat can also cause problems.
If the tunnel isn’t heating sufficiently, your machine may need calibration or maintenance. On the other hand, if products emerge from the tunnel melted or deformed, conduct thermal testing to determine the maximum temperature your items can safely withstand.
How exactly can your product contribute to poor shrink results? In several ways:
Is your product oddly shaped, oversized, or undersized? To verify whether your machine can handle it, record the item’s weight and dimensions, then compare them against the specifications in your machine’s user manual. Ensure the product can pass smoothly through the system. If your conveyor uses rollers, exercise extra caution—irregularly shaped or ill-fitting items can damage rollers and chains. If this information isn’t available in the manual or documentation, contact your equipment manufacturer for guidance.
For example, metal belts are incompatible with polyethylene (PE) film—the film tends to stick to metal surfaces, leading to tearing and other issues. If you’re using PE film, opt for PTFE (Teflon®) or fiberglass mesh belts for optimal performance. For heavier products or high-density loading (multiple items on the belt at once), plastic mesh conveyor belts are the best choice to minimize downtime and ensure smooth transport. If your products tend to shift or drift on the belt, consider installing side guides to keep them centered and stable.
What type of shrink film are you using? Your machine might not be compatible with the film’s thickness or formulation. Equally important, your product itself may react poorly with the chosen film. For instance, certain chemicals in products like perfumes can interact adversely with specific films, negatively affecting shrink quality. Always verify that your film is fully compatible with your machine, conveyor belt, and—critically—the product being packaged.
