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.
Inside the heat tunnel, the film contracts tightly around the product. 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 package products consistently throughout the working day.
What Is the Automatic Shrink Wrapping Process?
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
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. Heat Tunnel
The wrapped item travels through a heat tunnel where the film shrinks.
5. The Completed Pack
The packaged item leaves the line ready for handling, delivery or presentation in a retail setting.
Advantages of Automatic Shrink Wrap Machinery
Businesses use automatic shrink wrap machines for several practical reasons.
Increased Output
Automatic machines can package far more products than manual equipment. This makes them suitable for businesses with moderate or large production volumes.
Consistent Packaging
Every pack is wrapped using the same machine settings. This creates a reliable and repeatable pack appearance.
Lower Operator Involvement
The machinery reduces the amount of hands-on packaging work. Employees can then spend more time on other tasks.
Better Product Protection
Shrink film can help protect products from dust, moisture and tampering during warehousing and delivery.
Reduced Material Use
Current machinery often includes controls designed to limit excess film consumption. This can reduce waste while retaining reliable seals.
Common Uses for Automatic Shrink Wrapping Equipment
Businesses in a wide range of industries rely on automatic machinery for repeatable, high-speed packaging.
Common applications include:
- Food production
- Drinks and beverages
- Household goods
- Books, magazines and other printed goods
- Pharmaceutical products
- 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
- Your required output is increasing
- Packaging quality differs between operators
- 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.
What Features Should You Look for in an Automatic Shrink Wrap Machine?
Different businesses need different machinery, so the correct system will depend on your products and production process.
Useful machine specifications include:
- Production speed
- Supported product sizes
- A reliable sealing system
- Compatible shrink films
- Adjustable temperature controls
- Compatibility with existing conveyors
- Straightforward machine controls check here
- Servicing and maintenance needs
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 better suited to businesses producing hundreds or thousands of packs each day.
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 automated shrink wrapping machines can produce between 25 and 40 packs per minute. For suitable products, high-speed side-sealing machines can process more than 100 packs per minute.
Why Choose Kempner for Automatic Shrink Wrap Machines?
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. Many systems allow operators to change settings for different pack dimensions and product types. 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 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 application and equipment settings.