Types of wrapping machines

A packaging machine is an industrial-scale device that wraps products to facilitate storage, shipment, and sales. In conjunction with other packaging machines, a wrapping machine forms an important part of a packaging line for non-food items. For food items, it may also be a significant part of an essential food preparation line.

Wrapping machines come in different types to accommodate various products, packaging materials, and production requirements. It includes manual and automatic packaging machines, with the latter typically being more commercially viable and efficient. Specialized machines, too, are required for irregularly shaped, oversized objects, along with those for heavyweight ones, such as pallet wrapping machines. These include:

An automatic carton packaging machine that automatically boxes items in a pre-made container, seals the top of the container, and then wraps it.
An automatic shrink-wrapping machine performs the same functions as an automatic flow wrapping machine but uses heat to shrink the film around the product.
An automatic stretch wrapping machine applies a stretchable plastic film to wrap around the items, usually with the help of a rotating platform or dispenser.
An automatic skin packaging machine uses vacuum packaging to pull the package tightly around the product, providing a secure and contoured fit.
An automatic tray packaging machine is designed to wrap food items on trays. They are often used in the meat, poultry, and seafood industries to package individual portions or bulk quantities of food items for retail or food service.

Specification & Maintenance

Before purchasing, it is essential to check the configuration and parameters of the bundle machine as well as the relevant packaging requirements. The following specifications are typically available.

Applicable: Size this parameter describes the applicable dimensions of the packaging item, including length, width, and height.
Packaging Speed: Packaging speed mentioned before, represented in packages per minute or hour.
Film Width: Film width corresponds to the width of the packaging film, which determines the maximum width of the packaging item that can be accommodated.
Power Supply: Power supply is represented in volts (V) and includes options such as AC 110V/220V, etc.
Machine Weight: The machine's weight is essential for handling and transportation considerations. The weight is generally expressed in kilograms (kg).
Film Material: Packaging machines usually use different types of packaging films, such as PVC, PE, PP, etc. The choice of film material can affect the packaging quality and performance.

In addition to the parameters above, some packaging machines may also include features like coding, printing, and labeling functions. Packaging machines require regular maintenance to ensure proper functioning and extend equipment life. The following are some common maintenance methods for packaging machines:

Clean: Regularly remove the packaging machine and clean it with water or a cleanser. Clean the surface of the machine, the internal parts, and the packaging materials to avoid contamination and maintain hygiene.
Lubrication: Apply oil to the moving parts of the packaging machine regularly, such as bearings, gears, etc. Lubing helps reduce friction and abrasion, ensuring the smooth operation of the machine.
Inspection: Regularly inspect the packaging machines for any abnormalities, such as loose parts, leaks, etc. Timely adjustment and repair to ensure the normal operation of the equipment.
Replace the parts: Packaging machines often suffer from friction and damage, especially the packaging films. Replacing the damaged parts helps maintain the performance and quality of the packaging machines.
Dust removal: Remove the dust from the surface of the packaging machines with a blower or vacuum to avoid blocking the circuits and affecting the performance of the machines.
Preventive maintenance: Regular preventive maintenance for packaging machines as required. Check and calibrate the machine, change the oil, etc. This helps to minimize equipment failure and breakdown risk.

Applications of wrapping machines

A wrapping machine is essential to the final step in the production and fulfillment process for many industries. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, pallets are one of the three most common ways to package and transport products.

Packaging products and preventing shrinkage during transportation is crucial in many industries. Food & Beverage Manufacturing uses wrapping machines to safely transport products. Most products produced are perishable, and packaging them securely is essential to keep them fresh and intact. Wrapping machines also streamline the process.

Other industries, such as the Pharmaceutical, Cosmetics, and Household Product industries, have also adopted wrapping machines to package their products securely for transportation and to extend their shelf lives. Many consumables have fast-moving expiration dates, and companies want to do everything they can to ensure their products are still sellable when they're ready to be sold.

The Industrial and Ecommerce sectors also use wrapping machines to package their products securely for transportation. Wrapping machines help secure packages and streamline the process, making them vital in these two sectors.

Wrapping machines aren't limited to palletizing bottles and boxes. Other industries, such as the Agriculture industry, also use wrapping machines to package their products. Many agriculture products are shipped worldwide, and securing them safely is essential to ensure they don't go to waste and lose the farming industry its valuable revenue.

In the above-mentioned industries and countless more, wrapping machines wrap pallets, cartons, and products in plastic film for protection and containment during transportation, storage, and handling.

How to choose wrapping machines

Consider the following factors of product types and requirements before buying wrapping machines.

Packaging Required

Seeking the kinds of products that need to be wrapped and their shapes and sizes. For instance, irregular-shaped packages may require a custom-made or robust wrapping machine that can handle unique shapes.
Volume and Speed

Production rate demands are also crucial factors in selecting the wrapping machine. They directly affect the machine's capacity and speed. Ensure that the chosen machine can meet the required packaging volume and speed, with a suitable feeding system and processing rate.
Packaging Materials

The wrapping machine must be compatible with the required packaging materials. The materials' texture, dimensions, and closure methods should be considered to ensure smooth and efficient wrapping.
Wrapping Techniques

Select the most appropriate wrapping technique based on specific needs, such as shrink wrapping, flow pack wrapping, or stretch film wrapping.
Automation Level

Depending on the specific requirements, consider the automation level of the wrapping machine, which can impact productivity, efficiency, and ease of operation.

Additionally, consulting with packaging suppliers or industry experts can provide valuable insights into the most suitable wrapping machine for specific packaging needs. It's also essential to consider the total cost of ownership, including maintenance and operating costs, when selecting a wrapping machine. By thoroughly assessing these factors, businesses can confidently choose the wrapping machine that best meets their packaging requirements and contributes to their operational efficiency.

Wrapping machine Q&A

Q1: How fast can a wrapping machine wrap packages?

A1: The wrapping speed depends on several factors. Firstly, the type of wrapping machine will affect speed. Secondly, whether the package is prepared for wrapping is another factor. Human intervention needed for a packaged item will slow the process. Conveyor speed can be adjusted to match the pace of other production lines.

Q2: Are wrapping machines used for shrink wrap?

A2: Yes, a wrapping machine is used to wrap products with shrink film. The item is wrapped with the film using a wrapping machine. Heat is then applied to shrink the film tightly around the item.

Q3: What is the difference between a wrapping machine and a packaging machine?

A3: A wrapping machine is a type of packaging machine. Many other packaging machines exist, such as filling machines, sealing machines, and labeling machines. Some may do all three in one, but none are necessarily wrapping machines.

Q4: Can all wrapping machines be integrated with other packaging lines?

A4: Not all wrapping machines can be integrated with other packaging lines. It depends on the machine's specifications, capabilities, and the packaging line in question. Manufacturers are often able to customize machines to integrate lines for customers.