Choosing the Right Stretch Wrappers for Your Business

In busy packaging operations, reducing inefficiency and bottlenecks while supporting high-speed processes, economical solutions, and scalable growth is critical. Fast, flexible, and reliable automatic and semi-automatic stretch wrap machines are effective packaging equipment solutions to help you achieve these goals. This guide will help you determine what type of stretch wrapper is the right fit for your current operations as well as your long-term business plans.

Automatic vs. Semi-Automatic Stretch Wrappers

Modern stretch wrappers often fall into two broad categories: semi-automatic and automatic stretch wrappers. Semi-automatic systems require manual startup, with an operator positioning the load for stretch film application, starting the machine, and then removing the wrapped load. This equipment has a lower initial price than automatic options, making it a smart choice if you have budgetary limitations or infrequently need to wrap loads.

Alternately, fully automated wrappers autonomously feed pallets into the system’s wrap zone, managing their movements through to the endpoint for offloading. They do this by utilizing a set of pre-configured wrap settings within the system controls. This automated equipment also has the ability to time load cycling so that the wrapper will start on the next load when appropriate. While automated solutions have a higher initial price point, they often result in savings over time due to reduced labor demands and enhanced speeds for greater throughput, efficiency, and profits.

Load and Speed Considerations

When you’re deciding which type of wrapping solution is best, there are several different factors to consider.

Load Frequency

First, determine the typical number of loads you need to wrap over the course of a day or week. Then, try to forecast for any potential future increases. If your operation consistently has a high volume of loads that need wrapping, automatic stretch wrappers are likely the better choice.

Load Size

While your pallets may be a standard size, the loads on top of them may not be. Some loads stick out over the edges of a pallet, while some are much taller or shorter than others. Categorize your loads into A, B, and C load profiles by their size, edge profile, stacked stability, and general uniformity. Make sure your final wrapper selection is compatible with the required load profile.

Load Weight

Heavy loads can be harder to move and wrap, especially if you’re relying on manual processes. Choose machinery that can adequately handle your anticipated load weights.

Speed

Automated systems are faster than semi-automated machines, so decide how important speed is to your operation and production schedules. Your system ultimately needs to be able to keep up with the output from your production, assembly, or packaging lines.

Types of Stretch Wrappers

Once you understand which factors and capabilities matter most to your organization, consider the different types of stretch wrappers available:

• Turntable stretch wrapper: This versatile equipment is adjustable, making it suitable for many different load types. With the load rotating on a turntable, the wrapper applies stretch film to it from bottom to top, then top to bottom.
• Rotary arm wrapper: In these systems, the load remains stationary, with a rotating arm moving the stretch wrap around it. They’re fast and can accommodate a range of load types and weights.
• Automatic rotary arm wrapper: With an automatic wrapper, you can program the unit with your preferred tension, quantity of stretch film wrap layers, and other specific parameters, and the system will consistently wrap loads with minimal manual intervention.
• Ring or orbital wrapper: Conveyors move pallets through orbital stretch wrappers, which apply wrapping over and under the pallets. This equipment wraps everything from pipes and rolls of carpeting to irregularly shaped items.
• Ring straddle wrapper: A more uncommon variety, this specialized wrapper operates at high speeds. It’s capable of wrapping several hundred loads each hour.
• A-ARM stretch wrapper: After you’ve positioned and dropped the load with a forklift, the wrapper will utilize patented A-ARM technology to attach the film, wrap the load, and cut the wrapping when complete. The automated cutter leaves the tail of the film securely attached to the load’s top to prevent drag. With wireless remote-start capabilities, you’ll never have to leave the seat of your forklift.
• Overhead stretch wrapper: Overhead stretch wrappers move around a load, wrapping it utilizing rotating film cartridges. Available in semi- or fully automatic models, they’re useful for heavy and unstable or lightweight and fragile loads.
• Horizontal stretch wrapper: These systems’ horizontal design enables you to incorporate them with conveyors for continuous, automated wrap cycles and enhanced productivity.
• Mobile stretch wrapper: Mobile units are smaller and easily portable. You can wheel this compact equipment through standard doorways and to different areas within a facility to carry out wrapping tasks wherever there’s a need.

Contact TPC Packaging for Stretch Wrappers

At TPC Packaging Solutions, we’re committed to helping manufacturers and distribution centers get the right stretch wrappers and packaging equipment to optimize their operations. Contact us today to learn more about our extensive equipment solutions.