If you're planning on purchasing a stretch wrapper, you probably already understand the benefits of them and the value that they'll add to your business. They'll handle your secondary packaging needs with ease and precision. The decision to purchase a stretch wrapper is an easy one. Next, you'll need to decide what kind of stretch wrapping machine will best suit your needs. There are a lot of factors that you need to consider before selecting a stretch wrapping machine, but that doesn't mean the process has to be difficult. Here are five questions to ask before you buy a stretch wrapper that will help you narrow down your options.
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Before you choose, you'll need to understand the difference between semi-automatic and automatic machines. A semi-automatic machine is better at handling low-volume applications. These machines require an operator to place the pallet loads on the machine and apply the film tail. The machine will then apply the film and wrap the pallet load. Automatic machines don't require operator intervention, which makes them an ideal choice for high-volume operations.
The size of the pallets you normally use is a huge factor that you'll need to consider when selecting the right machine. You need a stretch wrapping machine that can accommodate both your smallest and largest pallet sizes. If most of your pallet loads are larger than average, you may want to consider a machine with a larger turntable or wrap zone. A load that's taller than average, on the other hand, may require an extended mast.
The color of the product will determine the type of photo-eye you'll need. The photo-eye is used to determine when to stop at the top of the pallet load. If you're wrapping dark-colored or clear products, you may need a black photo-eye or a laser sensor, as standard photo-eyes may have trouble registering them.
Your current and projected production levels are an important factor to consider when determining the kind of machine you should get. This is because different machines will offer different top-end revolutions per minute. The revolutions per minute and total wraps required per load will determine the maximum production level of the machine. Heavier, taller pallets will require more top and bottom wraps, along with overall wraps, while lighter, shorter pallets require less. Make sure to keep this in mind when you're shopping for machines.
Another question to ask before you buy a stretch wrapper is whether the company you're planning to buy from is reliable. It might be tempting to buy a cheap machine from a sketchy company just to save money, but we highly advise against this. A machine bought from an untrustworthy company may be inefficient and even downright unsafe. To ensure you get the most out of your stretch wrapping machine, purchase it from a company that uses superior technology and puts the quality of its machines first and foremost.
Robopac USA provides Cube Technology and R-Connect to make the wrapping process seamless and easy. Our automatic stretch wrapping machines and other packaging machinery save you time, money, and more. We offer support and professional installation as well, so you won't ever have to worry if you encounter a problem in your process.
Purchasing a stretch wrapper doesn't have to be a complicated, painful process. However, spending some time answering a few, simple questions can help you find the right machine that balances your needs, budget, and efficiency.
Yes, you'll need to choose between a semi-automatic or automatic stretch wrapping machine. However, there can be a surprising amount of variability and options within each of these categories. We have 15 questions below that will help you and your stretch wrapping machine rep navigate those options, but understanding why you should answer them is important.
Things like pallet size, load height, and load weight can have a big impact on which machine will work best.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of paper roll wrapping machine. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
If the pallets you normally use are larger than the commonly used 40-by-48 in pallets, you might need a larger turntable or wrap zone. Using pallets that extend past the turntable or wrap zone can be dangerous, so it's important to get the right size.
Your load height also has an impact on the size of machine components. For instance, the standard wrap height on a semi-automatic stretch wrapper in 80in tall. If your loads are going to be taller than that, they you will need to consider an extended mast.
Extremely light or extremely heavy loads also should be taken into consideration when looking at options. A stretch wrapper with a top platen is sometimes used to stabilize or hold down light or unstable loads.
While a straddle style wrapper with a wrap arm that rotates around the pallet is more appropriate for extremely heavy (greater than 5,000 pounds) loads.
Each of these 15 questions will help you narrow down your stretch wrapping machine requirements, and help you focus in on the options you might like to add.
Get more information on the key decisions around buying a semi-automatic stretch wrapper collected in one compact, easy to read guide. Download our free Stretch Wrapper Buying Guide now.
This post was published on July 26, and updated on November 22, .
For more information, please visit Orbital Film Wrapping Systems.