Automated stretch wrapping technologies have developed a notable following among manufacturers of many industries due to their versatility and customizable options. As these technologies can be equipped with countless engineering innovations, and come in a variety of system forms, they can provide the benefits of automated packaging in almost any application, no matter the products involved.

Stretch wrapping is the ideal end of line wrapping solution for virtually all production lines and industries. When it comes to reducing unnecessary labor and material costs, there are few technologies more lucrative in packaging than automated stretch wrapping.

Different Automation Types

Before we can even get into the unique,
technical customizations of today’s stretch
wrapping machines, there’s already a split in equipment based on automation types: fully automated or semi-automated. Of these two different types, manufacturers interested in automation technologies select the most practical systems for their product speeds and needs.

For instance, fully automated stretch wrappers are impractical in manufacturing lines with low speeds, such as those with pallet speeds of less than 30 units per hour. In these cases, a semi-automatic stretch wrapper is much more suitable, and can still provide the great benefits of packaging automation without detracting from efficiency like a fully automatic system would (in this case).

On the other hand, for packaging operations that process anywhere from 30 to 120 loads an hour, fully automatic stretch wrappers are a perfect fit. With these systems installed, workers will never have to take part in the wrapping process, save for refilling the system with wrapping once it runs out. Full packaging automation completely eliminates the wasteful, tedious labor of manual packaging.

Wrapper Types and Innovative Engineering

Beyond semi- and fully-automated wrapping systems,
there is a wide array of stretch wrapping model types and configurations for unique applications; these various types allow manufacturers in virtually any industry to get the direct benefits of automated wrapping technology.

For instance, conveyorized stretch wrapping machines are easily integrated automation tools, compatible in any production packaging line. These solutions drastically lower time spent manually handling package loads, while also offering variable throughput speed settings, which can be set to match your existing operation.

Similar to conveyorized machines in their benefits, turntable pallet wrapping machines are perfect for pallet jack loading and fork lift loading applications, and can effectively wrap pallet load of up for 4,000 lbs.

Automated rotary tower wrapping systems are the ideal stretch wrapping solutions for large-scale warehouse operations, and can be mounted on two- or three-way stands for optimized results. These systems feature a very open configuration, allowing for easy component access and servicing.

More specialized stretch wrapping automation models include roll wrappers, window and door stretch wrappers, six-sided stretch wrappers and mini wrapping systems; all of which are ideally suited for unique applications, and can be further customized with innovative engineering additions.

The end of line automation upgrades that many manufacturers choose to integrate with their stretch wrapping machines can both boost productivity and cut back on excessive wrapping costs. Some of these innovations to stretch wrapping technologies are:

• Automated infeed and in-process top sheet dispensers, which add protective pallet coverings instantaneously during wrapping applications
• Advanced software options and operator interfaces for expanded control and variable settings
• Fully automated film force-to-load control
• Stretch roping capabilities, ideal for automated packaging of organic products requiring oxygen (an absolute necessity in grocery and food packaging applications)
• Along with variable speeds, variable wrap patterns to form the strongest seal possible for your pallet loads
• Robotic corner board applicators, which fix protective corner boars to pallet loads automatically

In all, these unique stretch wrapping customization options make it possible for manufacturers and product distributors in any industry to reap the benefits of packaging automation, and improve overall efficiency in their daily operations.

Whatever specific end of line automation requirements your business calls for, there are innovative new systems available that can meet those needs, and help you both save money and improve the efficiency of your packaging.

To learn more about modern innovations to stretch wrapping automation, or for more information on ways to improve your facility’s productivity while also cutting back on unnecessary packaging costs, contact us today.