A shrink wrapper is a vital part of the world of packaging solutions. Businesses whose main focus is selling goods count on protective wrapping to safely deliver and preserve products to clients or customers.

What is a Shrink Wrapper?

A shrink wrapper or shrink-wrapping machine covers a product in a protective plastic shrink film to secure it and prevent tampering. The name comes from the fact that if heat is applied, the film tightens around the item to protect it from damage. Commonly, industries such as food, beverage, cosmetics, and electronics rely on shrink wrapping to safely deliver products intact.

Difference Between a Shrink Wrapper and Stretch Wrapper

Shrink wrap varies from stretch wrap.

Stretch Wrap Shrink Wrap
·       Wrapped tightly around a product

·       Stretchable plastic (good elasticity)

·       Does not shrink with applied heat

·       Commonly used to wrap pallets of products

 ·       Wrapped loosely around a product

·       Not stretchable (no elasticity)

·       Shrinks once heat is applied

·       Commonly used to wrap and protect one product such as furniture or food

 

What is Shrink Wrap Made Of?

Shrink wrap or shrink film is typically made from synthetic plastic (polymer) materials, most commonly polyethylene (PE) or polyolefin.

Polyethylene (PE) is versatile, widely used, and comes in different forms. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is used for products that need to be visible due to its high transparency and clarity. Comparatively, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is firmer with higher tensile strength, so it is used for heavy items or covering a product’s label or outside.

Polyolefin shrink wrap is a blend of different polymers and is both highly transparent, clear, and durable. Typically used for “point of purchase” packages where the product needs to be visible through the shrink film but also securely protected.

The type of shrink film used depends on different factors: the type of product, the level of protection needed, and the aesthetic wanted.

How is Shrink Wrap Useful?

  • Cost Savings & Efficiency: Reduced labor and material costs create long-term savings for businesses by streamlining the packaging process.
  • Protection: Provide a protective barrier against moisture, dust, and other environmental and manmade elements to extend a product’s shelf life.
  • Tamper Resistance: Shrink-wrapped goods are less prone to tampering, increasing consumer trust and product integrity.
  • Customization: Advanced shrink wrap machines have easily adjustable settings; businesses can tailor packaging for customized product dimensions.
  • Bundling: Bundle multiple items together to reduce the risk of items getting separated; simplify handling and losing goods.
  • Faster Turnaround: Expedite the packaging process for quicker order fulfillment and higher customer satisfaction.
  • Diversity: Shrink wrap is versatile; it can be used for various product types, shapes, and sizes.
  • Levels of Visibility: Choose the transparency of shrink wrap and allow consumers to see the product before purchase, which can increase sales.
  • Consistency: Ensure uniform packaging and enhance the overall aesthetics of any product.
  • Boosted Brand Perception: Professional packaging communicates a positive “arrival experience”.
  • Weight Protection: Shrink wrappers offer weight protection by securing items and preventing movement. This minimizes damage during handling and transit.
  • Waste Reduction: Shrink wrapping uses less material compared to other packaging methods (such as Styrofoam); sustainable materials.

 

How Can Shrink Wrapper Benefit My Products?

Food & Beverage: Preserve the freshness and prevent contamination of perishable or glassed goods.

Consumer Goods and Industrial: Shield electronics and household items from scratches; contain dust from cosmetics. Machinery parts and industrial components are securely bundled for safe transportation.

The Mechanics of Shrink Wrapper Machines

A conveyor system moves the products into the shrink film dispenser. Then, the wrapped product goes into a heat tunnel where the heat is controlled and regulated. Heat seals and shrinks the film edges around a product to create a secure, conformed enclosure. The shrink film is cooled and solidified to create a tight fit.

Count on Fastpak for Your Business’ Shrink Wrap Needs

Shrink wrapper makes shipping goods of any size efficient and consistent. It’s important to choose the appropriate shrink film material and thickness to ensure the best results for your packaging needs.

Contact Fastpak today to see how we can increase security for your business’s goods through our shrink wrapper machines and tools.