Buyer guide

How to specify shrinkwrapping machinery

A practical planning guide for shrink wrap machines, L-sealers, sleeve sealers, heat tunnels and sleeve applicators.

1. Start with the pack format

Define whether the machine is wrapping a single product, bundle, tray, bottle sleeve, neck band or capsule. The pack format usually determines the sealing method before speed is discussed.

2. Confirm the film material

Film material affects sealing temperature, tunnel behaviour, pack finish and running cost. Confirm PE, POF, PVC or sleeve material early, including film thickness and any sustainability requirements.

3. Size the tunnel around the product

Tunnel aperture, heated length, conveyor type and airflow pattern should be checked against the product height, width, weight and required finish. Larger packs often need longer dwell time and a heavier-duty conveyor.

4. Prepare a quote checklist

  • Product dimensions and weight
  • Pack pattern and required film finish
  • Target output per minute or hour
  • Available power, compressed air and footprint
  • Upstream and downstream equipment
  • Changeover frequency and operator involvement

Quick answers

Questions buyers ask

Should I choose an L-sealer or sleeve sealer?

Choose an L-sealer or side sealer for individual packs and retail-ready clear film wrapping. Choose a sleeve sealer for multipacks, bottle bundles, trays and heavier transit packs.

Which film should I use?

POF is common for presentation shrink packs, PE is common for heavier bundling and transit packs, and PVC or specialist sleeve materials are used for sleeve label and capsule applications.

What controls throughput?

Throughput is controlled by product size, operator or infeed flow, sealing dwell, film thickness, tunnel length, tunnel temperature, cooling and downstream handling.

Can the machine integrate with an existing line?

Yes, but the infeed height, conveyor speed, pack spacing, guarding, discharge and available utilities need checking before the final specification.