Pallet Wrapping Machine & Pallet Wrapper Suppliers

There are many benefits a pallet wrapping machine can bring to your business.

• Pallet wrapping machines can reduce the manual labour, which also means that the time is saved.
• A pallet wrapping machine can stretch the wrap at 200% to 300% to the stretch length, whereas a human can only apply at an average of 10% to 20%. Hence, a machine uses less plastic than by hand. It will also save on the consumption of the stretch used.
• In addition to cost and time saving, a pallet wrapping machine can reduce potential injuries that may happen from hand wrapping pallets, and as the time saving, workers can do other jobs which also means an increase in productivity.

It’s a big decision and investment when considering buying a new or upgrading your current pallet wrapping machine. Below are some of the key factors that should help you choose the right pallet wrapper for your business.

• Defining your demand: Ask yourself and your organisation a few questions - How busy is your production now and what is potential growth in the future? How many pallets do you have to wrap per day? A semi-automatic or automatic pallet wrapper would serve you right if your production needs to manage more than 10 pallets per day and a few loads per hour. On the other side, you can also consider a manual stretch wrapper. Selecting the right one will maximise your return on investment.
• Pallet Configuration: The loads can be uniform and non-uniform. Size, weight and height of the loads will be influencing the choice of pallet wrapping machine. A turntable semi-automatic and automatic stretch wrapper will be suitable for uniform, stable, and adequately tall pallets. On the other hand, orbital, horizontal, or rotary arm wrapping machines are more useful for non-uniform heavy loads of any height. Manual stretch wrappers are well-equipped for uniform and stable loads, regardless of height.
• Identifying must-have features: It could be a low-profile turntable stretch wrapper or you need a ramp so pallets can be loaded by pallet trucks or fork trucks. It could support conveyor systems in the production line. A scale is installed on a pallet wrapper.

There are many different types of brands and configurations of stretch wrap film. It is basically divided into two categories: manual stretch film and machine stretch film. The variations are all about guage and application because of the differences in load types and volumes. Using the right type is very important to maximise the efficiency and effectiveness of the wrap film.

• Manual Stretch Film: It is specially applied manually and utilised in lower volume packaging operations.
• Cast Stretch Film: It is manufactured using the cast extrusion process and also known as Cast Film or Cast Wrap. It is generally excellent clarity,  easy to stretch, offer a superior cling, tear resistance and consistent thickness. 
• Blown Stretch Film: It is manufactured from the blown extrusion process. It is not as clear as the cast film. Blown pallet wrap is stronger and has excellent puncture resistance.

The answer is no. It is determined by the resins formulation of the stretch wrap. Consuming the proper amount of stretch film will minimise the impact on the environment and save cost.

• Make sure you choose the right stretch film with good quality. As there are many types of stretch wrap in the market today. You might need to get consulted by an expert.
• Control the amount of overlap a pallet wrapper is applying. It is suggested that the overlap rate fluctuates between 25% -50%. Less or more than this will cause the wrap unstable and weak or a waste of wrap. 
• Ensure a proper tension is applied to the wrap. Too loose will cause insecurity and instability of the loads. Too tight will result in load weakness and be easy to break.
• Ensure the rollers are clean. The stretch wrap is passing through the rollers smoothly.
• Ask the machine operators to ensure everything is in good working condition.

There are a variety of mistakes that can occur when using a pallet wrapper. Whether it is caused by humans or incorrect settings on machines which lead to product damages and wastes.

• Using the wrong type and size of stretch film: It not only results in waste of materials, but also causes downtime, costly repairs and safety issues. To avoid such mistakes, a key important thing is to learn about stretch wrap types, applications and machines they should be used.
• Tearing stretch film: One of the most common issues is wrap tearing. When it happens it means your pallet is in instability, unsafe and load containment has been compromised. The risk of safety hazards, injury, product defect and downtime are likely highly. How to avoid the tear of stretch film?
  • Avoiding load breakages: Lowering the tension of the film can work if you add more film layers. 
  • Avoiding wrong settings: make sure the stretch wrap is passed through rollers properly and the tension level is set correctly.
• Not enough stretch wrap: Make sure that you have enough stretch wrap for securing your loads. Especially, when you use a manual stretch wrapper.
• Choosing the wrong pallet: It can cause several problems when transporting the pallets. There are potential risks when you try to lift or handle an unsecured pallet. Make sure that your pallet is in good condition and large enough to secure the loads.
• Improper stacking on the pallet: Only stacking cartons that fit on the pallet nicely is not ready to stretch wrap yet. You should distribute the weight of the pallets evenly by arranging the heaviest cartons at the bottom.

There is no doubt that scheduled maintenance is conducted on your pallet wrapper to keep it in good working condition, increase the durability, reduce the downtime and defects.

A regular maintenance includes daily, monthly and quarterly checking.

• Visually check the pallet wrapper clean and free from the debris on a daily basis.
• Check and visually inspect the control devices, all the switches, sensors or photocell on a monthly basis.
• Lubricate grease points such as gear, chain, drive chain, rack on a quarterly basis.
• Inspect and check the tension of the turntable drive chain and roller on a quarterly basis.

Entry-level pallet wrapping machine prices start at $5,000. It is variable depending on the size of the pallet being wrapped in terms of width, depth, and height. A semi-automatic or automatic pallet wrapper can cost around $9,500 to $17,000.  A rotary arm machine is a bit more expensive, around $17,000 to $24,000 and assembly and installation is required for these machines.