This equipment uses heat to apply a tight, protective film around products. A thin plastic film, often made of polyolefin, PVC, or other specialized materials, is placed around an item and then exposed to a heat source. This causes the film to shrink tightly, conforming to the product’s shape. Common applications include wrapping food items, bundling multiple products together, and protecting goods during shipping and storage. A variety of sizes and configurations exist, from small, handheld devices for low-volume operations to large, automated systems integrated into high-speed production lines.
The process offers several advantages, including enhanced product protection from environmental factors like moisture and dust, tamper evidence, improved shelf appeal through neat and attractive presentation, and optimized storage and transport through compact bundling. The development of this technology significantly improved packaging efficiency and product safety across various industries, from food and beverages to electronics and pharmaceuticals. It evolved from early shrink wrap films and simple heat guns to sophisticated, automated systems with precise temperature controls and high throughput capabilities.