Rising stretch film prices cut into the margin of any stretch wrapping operation. Many operations do not realize there are steps they can take to lower film cost. They need to review film quality and efficiency, and the stretch wrapper system itself. Using the right film and the right system gives the highest efficiency. For many operations, cost reduction starts with the basics: what film you use and how you use it. Film technology and application systems keep improving. Operations that want lower stretch wrap cost should check the items below.
Review the stretch film
New stretch film lines produce better film at thinner gauges. Pre-stretch film lets operations use less material and cut supply cost. In general, pre-stretch film gives strong holding force, better load containment, and higher puncture resistance. Pre-stretch films come in general and special grades for manual and automatic operations.
Machine film: use high-performance pre-stretch film. New machine films generally run from 100% to over 300% pre-stretch. Most applications benefit from 200%+ pre-stretch machine film. If your stretch wrapping system cannot use 200% pre-stretch film, review it and decide if it is outdated. If a low-performance stretch wrapper is behind current performance standards, it may cost too much to keep on the floor. Match film type to the stretch wrapper specifications and limits.
Hand film: use pre-stretch hand film. Hand wrapping with a light, strong hand dispenser provides tension. Manual pre-stretch pallet wrapping has an added benefit: it is less labor-intensive than hand wrapping with standard hand stretch film, and the film is lighter. Note: if the operation runs more than 12 pallets per day, consider an automatic stretch wrapping option to lower cost.
Review the stretch wrapping process
Stretch wrapping varies. Large operations use stretch wrapping equipment. Small operations often use a hand stretch film dispenser. Both can lower cost by using pre-stretch film and choosing a system that gets the most cost efficiency from pre-stretch film.
Machine film application: For operations with stretch wrapping equipment, a new stretch wrapper offers a large advantage. The film use and containment performance cannot be matched by manual application.
Hand application: Manual pallet wrapping can be made more efficient with pre-stretch film. A dispenser provides tension on the pre-stretch film. This lets the film run thinner and stronger and gives better load retention.
Packaging operations that choose the right stretch film and wrapping system can lower cost, improve profit, and gain competitive advantage.
The right product and system solution differs for each operation. Factors to consider include the application, unwind, required throughput speed, available floor space, and load weight, size, stability, and fragility. These factors determine the best solution.
Hansheng Automation machines replacement and custom parts for stretch wrapping machines from customer drawings for one-off and small-batch orders.
