Shrink wrap is exactly that, a thin film of plastic that shrinks over any package. This offers the package superior protection from all elements.

The thin layer of polymer has heat applied. As the plastic heats up, the micro-particles pull together, effectively shrinking the plastic. Any air between the plastic and the package escapes through gaps created by the sealing of the package. This leaves the plastic clinging tightly to the package, creating a ‘second skin’.

So what equipment is used for shrink wrap?

  1. Well the first, and most important equipment is the shrink wrap itself. A plastic wrap is usually a thin polymer, most often polypropylene, that comes in thick rolls. Shrink wrap can be provided by Design Packaging and Tapes.
  2. You’ll also require a sealer. Sealers come in an array of different sizes, with and without a heating element installed. Obviously a large sealer with a heating element included will be a lot more expensive than the smaller handheld models.
  3. If your sealer has no heating element then you will require a heat gut. If your business regularly requires shrink wrapping and shrink wrap supplies, then you should consider getting a heating container or tunnel.

If you have all the right equipment, then you can begin shrink wrapping. Shrink wrap is pretty easy to apply.

  1. Firstly, if you predominantly wrap large packages ie) packages to the standard size of corrugated box, and you wrap regularly, then make sure you use a large sealing machine with a heating tunnel.
  2. Place the object in the shrink roll or bag.
  3. Close the wrap by using a sealer (for smaller packages). Then apply heat by using the heat gun. The plastic should shrink when exposed to the heat gun.
  4. If you have a sealing machine, the wrapped package is simply inserted and automatically sealed as well as heated.

For all your shrink wrap materials, make sure you contact Design Packages and Tapes. We are one of the most experienced packaging suppliers in Johannesburg.