Comprehensive Guide to Industrial Wrapping

You've probably seen industrial wrapping around all sorts of products, from pallets of bottled water to boxes of electronics. But do you really know what goes into a good industrial wrap job? At InkJet, we make industrial wrapping equipment for companies big and small. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything wrapping - from the different types of wrappers to why a quality wrap matters for your products. We'll even share why our Cyklop brand wrappers lead the industry. Whether you're just getting started with wrapping or want to step up your packaging game, read on to become a pro.

What Is Industrial Wrapping?

Industrial wrapping, also known as pallet wrapping, is the process of securely containing goods on pallets for storage and transportation. Industrial wrapping equipment, like stretch wrappers and shrink wrappers, use plastic film to firmly encase pallet loads.

Why Is Industrial Wrapping Important?

Industrial wrapping stabilizes pallet loads during transit, preventing damage and product loss. It also improves product appearance and protects goods from environmental exposure. For many manufacturers, industrial wrapping is a critical part of the packaging process that ensures products arrive at their destination intact and ready to sell.

Types of Wrapping Equipment

There are several types of industrial wrapping equipment:

• Turntable wrappers rotate the pallet while dispensing film for complete, uniform coverage. These are very popular and well-suited for high-volume operations.
• Arm wrappers have an articulated arm that moves up and down and side to side, wrapping film around the pallet load. They require more floor space but can handle larger pallet sizes.
• Robot wrappers use robotic arms to pick up and manipulate rolls of film, providing flexibility and precision. They are ideal for complex pallet loads but tend to have a higher cost.
• Horizontal wrappers convey the pallet load through a wrapping tunnel. They are very fast, capable of wrapping up to 120 pallets per hour, but require a major capital investment.
• Ring wrappers are inexpensive but only suitable for light-duty wrapping of smaller pallet loads. The pallet rotates inside a fixed ring of film.

At InkJet, Inc., we specialize in semi-automatic and fully automatic wrapping solutions from Cyklop, a leader in industrial packaging technology. Cyklop wrappers are durable, easy to operate, and provide superior wrap quality and consistency so you can move more products with confidence. Let us help you choose the right wrapper for your production needs.

Why Is Industrial Wrapping Important?

Industrial wrapping, also known as stretch wrapping, is crucial for protecting products during shipping and storage. As an engineer, you know that proper wrapping can prevent damage, keep items securely contained, and even improve efficiency.

For starters, wrapping stabilizes loads by binding items together and to pallets. This prevents shifting that could lead to dents, scratches or even collapsed stacks. Wrapping also protects against weather by creating a barrier against moisture, dirt and debris.

What’s more, wrapping allows for efficient handling and storage. Secured loads can be moved by forklift or crane without worry of items toppling over. And tightly wrapped pallets take up less space, so you can store more in your warehouse.

Cost and Time Savings

When done automatically using equipment like semi-automatic or fully automatic wrappers, industrial wrapping can significantly cut costs and reduce time spent on manual wrapping. Workers are freed up to focus on other tasks, and companies see major savings through:

• Reduced product damage. Secured loads minimize the risk of dents, dings and breakage during transit and storage.
• Maximized space. Tightly wrapped pallets take up less room, increasing storage capacity.
• Improved load stability. Properly wrapped loads stay intact, allowing for faster and more efficient handling and shipping.
• Decreased material waste. Automatic wrappers apply just the right amount of film for optimum protection and minimal excess.

Using a high-quality wrapper from a reputable brand like Cyklop helps ensure maximum cost and time savings. Their range of semi-automatic and fully automatic equipment provides fast, efficient wrapping for loads of all shapes and sizes.

Wrapper Applications in Industries

If you work in manufacturing or production, industrial wrapping equipment is essential for efficiently and securely packaging your goods. Turntable wrappers are one of the most versatile types, used for wrapping anything from boxes and cartons to bundles and pallets. The turntable rotates the product as stretch film or shrink wrap is applied to ensure even coverage.

For wrapping long or oddly-shaped products, arm wrappers are ideal. An articulated arm moves above and around the product, precisely applying the wrapping material. Arm wrappers can wrap up to 60 loads per hour and are commonly used for furniture, windows, doors, and lumber.

When speed and high volume are priorities, robotic wrappers are the way to go. Programmable robotic arms can wrap up to 120 loads per hour with precision and consistency. Robotic wrappers are popular for packaging beverages, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals.

If you're wrapping multiple individual products or open trays at once, a ring wrapper or horizontal wrapper will do the trick. These continuous motion machines wrap rows of product as they move along a conveyor, with rates up to 200 packages per minute. Bakeries, snack food producers, and other food manufacturers often rely on ring and horizontal wrappers.

For many industries, semi-automatic and fully automatic wrappers from Cyklop provide efficient, customizable solutions. Cyklop's turntable, arm, ring and horizontal wrappers offer adjustable speeds, programmable settings for different products, and user-friendly controls to maximize productivity. When you need a wrapping system tailored to your precise needs, Cyklop delivers.

Whether you're wrapping pallets, individual products, or something in between, there's an industrial wrapper to suit your needs. The key is finding the right combination of speed, versatility, and customization for your particular application. With the range of options available, you can achieve secure, efficient packaging for maximum productivity and throughput.

Types of Industrial Wrapping Equipment

Turntable Wrappers

Turntable wrappers, as the name suggests, wrap products on a rotating platform. This allows the wrapping material to be applied evenly from all sides. Turntable wrappers are ideal for wrapping irregular or asymmetrical products. The rotating action also provides increased production speeds compared to other wrapping methods.

Arm Wrappers

Arm wrappers utilize a robotic arm to pick up and manipulate the product during the wrapping process. The arm rotates and moves the product so that wrapping material can be applied to all sides. Arm wrappers provide flexibility to handle a variety of product shapes and sizes. They are also capable of higher speeds than turntable or horizontal wrappers. However, arm wrappers typically have a higher initial cost.

Robot Wrappers

Robot wrappers take the automation of arm wrappers to another level by incorporating vision systems and advanced robotics. Robotic wrappers can identify the product, pick it up, rotate and maneuver it as needed to apply wrapping material, and then pack the product for shipping. Robot wrappers provide the highest level of automation and speed but also the highest costs. They are best suited for high volume operations.

Horizontal Wrappers

Horizontal wrappers convey the product through the wrapping machine on a conveyor belt. Wrapping material is then applied from the sides as the product moves through. Horizontal wrappers are limited to products that can be conveyed and wrapped from the sides. However, they provide an economical wrapping solution for most standard box shapes. Horizontal wrappers can be either semi-automatic or fully automatic.

In summary, there are several types of industrial wrapping equipment to choose from depending on your specific needs and budget. Cyklop offers semi-auto and fully-automatic wrappers to suit every level of production. With the right wrapping equipment, you can achieve maximum efficiency and productivity in your operations.

Turntable Wrappers: A Versatile Option

Turntable wrappers are one of the most versatile types of industrial wrapping equipment. As the name suggests, a turntable wrapper uses a rotating platform to wrap products as they spin.This allows the wrapper to secure items of various shapes and sizes.

Turntable wrappers are ideal for wrapping irregularly-shaped products that can be difficult to wrap using other methods. The spinning action allows the wrapper to secure all sides of the product evenly and efficiently. These wrappers can also handle a high volume of products, making them a great choice for large operations.

Cyklop’s brand offers both semi-automatic and fully automatic turntable wrapper models to suit your production needs. The semi-automatic models require an operator to manually load and unload products, while the automatic models use conveyors to automatically feed products into and out of the wrapper.

Key Features of Turntable Wrappers

Some of the key features found on Cyklop turntable wrappers include:

• Rotating turntable platform for wrapping products from all sides
• Adjustable wrapping arms to secure different sized products
• Various film cutting options (hot wire, blade, or perforation)
• Optional date stamping and labeling equipment
• Available in stainless steel construction for food packaging
• Can handle up to 40-50 packs per minute depending on model

Turntable wrappers provide maximum flexibility and high-volume productivity. For wrapping uniquely-shaped products or managing a fast-paced packaging operation, a turntable wrapper should be at the top of your list. InkJet's CYKLOP brand offers durable, high-quality turntable wrappers to get the job done.

Arm Wrappers for Efficient Palletizing

Arm wrappers, also known as rotary arm wrappers, are a popular choice for industrial pallet wrapping. These machines automatically wrap loaded pallets with packaging film for stability and protection during shipping and storage. If you’re looking to improve your palletizing operations, an arm wrapper could be the perfect solution.

Versatile and Customizable

Arm wrappers can handle a wide range of pallet sizes and loads. Their articulating arms move up, down, and rotate to wrap the film around the pallet. The wrapping pattern, number of revolutions, and amount of film used is fully programmable to suit your needs. Multiple programs can be saved for different products or customer specifications.

High Production Speeds

Compared to hand wrapping or turntable wrappers, arm wrappers are much faster and more efficient. They can wrap up to 35-40 pallets per hour, reducing labor costs and increasing your throughput. The pallet remains stationary during wrapping, so the process is smooth and efficient.

Tight, Secure Wrapping

The articulating arms on an arm wrapper provide very tight, secure wrapping by applying uniform pressure around the entire pallet load. This helps keep products stable and prevents shifting during transit, ensuring your shipments arrive intact. The tight wrap also provides an extra layer of protection from environmental exposure.

Cost Effective

While arm wrappers do require a significant initial investment, they can save you money in the long run through labor savings, reduced product damage, and improved load stability. The high-quality, durable construction of arm wrappers also ensures a long service life, often 10-15 years with proper maintenance.

If you’re looking to streamline your palletizing and improve load stability, an arm wrapper from Cyklop could be an ideal solution. Our machines are versatile, high-speed, and provide superior wrap quality to keep your products safe through the supply chain.

Robot Wrappers: The Future of Automation

In the world of high-volume wrapping, robot wrappers reign supreme. These fully automated systems can wrap up to 80 loads per hour with precision and consistency. If your operation demands maximum throughput and productivity, a robot wrapper should be at the top of your list.

Robot wrappers utilize articulated robotic arms to automatically lift, rotate, and wrap pallet loads and products. The robots are programmed to handle loads of varying sizes, shapes, and weights with custom wrapping patterns tailored to your needs. Compared to manual or semi-automatic wrappers, robot wrappers minimize labor requirements and increase overall equipment effectiveness.

Higher Productivity

Robot wrappers can achieve up to 2-3 times the throughput of a typical semi-automatic wrapper. With quick load handling and wrapping, they maximize your line efficiency and overall productivity. For high-volume operations, this improved throughput translates into major cost savings.

Increased Flexibility

Robot wrappers can be programmed to handle a wide range of load sizes, from small cartons to full pallets. They can also perform complex wrapping patterns with precision, including corner boards, top sheets, and banding. This flexibility allows you to run varying load types through the same wrapper.

Reduced Labor Costs

Fully automated robot wrappers require minimal operator intervention. After the loads are presented, the robot takes over to lift, rotate, and wrap the load. This significantly reduces labor demands and lowers your long-term operating costs.

Improved Safety

Robot wrappers minimize the risks associated with manual load handling and wrapping. Operators are removed from physically lifting and rotating loads, reducing the chance of strains, sprains, and other injuries. Automation also provides more consistent wrapping, decreasing risks like unstable or improperly wrapped loads.

For high-volume wrapping applications where maximum productivity, flexibility, and cost-efficiency are required, robot wrappers are an ideal solution. They represent the future of automated wrapping and will transform your packaging operation.

Horizontal Wrappers for High Speed Production

Horizontal wrapping machines are ideal for companies focused on high-volume production. These fully automatic wrappers can process up to 200 packages per minute, making them one of the fastest types of industrial wrapping equipment. If your operation is pumping out products at breakneck speed, a horizontal wrapper is probably your best bet.

These wrappers receive products from an infeed conveyor and automatically wrap them as they travel down a horizontal wrapping table. A roll of packaging material, like shrink wrap, stretch wrap or paper, is mounted above the table. As products move along, the packaging material descends and envelopes them, with heat sealing or adhesive sealing the edges to securely wrap the goods.

Some benefits of horizontal wrappers are their speed, simplicity, and affordability. They don’t require complex robotics or multiple axes of movement to get the job done. However, they do require a steady stream of uniformly-sized products to function efficiently. If you have a wide range of product sizes or shapes, a horizontal wrapper may struggle. For high-mix or short-run production, a turntable or robotic wrapper is probably better suited.

Cyklop offers a range of heavy-duty, industrial horizontal wrappers to meet high-volume production demands. Their CWP Pro series can wrap up to 200 packs per minute, with models ranging from semi-automatic to fully automatic. For maximum throughput, choose a model with an automatic infeed and outfeed conveyor, film splicer, and pack counter. With fast changeover times and a sturdy build, Cyklop’s CWP Pro series ensures your high-speed line keeps humming along.

If churning out huge quantities of product is your goal, look no further than a horizontal wrapper. Paired with an efficient conveyor system, these wrappers can transform your production floor into a well-oiled wrapping machine. For high-speed, high-volume producers, horizontal wrappers are the way to go.

Ring Wrappers: 360 Degree Protection

Ring wrappers, also known as turntable wrappers, provide comprehensive protection for your products by wrapping them from all sides. As products move through the wrapping machine on a rotating turntable, rollers dispense packaging material around the item, sealing it completely. This creates a tight, secure wrap that protects against damage from handling, shipping, and environmental exposure.

InkJet's line of Cyklop ring wrappers offers models in both semi-automatic and fully automatic configurations to suit your production needs and budget. The semi-automatic models require an operator to manually feed products into the machine and tie off the packaging, while the automatic models utilize product feed systems and automated film sealing to minimize human intervention. Both options provide high-speed, efficient wrapping for maximum productivity.

For irregularly-shaped or delicate products, ring wrappers are an ideal solution. Their all-around wrapping contains and stabilizes items that could shift or tip over with partial wrapping. The rotating action also allows for consistent, evenly-applied pressure to create a wrinkle-free wrap. Multiple ring wrappers can be integrated with conveyors for a seamless packaging line.

Some benefits of ring wrappers:

• Complete product enclosure and protection
• Suitable for irregular and unstable products
• High-speed, automated operation for efficiency
• Tight, wrinkle-free wrap for a professional appearance
• Can be integrated into an automated packaging line
• Semi-auto and fully auto models for varying needs

Overall, ring wrappers provide comprehensive protection and efficient operation for maximizing productivity. When complete, all-around coverage is critical, ring wrappers should be at the top of your list of industrial wrapping equipment options.

FAQs on Automatic Wrapping Machines

Once you’ve decided to invest in an automatic wrapper, you’ll likely have some questions about these high-tech machines. Here are some of the most common FAQs about automatic wrapping equipment:

How do automatic wrappers work? These machines utilize advanced technology like PLC controls, servo motors, and precision wrapping materials to quickly and efficiently wrap all kinds of products. Products are loaded onto the infeed conveyor, measured by optical sensors, and then wrapped to the precise specifications required using wrapping film on rolls.

What types of products can they wrap? Automatic wrappers can package everything from small goods like chocolates or granola bars to large cases or trays. They are very versatile and are used for wrapping food, medical supplies, consumer goods, and industrial parts. As long as the product can fit on the conveyor, an automatic wrapper should be able to handle it.

How much do they cost? Prices for automatic wrapping machines vary widely based on the size, speed, and functionality. Small tabletop models may start around $30,000 while large, high-speed wrappers can cost $200,000 or more. In general, you can expect to pay between $50,000 to $150,000 for a high-quality automatic wrapper.

What is the difference between semi-auto and fully automatic? Semi-automatic wrapping machines require an operator to manually load and unload products. They are more affordable but are slower and require more labor. Fully automatic wrappers use robotics and conveyors to automatically load, wrap, and unload products with no human intervention. They have higher throughput but significantly higher costs.

How fast can they wrap? Wrapping speeds range from 10 to over 100 packages per minute depending on the machine. Faster machines, often fully automatic wrappers, are better suited for high-volume industrial operations. Slower semi-auto wrappers may be perfectly adequate for smaller companies. Choose a machine with a wrapping speed that matches your production needs.

Does it require special training? Most automatic wrappers are designed to be user-friendly, but they are still complex pieces of equipment. Basic operation can often be learned on the job, but formal training from the manufacturer is recommended, especially for programmers and maintenance personnel. Proper training will help maximize uptime and reduce waste.

Why choose Cyklop wrapping machines

When it comes to industrial wrapping equipment, Cyklop is a brand you can trust. Their semi-automatic and fully automatic wrapping machines are designed with reliability and efficiency in mind.

As a manufacturer, keeping your product secure and protected during shipping and storage is crucial. Cyklop wrappers use high-quality components and the latest technology to get the job done right. Their machines are built to handle the demands of high-volume production without sacrificing precision.

Cyklop's user-friendly control panels make operating their equipment a breeze. Their machines are highly customizable with options like conveyor belts, top sheets, and built-in printers to suit your specific needs. Cyklop also provides exceptional customer service and technical support to help you get the most out of your investment.

When choosing industrial wrapping equipment, you want a solution that is:

• Reliable - Cyklop machines are engineered for efficiency and built to last.
• Fast - Models like the Tornado and Typhoon can wrap up to 200 packages per minute.
• Precise - Cyklop wrappers securely seal and protect your products with each use.
• User-friendly - Simple control panels and an ergonomic design make Cyklop machines easy to operate.
• Customizable - Options like conveyors, top sheets, and printers allow you to tailor the machine to your needs.
• Well-supported - Cyklop provides helpful customer service and technical support for all their equipment.

If you're looking for a wrapping solution you can depend on for years to come, Cyklop is the brand you want on your production line. Their machines deliver the speed, precision, and customization options to meet the demands of any operation.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the comprehensive guide to industrial wrapping. We covered what it is, why it matters, the main types of equipment, and why Cyklop makes the best wrappers on the market. Whether you need to wrap pallets, boxes, or irregular loads, Cyklop has a model to get the job done efficiently. Their innovative features like programmable PLC controls and servo-driven film carriages boost output and minimize downtime. When reliability and performance are critical, insist on Cyklop. Talk to your account manager today to find the right semi-auto or fully-auto wrapper to optimize your packaging operations. Now that you're an expert on industrial wrapping, it's time to boost productivity at your facility.