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Common Faults and Troubleshooting of Sealing and Shrink Wrapping Machines

2024-09-03

Sealing and shrink wrapping machines play an important role in modern packaging, especially in industries such as food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. Shrink wrapping not only enhances the appearance of products but also provides dustproof, moisture-proof, and extended shelf-life benefits. However, during daily use, sealing and shrink wrapping machines may encounter some common issues that affect efficiency and packaging quality. This article analyzes these common faults and offers effective solutions to help operators maintain the equipment and ensure smooth production.
1. Incomplete Sealing or Loose Seals
Problem Analysis:
Incomplete sealing or loose seals are among the most common faults in shrink wrapping machines, directly affecting the tightness of the packaging. The usual causes include insufficient sealing temperature, too short sealing time, or poor-quality shrink film. If the sealing blade does not reach the appropriate temperature, the film cannot be fully cut, resulting in weak seals. Additionally, if the sealing time is set too short, the blade may not finish the sealing action, leading to weak or incomplete seals.
Solution:

First, check if the sealing temperature is set correctly. Adjust the temperature according to the type of shrink film being used. For example, PVC film usually requires a lower temperature, while PE film requires a higher one. Next, extend the sealing time to ensure the blade has enough time to complete the cutting process. If the issue persists, check the quality of the shrink film and ensure the film's thickness and strength are suitable for the current machine settings.


2. Poor Shrinking Effect
Problem Analysis:
A poor shrinking effect is typically characterized by shrink film not fully adhering to the product’s surface, resulting in wrinkles, bubbles, or uneven shrinking. This problem is often caused by a low temperature in the shrink tunnel or the conveyor belt moving too quickly. If the shrink tunnel does not provide enough heat, the film cannot shrink to its intended size. Similarly, if the conveyor moves too fast, the product's time in the tunnel is too short, and it doesn’t receive enough heat.
Solution:

First, inspect and raise the temperature in the shrink tunnel. Gradually increase the temperature based on the characteristics and thickness of the shrink film until it adheres evenly to the product. Additionally, adjust the conveyor speed by slowing it down, allowing the product more time in the shrink tunnel. If the shrinking effect is still unsatisfactory, check whether the hot air circulation system is functioning correctly, ensuring heat is distributed evenly.


3. Film Sticking to the Sealing Blade
Problem Analysis:
Film sticking to the sealing blade is a common mechanical issue, usually caused by excessive blade temperature or low-quality shrink film. When the blade is too hot, the shrink film melts during cutting and sticks to the blade, preventing proper cutting. Low-quality shrink film, especially material containing impurities or with poor heat resistance, can also contribute to this problem.
Solution:

First, check and reduce the temperature of the sealing blade, particularly when handling thinner shrink films to avoid overheating. Secondly, use higher-quality shrink film that offers better heat resistance and consistent material. Regularly clean the sealing blade to remove any film residue and ensure the blade stays sharp and clean.


4. Rough or "Overflowing" Edges after Sealing
Problem Analysis:
Rough or "overflowing" edges refer to uneven or excess material left on the edges of the shrink film after sealing. This issue is typically caused by dull sealing blades, excessive sealing time, or insufficient equipment precision. If the blade becomes blunt from prolonged use, it struggles to make clean cuts, resulting in rough edges. Additionally, if the sealing time is too long, the blade may linger on the material, causing overcutting or excess film at the edges.
Solution:
Regularly inspect the condition of the sealing blade. If the blade is no longer sharp, it should be replaced promptly. Adjust the sealing time to prevent the blade from staying on the material for too long, which can cause excessive cutting. If the equipment lacks precision, recalibrate the machine or replace parts to ensure more accurate sealing actions.