PE film shrink tunnel

PE film shrink tunnel guidance for sleeve sealed packs

PE film shrink wrapping needs a tunnel and sleeve sealer route selected around film behaviour, pack weight and required transit strength.

Why PE film changes the tunnel specification

PE shrink film is commonly considered for heavier packs, transit wrapping and multipack collation. It can be robust, but it also needs the correct heat exposure and airflow to produce a consistent pack without over-shrinking or leaving loose film.

The tunnel needs to suit film thickness, product height, pack density and output. A tunnel that works for light retail shrink film may not deliver the correct result on heavier PE film multipacks.

Sleeve sealing with PE film

In a sleeve sealing system, the PE film is wrapped around the pack and sealed before heat shrinking. The film width, pack dimensions and sealing jaw arrangement must be matched so the sleeve covers the product correctly and shrinks evenly.

For bottles and cans, pack stability through the tunnel is a key issue. The film must tighten without pulling the group out of shape or causing the pack to twist during discharge.

Details needed for advice

Provide the film type if known, the pack dimensions, product weight and target output. If you are changing film supplier or thickness, mention this because it can alter tunnel settings and final presentation.

Photographs of the current shrink result are useful where the issue is loose sides, film burn, poor overlap or weak pack containment.

Quote route and specification checklist

PE film shrink tunnel guidance for sleeve sealed packs checklist
PE film detailWhy it matters
Film thicknessAffects shrink behaviour, strength and dwell time.
Pack densityHeavy or dense packs need controlled heat exposure.
Tunnel airflowHelps produce even shrink around open sides.
Belt transferKeeps the grouped pack stable during shrinking.

Quick answers

PE film shrink tunnel FAQs

Is PE film suitable for sleeve sealing?

PE shrink film is commonly used for many sleeve sealed transit packs and multipacks, subject to the product and specification.

Why is my PE film pack loose?

Possible causes include tunnel settings, film thickness, poor airflow, insufficient dwell time or incorrect film sizing.

Can Lancing advise on PE film route?

Yes. Send pack dimensions, film details and desired output so the machine and tunnel can be considered together.

Lancing UK specification support

Need a practical sleeve sealer recommendation?

Send pack dimensions, product photographs, film details and target output. Lancing UK can advise on the sleeve sealer, shrink tunnel and conveyor route.

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