Using a shrink gun to wrap and seal a parcel is fairly simple. Shrink-wrapping is a reliable method that perfectly protects goods for storage and transport. Heat shrink film specifically designed for this purpose must be used. That means that when heated, it retracts and forms a protective cocoon. A heat gun must be used for this.
PVC heat shrink films
Heat shrink films are made from polyolefin plastics, most commonly polyethylene and PVC. They are strong, often transparent or white, and provide protection against heat, cold, humidity, dust or any other contaminant. Specific films that resist wide temperature variations, and UV light are also available if the parcel is stored in a highly exposed location. Heat shrinkable films are also puncture and shock resistant. They provide a safe way to keep items stable for storage and transport.
A shrink forming gun can be used to heat the film, and when it cools down, it shrinks to wrap the goods tightly. Be careful to use the right temperature so as not to damage the plastic or the goods underneath it.
Heat-shrinkable PVC rolls shrink at 80°C and have a shrinkage rate of 40 %. This process is not recommended for food packaging.
How to use a heat gun for heat shrinkable film
Shrink film on rolls is available in a wide range of sizes and thicknesses, so that it can be used for small parcels as well as for much larger loads, especially when packed on pallets. This process is also used for large-scale operations, such as for boats during winter mooring.
The film is available in continuous rolls to accommodate various non-uniform sizes and shapes. It can also be cut manually to the desired size. Finally, there are ready-to-use pallet covers available in various formats and thicknesses.
Simply unroll the roll of heat shrink film and wrap the polyethylene around the goods. It follows the contours of your parcel and thus helps to hold the goods in place.
The heat gun is safe and light enough to be used for very long periods of time. Depending on the model, it can be compact, with an incorporated gas cartridge, or connected to a cart to transport the propane cylinder for larger jobs.
How to seal your parcel with your shrink gun
Prepare your loads by making sure they are as neatly arranged as possible, then secure the load onto your pallet. Pull the shrink film cover over the whole load. For best results, lift the pallet until you have easy access to the underside, then pull the cover down under the corners of the pallet.
The next stage is to heat up the film. The shrink gun uses propane gas to create a flame, which is contained in a safety housing that heats and radiates heat onto the plastic packaging or comes into direct contact with the film. This is why it is necessary to adopt the right distance between the flame and the film to avoid causing holes in it due to the flame.
Under the effect of heat, the film shrinks and perfectly fits the shape of the parcel. As it cools, the film hardens and forms a fairly rigid shell. The goods are then perfectly maintained and are not likely to move during transport.
