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Updated for 2018

Packaging machines are very simple to use and can wrap a variety of products to improve their appearance, as well as offer tamper evidence and protection. Through the application of a few simple cleaning and safety tips, you will ensure you consistently obtain the optimum performance from your packaging machinery.

You should always remember that packaging machines are an electrical appliance; there is, therefore, an invariable risk of potential electric shock or fire hazard if a machine is not in an appropriate location or it is not maintained correctly. Make sure that any system is in an area that is clean, dry and that it is connected only to a correctly determined power supply that meets the criteria of the Electricity at Work Regulations.

Packaging machines should be placed well out of the reach of children, and a shrink wrapping machine should never be used for anything other than its intended purpose. You should not try to seal with materials other than the plastic film shrink wrap that the machine is designed to use. Your packaging machinery should be stored in a well-lit location that is indoors and away from direct heat and moisture.

 

Caring For Your Packaging Machinery

When the machine is not in use, it is vital that it is unplugged to prevent any potential safety risks. When cleaning the machinery, do not use any abrasive materials that are not fit for this purpose as it may result in damaged parts. It is advised that regular maintenance is carried out, to clean the shrink wrap sealer heating element, as well as replace consumable parts when necessary.

a woman maintaining the shrink wrapping machinery at her place of work

Maintaining Your Shrink Wrapping Machinery

Your shrink wrapping machine should be wiped clean at the end of each day, to remove dust and dirt build up, again, ensure that this is only carried out when the machine is unplugged and has cooled down. Your daily maintenance schedule should also include checking your sealing bar, as this may have a buildup of the packaging material after a days use. This build up can often prevent a satisfactory seal so should be continually monitored. If it frequently occurs, it suggests that the machine is not being used at the optimum temperature. When the machine has cooled, wipe the bar to remove the excess material. These measures are preventative, and the maintenance carried out will ensure you notice an issue before it becomes detrimental to your production.

it is important to unplug your shrink wrapping machinery poster

Heating Element/Cutting Blade

The heating element, or cutting blade, consists of a wire with PTFE Teflon tape; to safely clean this heating wire firstly remove the pad from the channel under the sealer arm, then pull it down and allow any residue to burn off – you should seek Kempner’s guidance initially on this aspect to gain a full understanding of the process involved. Use the tool recommended by Kempner to remove anything still sticking to the sealer arm following the first step, do not use abrasive items as it may damage the machine. If the PTFE Teflon tape needs replacing, it is essential that the wire is sufficiently cooled down before doing so, as the heat may affect the performance of the new part and you may cause yourself harm. The new PTFE Teflon tape should be added to the sealing pad, it is vital you use the appropriate sized PTFE Teflon tape. Once you are happy with the application of the PTFE Teflon tape and you are sure all other parts are in full working order, it is advised that you test the machinery before continuing with your packaging production.

polyolefin shrink film and shrink wrap machine.

Additional Advice

Kempner provides top quality yet affordable shrink wrapping machinery, our extensive product range offers a high-quality packaging solution for a wide range of specifications and requirements. Upon purchase and use of these sophisticated machines and materials, it is vital that routine maintenance procedures are followed, to maintain and improve your packaging machinery’s performance, avoid expensive repair costs and ensure its longevity. We strive to ensure all of our customers are aware of the routine maintenance that is required to be performed, as well as offering advice and tips regarding this matter. Get in touch today on 020 8952 5262 for further advice and guidance.