What Is a Pallet Stretch Wrapper?

Introduction

Pallet stretch wrappers help protect and stabilise palletised goods during transport and storage. They improve load stability and provide protection from weather, dust and potential handling damage. This article explains how pallet stretch wrappers work, their advantages and the criteria to consider when selecting the right solution for your operation.

What is a pallet stretch wrapper?

A pallet stretch wrapper is industrial equipment designed to secure palletised loads using stretch film. Loads can come from a robotic palletiser or a manual palletising station. The wrapper helps maintain load stability and protect goods during transport and storage.

• A pallet stretch wrapper wraps palletised loads in stretch film.
• It supports load stability and product protection.
• It is widely used when preparing pallets for transport and storage.

How does a pallet stretch wrapper work?

The machine wraps the pallet with extensible plastic film. The cycle begins when the pallet is positioned in the wrapping area, often using a forklift truck, pallet truck or conveyor. The wrapping cycle then includes:

• Film pre-stretch: rollers or mechanical systems stretch the film to control material use and create retaining force.
• Film application: the film is wrapped around the pallet either by rotating the pallet on a turntable or by moving a wrapping arm around a stationary load.
• Cutting and finishing: once the required wrapping pattern has been completed, the film is cut and secured.

What are the main types of pallet stretch wrapper?

Two common machine principles are:

• Turntable stretch wrapper: the pallet sits on a rotating platform while the film carriage moves vertically. This type is often suited to stable light or medium loads.
• Rotary-arm stretch wrapper: the pallet remains stationary while a rotating arm carries the film around the load. This principle is often selected for heavier or less stable loads.

What are the advantages of pallet stretch wrappers?

• Safety and stability: stretch film helps hold goods securely in position and can reduce the risk of load movement during transport and storage.
• Material and labour savings: controlled pre-stretch can reduce the amount of film used per pallet. Automated wrapping also reduces the time and manual effort required to prepare pallets.
• Protection from dust and weather: stretch film creates an additional barrier around the load and helps protect products from dust, moisture and contaminants.

How do you choose the right pallet stretch wrapper?

• Load capacity: make sure the machine can handle the weight and dimensions of the pallets used in production.
• Pallet volume: for high volumes, consider an automated wrapper capable of processing pallets at the required rate.
• Available space: assess the floor area available and how easily the machine can be integrated into existing pallet flows.
• Budget: compare purchase cost, film consumption, maintenance and operating costs to identify the most appropriate solution.

How should a pallet stretch wrapper be maintained?

Regular maintenance is important for reliable performance and long machine life. Key actions include:

• Cleaning: keep rollers, brakes, sensors and other components free from dust and debris.
• Lubrication: lubricate moving components such as bearings and gears in accordance with the manufacturer’s maintenance plan.
• Component checks: inspect belts, chains, cables and other wearing parts regularly.
• Staff training: make sure operators are trained to use and maintain the equipment correctly to reduce avoidable faults and downtime.