Overview
Shrink sleeve labeling machines apply full-body or partial polymer sleeves (PVC, PET, OPS) to containers and use heat or steam tunnels to shrink the sleeve for a tight, 360° fit. Widely used in beverage, cosmetic, and household product lines, they handle round, oval and complex shapes at intermittent and continuous high speeds. Typical systems include sleeve feeders, applicators and shrink tunnels and integrate into automated packaging lines for tamper-evident, high-coverage graphics and variable-data printing.
FAQ
What should I check when buying a shrink sleeve labeler?
Verify container sizes and shapes supported, sleeve material compatibility, production speed, changeover time, electrical and pneumatic specs, and condition of the feeder, applicator and tunnel. Request maintenance records, spare-part lists and a demonstration or video of the machine running.
How do I arrange safe shipping for a labeler?
Drain fluids, secure moving parts, lock or remove loose components, and cratethe machine on a pallet. Use a carrier experienced with packaging equipment, insure the shipment, and provide accurate weight/dimension and export documentation to avoid customs delays.
What integration and setup should I expect on site?
Plan for mechanical alignment to existing conveyors, matching line speed, electrical power, compressed air or steam supplies, and communication protocols (Ethernet/Profinet). Expect commissioning, tuning, and operator training by a technician before full production.
What routine maintenance keeps a shrink sleeve labeler reliable?
Regularly clean sensors and guides, inspect and replace belts, rollers and heating elements, check tunnel temperature controllers and seals, lubricate bearings, and keep common wear parts on hand. Follow the OEM service schedule and document all maintenance.