Horizontal Stretch Wrapper for Timber Bundle: Complete Video Guide
Meta Description: Watch horizontal stretch wrapping machine securing timber bundle. Specs: 300% film pre-stretch, rotating ring/orbiting arm, conveyor-fed. For timber, extrusions, pipes, textile bundles.
📹 Video Demonstration: Timber Bundle Wrapping
Video Analysis – TIMBER BUNDLE Wrapping Process:
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Bundle Infeed (0:00-0:10): Timber bundle (multiple planks/boards stacked together) is placed onto powered conveyor. Bundle dimensions typically 2-4m length, 0.5-1.2m width.
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Conveyor Transport (0:10-0:20): Powered rollers smoothly transport timber bundle horizontally into wrapping zone. Speed adjustable (5-15 m/min) based on bundle weight and wrap density.
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Rotating Ring Activation (0:20-0:30): As bundle enters wrapping zone, the rotating ring (or orbiting arm) begins revolution around bundle. Film dispensing carriage mounted on ring.
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Film Application (0:30-0:50): Stretch film (typically 15-23 micron LLDPE) is applied circumferentially around timber bundle. Pre-stretch ratio 250-300% maximizes film yield and ensures tight containment.
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Multiple Wraps (0:50-1:10): Bundle continues through wrapping zone while ring rotates continuously. Number of wraps programmable (typically 3-8 wraps) based on bundle stability requirements.
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Film Cut & Seal (1:10-1:20): At cycle end, automatic film clamp cuts and seals film tail. Hot wire or mechanical seal secures film end.
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Wrapped Bundle Discharge (1:20-1:30): Fully wrapped timber bundle exits via outfeed conveyor, ready for storage or shipment.
Observable Performance from Video:
- Product Type: TIMBER BUNDLE (wood planks/boards stacked together)
- Cycle Time: Approximately 60-90 seconds per bundle
- Film Tension: Visible tight wrap, no loose film
- Bundle Stability: Timber pieces held securely, no shifting
What is a Horizontal Stretch Wrapper for Bundles?
A horizontal stretch wrapper for bundles (also called orbital wrapper or ring wrapper) secures elongated or grouped products by applying stretch film circumferentially as they pass through a rotating ring.
Key Difference from Vertical Wrappers:
- Horizontal: Product moves horizontally through wrapper (ideal for long bundles)
- Vertical: Product stays stationary, film rotates around it (for pallets)
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Applicable Bundle Size | Length: 1-6m, Width: 0.3-1.5m, Height: 0.2-1.2m |
| Max Bundle Weight | 500 – 2,000 kg (customizable) |
| Conveyor Speed | 5 – 15 m/min (variable, VFD control) |
| Ring Rotation Speed | 0 – 60 RPM (adjustable) |
| Film Pre-Stretch Ratio | 250% – 300% (mechanical or electronic) |
| Film Roll Size | Width: 500-750mm, OD: 250-300mm, Core: 76mm |
| Film Thickness | 15 – 23 micron (LLDPE stretch film) |
| Wraps per Cycle | 3 – 8 wraps (programmable via HMI) |
| Cycle Time | 45 – 120 seconds (based on bundle length and wraps) |
| Power Supply | 380V/50Hz/3Phase or 480V/60Hz/3Phase |
| Total Power | 3 – 7.5 kW (conveyor + ring drive) |
| Compressed Air | 0.6 MPa, 100 L/min (for film clamp/cut) |
| Control System | PLC (Siemens/Mitsubishi) + HMI Touchscreen |
| Machine Footprint | ~4,000mm (L) × 1,500mm (W) × 2,200mm (H) |
Core Components
1. Wrapping Mechanism
| Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Rotating Ring | Full ring rotates around bundle | High-speed, uniform bundles (timber, extrusions) |
| Orbiting Arm | Semi-circular arm orbits bundle | Irregular shapes, oversized bundles |
Ring Drive Options:
- Belt Drive: Smooth, quiet operation (standard)
- Gear Drive: Higher torque, heavy-duty applications
2. Conveyor System
| Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Powered Roller | Motorized rollers | Rigid bundles (timber, metal profiles) |
| Belt Conveyor | Continuous belt surface | Soft/unstable bundles (textiles, bags) |
| Chain Conveyor | Heavy-duty chains | Very heavy bundles (>1,500kg) |
Conveyor Features:
- Variable speed (VFD control)
- Adjustable guide rails (bundle centering)
- Photoelectric sensors (bundle detection)
3. Film Carriage Assembly
Components:
- Film Roll Holder: Pneumatic or manual shaft lock
- Pre-Stretch System: Mechanical rollers or electronic servo
- Tension Control: Brake system (pneumatic or magnetic particle)
- Film Clamp/Cut: Hot wire, mechanical blade, or air cut
| Pre-Stretch Types: | Type | Ratio | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical (Roller) | 250-280% | General purpose, cost-effective | |
| Electronic (Servo) | 250-300%+ | Precision control, film savings |
4. Control System
Standard Features:
- PLC (Siemens S7-1200, Mitsubishi FX, or Allen-Bradley)
- 10″ or 15″ HMI Touchscreen
- Recipe storage (50+ bundle specifications)
- Production counter
- Fault diagnostics
Optional:
- Barcode scanner (auto recipe recall)
- Remote monitoring (Ethernet connectivity)
- Integration with upstream/downstream equipment
Operational Workflow: Step-by-Step
Stage 1: Bundle Preparation
Timber pieces are stacked and aligned into a uniform bundle. Optional: strapping or banding applied before wrapping for extra stability.
Best Practice: Ensure bundle is square and uniform for consistent wrap quality.
Stage 2: Parameter Setup
Operator enters or recalls recipe via HMI:
- Bundle length
- Number of wraps
- Wrap pattern (uniform or reinforced ends)
- Conveyor speed
- Ring rotation speed
Recipe Example:
Product: Timber Bundle (Pine Planks)
Length: 4m
Width: 1m
Height: 0.8m
Wraps: 5 (2 extra at each end)
Speed: 10 m/minStage 3: Bundle Loading
Bundle is placed onto infeed conveyor (manual or automated via forklift/AGV). Guide rails center bundle automatically.
Stage 4: Wrapping Cycle
Operator presses start. Conveyor transports bundle through wrapping zone while ring rotates, applying film in spiral pattern.
Wrap Patterns:
- Uniform: Even spacing across entire length
- Reinforced Ends: Extra wraps at bundle ends (prevents film unraveling)
- Full Coverage: Overlapping wraps for maximum protection
Stage 5: Film Cut & Seal
At cycle end, film is clamped, cut, and sealed (hot wire or mechanical). Film tail adheres to wrapped bundle.
Stage 6: Discharge
Wrapped bundle exits via outfeed conveyor. Ready for:
- Forklift pickup
- Automated storage (AS/RS)
- Shrink wrapping (additional weather protection)
- Strapping (for extra security)
TIMBER BUNDLE Applications
Lumber & Sawmills (35% of installations)
- Products: Sawn timber, planks, boards, beams
- Bundle Sizes: 2-6m length, 0.5-1.5m width
- Film Requirement: UV-resistant for outdoor storage
Building Materials (25%)
- Products: MDF boards, plywood sheets, particle board
- Bundle Sizes: Large flat sheets, edge-protected
- Special Need: Corner protectors before wrapping
Wood-Based Panels (20%)
- Products: OSB, fiberboard, laminate flooring
- Bundle Sizes: Compact, uniform stacks
- Wrap Pattern: Full coverage for dust protection
Export Packaging (20%)
- Products: Timber for international shipment
- Requirements: ISPM 15 compliance (heat-treated wood)
- Film: Heavy-duty, weather-resistant (23+ micron)
Advantages for Timber Bundle Packaging
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Load Stability | Prevents individual planks from shifting during transport |
| Weather Protection | Barrier against rain, dust, dirt (outdoor storage) |
| Handling Efficiency | Forklift-ready unitized loads |
| Reduced Damage | Protects edges and surfaces from impact |
| Film Savings | 300% pre-stretch = 3x film yield vs. manual wrapping |
| Labor Reduction | 1 operator vs. 2-3 for manual wrapping |
| Consistent Quality | Every bundle wrapped identically |
Comparison: Horizontal Wrapper vs. Manual Wrapping
| Metric | Manual Wrapping | Horizontal Wrapper |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Time | 3-5 minutes per bundle | 45-90 seconds |
| Labor | 2-3 operators | 1 operator (monitoring) |
| Film Consumption | High (no pre-stretch) | 60-70% less (300% pre-stretch) |
| Wrap Consistency | Variable (operator dependent) | Uniform (machine-controlled) |
| Containment Force | Inconsistent tension | Controlled, repeatable |
| Payback Period | N/A | 12-18 months |
Machine Configuration Options
By Wrapping Mechanism
| Configuration | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Rotating Ring | Timber, extrusions, pipes | Standard |
| Orbiting Arm | Irregular shapes, oversized | +10-15% |
By Conveyor Type
| Configuration | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Powered Roller | Timber, metal profiles | Standard |
| Belt Conveyor | Textiles, soft bundles | +5-10% |
| Chain Conveyor | Heavy bundles (>1,500kg) | +20-30% |
By Film Application
| Configuration | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical Pre-Stretch | 250-280% ratio | General purpose |
| Electronic Pre-Stretch | 250-300%+ ratio, servo control | Film savings, precision |
| Hot Wire Cut/Seal | Clean seal, no tails | High-speed operations |
Maintenance Schedule
| Component | Interval | Task |
|---|---|---|
| Ring Rollers/Bearings | Weekly | Lubricate, check for wear |
| Conveyor Chains/Belts | Monthly | Check tension, lubricate |
| Film Carriage | Monthly | Clean rollers, inspect brake |
| Pre-Stretch Rollers | 3 months | Clean surface, check grip |
| PLC Battery | 2-3 years | Replace backup battery |
| Safety Sensors | Monthly | Test E-stops, light curtains |
MTBF: 8,000-12,000 operating hours for core components Mean Time to Repair (MTTR): <2 hours for common faults
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between rotating ring and orbiting arm?
A: Rotating ring provides full 360° rotation around bundle (smoother, faster, better for uniform bundles like timber). Orbiting arm uses a semi-circular arm that orbits the bundle (more flexible for irregular shapes, but typically slower).
Q: Can the machine handle different bundle sizes?
A: Yes. Conveyor width and ring opening are customizable. Standard machines handle bundles 0.3-1.5m wide and 0.2-1.2m tall. Length is unlimited (conveyor length determines max). Recipe storage allows quick changeover between sizes.
Q: How is film tension controlled?
A: Film carriage uses either mechanical brake (pneumatic or magnetic particle) or electronic servo control. Tension is adjustable via HMI (typically 10-50N range). Consistent tension ensures tight wrap without crushing bundle.
Q: Is the machine compatible with automated production lines?
A: Yes. Standard models include conveyor interfaces and PLC I/O for integration. Can communicate with upstream bundling machines and downstream labeling/strapping stations via dry contact or fieldbus (Profinet, EtherNet/IP).
Q: What film types are compatible?
A: Standard LLDPE stretch film (15-23 micron, 500-750mm width). Also compatible with:
- UV-resistant film (outdoor storage)
- VCI film (corrosion protection for metal bundles)
- Colored film (product identification)
