Mastering Load Containment: A Guide to the B200 Turntable Stretch Wrapper
Effective pallet wrapping is crucial for protecting goods during transit and storage. Damaged loads lead to significant costs, delays, and customer dissatisfaction. Turntable stretch wrappers, like the B200 model, offer a consistent and efficient solution for securing palletized goods, significantly improving load containment compared to manual wrapping methods. This guide delves into the operation, specifications, and practical considerations of using the B200 turntable stretch wrapper.
1. The B200 Turntable Stretch Wrapper in Action
Observing the machine operate provides the best initial understanding of its function. The following video demonstrates the B200's wrapping cycle:
2. Operational Overview: How the Wrapping Cycle Works
Understanding the B200's process helps operators optimize its use:
- Load Placement: The palletized load is placed centrally onto the turntable using a forklift or pallet jack.
- Film Attachment: The operator pulls the stretch film from the film carriage and manually tucks it into the base of the pallet load or uses a clamp mechanism if available.
- Cycle Initiation: The operator selects the desired wrap program (if applicable) via the control panel and starts the wrapping cycle.
- Turntable Rotation & Film Application: The turntable begins rotating at a set speed. Simultaneously, the film carriage, holding the roll of stretch film, moves vertically up the mast, dispensing the film and wrapping the load.
- Top and Bottom Wraps: Preset parameters ensure sufficient wraps are applied at the top and bottom of the load for maximum stability – critical zones for load integrity.
- Film Carriage Descent: Once the carriage reaches the preset height (often detected by a photo-eye sensor), it descends while the turntable continues to rotate, applying film on the way down.
- Cycle Completion: The turntable stops at its home position. The operator cuts the film tail and wipes it against the load, where the film's cling secures it.
3. B200 Turntable Stretch Wrapper: Key Technical Specifications
Understanding the machine's capabilities is essential for proper application. Key technical data for the B200 typically includes (Note: Specific values may vary; always consult the manufacturer's documentation for exact figures):
- Turntable Diameter: Usually around 1500mm (59") or 1650mm (65"), accommodating standard pallet sizes.
- Turntable Speed: Adjustable, often ranging from 3-12 RPM.
- Maximum Load Weight: Typically supports loads up to 1500kg (3300 lbs) or 2000kg (4400 lbs).
- Maximum Load Height: Standard masts often accommodate loads up to 2100mm (82") or 2400mm (94"). Extended masts may be available.
- Film Carriage System: Commonly features a Powered Pre-Stretch (PPS) system.
- Pre-Stretch Ratio: Often fixed or adjustable, commonly ranging from 150% up to 250% or 300%. This significantly increases film yield and load containment force.
- Control System: Usually incorporates a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) with an HMI (Human Machine Interface) panel for setting parameters.
- Adjustable Parameters:
- Top/Bottom Wrap Counts
- Turntable Speed Control
- Film Carriage Ascent/Descent Speed
- Film Tension Control
- Load Height Sensing (Automatic via photo-eye)
- Power Requirements: Typically 220V/1Ph/50-60Hz or specified alternative (e.g., 110V). Power consumption might be around 1.0 - 1.5 kW.
- Machine Footprint: Requires adequate floor space for the machine dimensions plus operating and loading/unloading clearance.
pallet stretch wrapping machine with weighing scale 4. Practical Benefits of Implementing the B200
Integrating a turntable stretch wrapper like the B200 into a packaging line offers tangible advantages:
- Improved Load Stability: Consistent wrap patterns and tension significantly reduce the risk of product shifting and damage during handling and shipping.
- Enhanced Wrapping Consistency: Eliminates the variability inherent in manual wrapping, ensuring every pallet receives the same level of protection.
- Stretch Film Savings: The powered pre-stretch system elongates the film before application, maximizing coverage per roll and potentially reducing film consumption by 50% or more compared to hand wrapping.
- Increased Throughput: Automating the wrapping process frees up labor and speeds up the pallet preparation stage.
- Improved Ergonomics and Safety: Reduces the physical strain and risks associated with manual wrapping (bending, walking backwards, dizziness).
5. Experience Sharing: Optimizing Performance and Maintenance
Getting the most out of your B200 involves more than just starting the cycle. Consider these points based on operational experience:
- Selecting the Right Stretch Film: The machine's performance is linked to the film used. Consider film gauge (thickness), pre-stretch capability, and cling properties suitable for your load type and the machine's pre-stretch system. Using film designed for machine application is critical.
- Optimizing Wrap Settings:
- Load Containment Force: This is key. Adjust film tension and pre-stretch (if adjustable) to achieve adequate force without crushing the product. Test wraps are recommended.
- Overlap: Ensure sufficient film overlap (typically 3-5 inches) between revolutions for film synergy and strength.
- Top/Bottom Wraps: Apply sufficient wraps (usually 3-5) at the pallet base and the top of the load to secure them properly.
- Proper Load Placement: Center the load on the turntable to ensure balanced rotation and consistent film application. Off-center loads can lead to uneven wraps and potential machine strain.
- Routine Maintenance is Key:
- Keep Sensors Clean: Dust and debris on photo-eyes can interfere with automatic height sensing.
- Check Rollers: Inspect turntable support rollers and film carriage rollers for wear and smooth operation.
- Lubrication: Follow manufacturer guidelines for lubricating moving parts like chains or bearings.
- Inspect Film Cutter/Wiper: Ensure these components are clean and functional for reliable cycle completion.
pallet stretch wrapping machine with weighing scale 6. Essential Safety Considerations
Operating any machinery requires adherence to safety protocols:
- Operator Training: Ensure all users are properly trained on safe operation, parameter setting, and emergency procedures.
- Emergency Stops: Know the location and function of all E-stop buttons.
- Guarding: Do not operate the machine with safety guards removed or bypassed.
- Clear Operating Zone: Keep the area around the turntable clear during operation.
7. Conclusion
The B200 Turntable stretch wrapper represents a significant step up from manual wrapping, offering consistency, efficiency, and material savings. By understanding its operational principles, technical specifications, and best practices for use and maintenance, businesses can effectively leverage this type of equipment to improve load containment, reduce shipping damage, and streamline their end-of-line packaging processes. Proper setup and ongoing attention to detail are crucial for maximizing the return on investment and ensuring safe, reliable operation.
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