Tips for Troubleshooting Shrink Film Sealing Issues

From bad seals to burn-through, this information helps you address shrink packaging’s most common film and equipment issues.

When an operator is experiencing issues with seal integrity, their first instinct is usually to increase the heat on the sealer. Unfortunately, in most cases, this is the wrong adjustment.

The first question you should always ask when something is off is “what has changed since it was running right?  Start with the Big Three: 

99% of all shrink packaging problems come down to three basic issues:

1. Temperature (too hot/cool).

2. Time (too much/little).

3. Pressure (incorrect seal pressure and tension).

Here are some things you can try if you are having trouble getting good seals on your L-bar sealer:

Check the seal wires: Make sure the seal wires are installed correctly and are not loose, incompatible, or broken.

Check the seal-bed pad and tape: Make sure the seal-bed pad and tape are not worn and need to be replaced.

Check the seal plane: If packages are lifting off the belt when the seal bars meet, the seal plane is too high. If packages move away from the seal bar, the seal plane is too low or the package spacing is too close.

Check the film: Make sure the film is relaxed during the seal cycle and is not pulling on the film.

Check the seal blade: Use a clean, dry cloth or film to rub the seal blade.

Check the seal pad: Check for damage and replace it if necessary.

Check the PTFE cover: Make sure the PTFE cover is not worn or discolored. If the cover is worn, it will need to be replaced.

Check the heating element: Make sure the heating element is not broken, discolored, or bent.

Check the microswitch: Make sure the microswitch is properly aligned.

Need technical support or new OEM parts?  Call our service department at 813 242 6995 or reach out to us at sales@quickpakinc.com