110V Shrink Tunnel Uses and What to Know

When space and power options are limited, the use of a 110 volt shrink tunnel can increase production and produce professional results. The use of a 110 volt machine means it is capable of plugging into a standard wall socket. This can be a drastic step from using a heat gun for shrinking material. In this post, we will discuss some common uses for a 110v shrink tunnel, options to consider, and what to be aware of before and after making a purchase.

Common Uses for a 110V Shrink Tunnel

Because of the versatility shrink tunnels offer, they can be used across multiple industries in several applications. It is essential to be sure the 110v shrink tunnel you are considering will meet the specific application you will be using it for. We recommend talking with someone familiar with the machines or testing the tunnel before purchasing.

Centerfold Shrink Film - Smaller 110 volt shrink tunnels are used in multiple industries for various purposes. The most common use is with an I-bar sealer or L-bar sealer. These shrink wrap sealers use centerfold shrink film to fully enclose products into shrink wrap. After the package is sealed, heat must be applied to the material to shrink and conform to the wrapped item.

Neck banding – Used around the tops of bottles and jars, neck banding provides a tamper-evident seal to ensure the product has been unopened. Some 110-volt shrink tunnels work excellently for this application. There are also infrared 110 volt tunnels explicitly made for neck banding.

Shrink Tubing for Electrical Wires – Smaller tunnels can shrink tubing around electrical wires. Testing is crucial before purchasing this application. Larger wiring harnesses and thicker tubing can struggle in smaller tunnels.

Shrink Tubing – Besides shrink tubing used to cover electrical wires, PVC shrink tubing covers and bundles elongated products. Smaller tunnels can work great if the products are not too long for the tunnel chamber.

Options to Consider for a 110V Shrink Tunnel

The options to look for and consider in a 110v shrink tunnel will be determined by the application it will be used for. Specific products may require more power in the conveyor motor or specific temperature settings. Below are a few options to consider when purchasing a shrink tunnel.

*Tabletop or stand-alone option – Most 110v shrink tunnels are small enough for tabletop applications. This allows a production area or room for a sealer before products are placed into the shrink tunnel. Another option is the stand-alone option with legs. As long as the leg set has wheels and locking casters, the tunnel can be moved with ease. Shrink combo systems are also popular options when looking into a shrink tunnel. These machines have a 110 volt shrink tunnel and sealer in one stand-alone machine. They are very popular when packaging one to three thousand products daily.

*Conveyor Belt Option – The type of conveyor the products will be transported on through the tunnel will vary based on the wrapped products. Popular conveyor belt options are mesh belting and roller rods. The standard conveyor used will vary depending on the tunnel manufacturer.

*Temperature Control Options – Analog or digital controls are the primary options for smaller shrink tunnels. Some digital options have preset temperatures and adjustments for temperature variations.

*Exterior Options – What type of exterior finish is needed for your application? Stainless steel tunnels and belts can be purchased if wipe-down and direct food contact are necessary. Powder-coated and painted are the more common options. Powder coated is more resistant to scratches and scuffs but harder to repair if chipping does occur.

What to Know Before Purchasing a 110v Shrink Tunnel

If you are ready to take the plunge and purchase, there are a few things to be aware of. The right tunnel will make shrinking more efficient than a heat gun, but it must meet your needs. Read below for some things to consider before making a purchase.

* The tunnel may not work for your intended purchase. Due to the lower 110 voltage, there is the possibility the tunnel may not work with thicker materials or longer products.

*The tunnel will need to be placed on its own outlet. Most 110v outlets have a 20 amp breaker. The heater on most tunnels will use all of the amperage when heating up.

*Because of the power limitations, a 110 volt shrink tunnel is not considered a high-speed machine. It is substantially better than a heat gun, though.

*The first line of defense in the electrical wiring will be a fuse. We recommend keeping extra fuses on hand in case of power surges.

*The tunnel will take time to preheat. Depending on the chamber size, many 110 volt shrink tunnels will take ten to fifteen minutes to preheat.

*The drive chain for the conveyor belt will need to be lubricated regularly to prevent rust.

*Depending on the tunnel, there may be hot spots in some regions of the tunnel.

*Due to the amperage draw, it is not recommended to run a 110 volt shrink tunnel on an extension cord.

*There are other, more prominent, shrink tunnel options available. They require more power, but if you are maxing out the capabilities of 110 volt machine, faster, more efficient machines are available.

Conclusion

The purchase of a 110 volt shrink tunnel can substantially change production levels if you are currently using a heat gun. It is important to ensure the tunnel will work for your application. Shrink materials that are too thick or products that are too long may struggle in the tunnel.

Be sure to know what type of conveyor comes with the tunnel to ensure it works with the wrapped products. Know the production area where the equipment will be placed and be aware of any options or features that may be needed for the tunnel. Be sure parts and assistance are available if something goes wrong with the machine. For more information about the right tunnel, call 1-800-441-5090 or shop shrink tunnels for sale now.