Purchasing Shrink Wrap Machine Parts

Shrink wrap machine parts for pallet wrapping or heat shrink machines are not universal. Each manufacturer supplies specific components for the designed machine model. We strongly encourage contacting the company the machine was purchased from to obtain parts. This post will describe some commonly needed replacement parts for heat and pallet shrink wrap machines. If you have yet to complete a purchase, we highly recommend buying from a company that is easy to contact and can supply parts when needed to avoid down time.

Pallet Shrink Wrap Machine Parts

Many manufacturers make these machines in various styles and configurations. This parts guide is primarily for turntable pallet wrapping machines.

Previously, we have written about stretch wrap machine troubleshooting. This guide is more geared toward frequently needed parts. Remember when purchasing a machine to be sure parts and assistance are available when needed. Our pallet shrink wrap machines have a warranty and assistance if something goes wrong. Click on the link to view our selection.

Turntable Idler Wheels – These are the roller wheels under the turntable. As it rotates, the wheels spin to reduce any drag. Over time and after enough usage, the wheels will need to be replaced.
Idler Gear – The idler gear is under the turntable and can occasionally go out with heavy loads or in damp environments.
Home Switch – As the turntable completes a cycle, the home switch engages for the turntable to finish at the same spot it began. Returning home ensures the fork openings are facing the right direction. Over time the component can go out and require replacement. Many times stretch film or trash may block it, causing malfunction.
Limit Switch – Limit switches tell the film carriage how high and low to move. Many times they will need simple adjustments to continue working correctly. Over time though, they will need to be replaced.
Photo Eye – Photo eyes can get hit or become damaged over time. Depending on the pallets being wrapped, an upgrade may also be needed to help see clear or black products.
Drive Chain/Belt - A belt or chain connects the shaft from the motor to the turntable. With enough usage, the belts can begin slipping and require replacement. Chains last longer, but if one breaks, it is essential to have replacement options available.
Control Screen/Knobs – Touch screens, buttons, and knobs will need replacing over time. Broken sections or buttons can keep a machine from running correctly. Some controls are touched several times throughout the day and can wear out.
Power Cord – During operation, downtime, and even setup, power cords can become damaged and mangled. Be sure replacements are available for the machine you purchase.

These are only a few parts ideas for a pallet shrink wrapping machine. Different models and designs could have other areas that require more replacement parts with enough operation.

Heat Shrink Wrap Machine Parts

Heat shrink wrap machines are a different beast. They are used for retail and bulk packaging items. Open ends of the shrink wrap material are sealed, and heat is applied to the material. There are various designs and types of heat shrink machines. We have covered heat shrink wrapper troubleshooting tips in the past.  This is more of a guide to describe common parts that can go wrong with heat shrink wrap machines. We strongly recommend buying from a company that can assist if issues arise. View our heat shrink wrap machines from small to large; parts and machines are in stock and ready to ship.

Teflon Tape – Most small to large sealers use Teflon tape. The tape is the first defense against burning and residue build-up. It will need to be replaced often with heavy use.
Sealing Wires – Basic heat shrink wrap sealers use thin wires to heat and seal materials. The wires will burn out over time and require replacement. 
Seal Pads – Opposite the sealing wire are the seal pads. With enough seals, the pads will form channels and must be switched for new ones.
Compensator block/wire terminal – These connections hold the sealing wire in place. Over time, springs with tension can give out, or electrical shorting can require the block to be replaced.
Wire Channels – Many heat shrink wrap machine sealers have channels for the sealing blade to stay in. Over time, the channels will need to be replaced.
Fuses – Used to protect the machines from surges in current, extra fuses are always worth keeping on hand.
Relays/Contactors/Timer boards – Each used for specific purposes, they often engage and disengage throughout the day and can stop working correctly. These can be found on shrink sealers and tunnels.
Belts - Many sealers and all shrink tunnels will have conveyor belts that will become worn over time. Heavier items will cause the belts to degrade faster. These are necessary replacement parts to continue running efficiently.

Conclusion
Numerous manufacturers make shrink wrap machines for pallets or heat shrink wrapping in different configurations. Each style and manufacturer will have unique parts and schematics, but some of the parts listed are found in many machines.
For pallet shrink wrap machines with a turntable, components driving the turntable or assisting the movement of the turntable will often need to be replaced. Main control buttons and screens usually wear out over time and require replacement. The sealing area often houses the most wearable parts for heat shrink wrap machines. Tape is one of the more commonly replaced parts for these machines to keep up with proper maintenance.
If you intend to buy a shrink wrap machine or already have one and parts are difficult to find, please consider us for your next purchase. We do not offer parts for machines we don’t carry, but we stock a full line of parts for all the equipment we supply. Call 1-800-441-5090 or chat online today for details.