The Stretch Hood pallet stretch hooding system is an innovative packaging technology that is becoming an increasingly popular end-of-line technology for many companies. Even so, many of its benefits and features are still unknown and many companies that decide to switch to Stretch Hood have questions and doubts about the suitability of Stretch Hood for their product. In addition to knowing the differences concerning other systems such as stretch wrapping or shrink hooding, many questions are raised about the Stretch Hood process itself, the film and its properties, the working dimensions, and the installation itself, among others.
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In today’s article, we will answer the most common questions, following our series of articles on the Top 10 FAQ (Frequent Asked Questions) of end-of-line packaging systems.
Stretch Hood is a unique pallet packaging system, as it protects the pallet using a hood that adapts to the load without the need to apply heat. Stretch Hood uses a tubular stretch film (Stretch Hood film) which stretches and applies to the load, covering it completely and protecting it on all sides. Unlike other systems, it only uses the exact amount of film needed to protect the load, resulting in a better-protected package with less film usage.
Stretch Hood and shrink hood pallet wrapping systems are similar only in that they both use tubular film to protect the load. But unlike shrink hooding, the Stretch Hooder stretches the film and adjusts it to the load without the use of heat ( most commonly by gas combustion ). The hooding process works this way:
Stretch Hood film is an advanced packaging film under continuous development and improvement to offer different gripping and protection results. It is a multilayer tubular film composed of Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (mLLDPE) and to a lesser extent EVA polymer, with properties for impermeability, stretchability, and elasticity.
Its multilayer structure normally used contains inner layers that offer mechanical strength and stretch (usually composed with some EVA), while its outer layers contain additives that offer resistance to puncturing and friction, as well as sealing and waterproofing (which are those composed with LLDPE).
When choosing a film to protect cargo, it is important to know the objectives of securing, protection, visibility, etc. to determine the necessary thickness, stretch properties, or protection additives (e.g. anti-UV filters).
At Innova, our technical team can advise you in choosing the type of Stretch Hood film that best suits your load. Our Stretch hood system is certified by most commercial film manufacturers in the market with different formats and types of film.
Stretch Hood is the packaging system that offers the best protection and sealing performance due to two factors: the stretch hooding process and the properties of the film.
During the stretch hooding process the machine stretches and applies the film so that it is sealed from the top to the bottom of the pallet. It can also perform a special type of wrapping with extra protection at the base so that the wooden pallet does not get wet in extremely rainy conditions.
In addition, Stretch Hood film has waterproof properties in the composition of the film. As it is a Low-Density Linear Polyethylene material, puncture and friction resistance is added to the film itself, so that it does not permit the stage of humidity and rain.
In contrast, other solutions such as the shrink wrapper can leak moisture or raindrops between the wrapping layers. In the case of the heat shrink system, the application of heat itself can generate cracks or perforate the plastic.
Depending on the type of load, the Stretch Hood provides total support for transport and handling. This is the case for stable pallets (e.g. for sack loads) or light pallets (e.g. for logistics or pharmaceuticals). However, in the case of heavy and light loads (e.g. ceramics or building materials), it is advisable to use an additional securing solution such as strapping systems or stretch wrapping with a roping application.
Nevertheless, due to advances in the development of Stretch Hood films, there are more and more films on the market with increased strength and hold-down that allow the load to be secured with a single hood. The key to securing lies in the properties of the film combined with the correct stretch application by the Stretch Hood machine.
The Stretch Hood system usually adapts to various heights required by the customer and common commercial formats. For example, Innova’s system usually wraps pallets up to 2,500 mm (8 ft), and even pallets that can be towed (as in the case of bulk / FIBC bags). Thanks to the modularity of our Stretch Hooder system, the machine can be adapted to higher loads.
With the adaptability of the Stretch Hood, unstable and high pallets can be protected with a single cover from head to toe, using much less film than a stretch wrapper for the same type of pallet.
The Stretch Hood System is famous for being able to adapt to different pallet sizes and shapes. Stretch Hood film has a high stretch capacity and there are films on the market that can stretch up to 120% for adaptability to different load sizes, in the case of multi-format production. In addition, most Stretch Hood systems offer a 2-3 reel holder capacity to accommodate these formats.
In the case of Innova’s Stretch Hood system, the standard pallet sizes are x mm (52 x 49 inches), but we also have the option of Stretch Hood large formats for loads of x mm (130 x 55 inch).
There are several sizes of Stretch Hood machines on the market depending on the manufacturer and customer needs. In Innova’s case, the Stretch Hood machine measures x mm (length x width) – 212 x 256 inches – with a height of mm (193 inches) and can be extended in height according to the customer’s wrapping needs (even with high loads). The Innova Stretch Hood system has been designed taking into account the modularity of the system itself, the safety requirements for the handling of the machine, the standard dimensions of the loads, and the standard dimensions of the production plants.
Our Stretch hood has a 4-pillar frame to provide more safety and stability in wrapping, compared to other manufacturers that only use two columns in their Stretch hoods. It also has an upper safety stop for hood carriage maintenance and the possibility of adapting to different safety requirements for access to the hooding carriage.
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Yes, Innova’s Stretch Hood system can be integrated into any automatic packaging line that requires it. Although the other systems should be of the same brand, the Innova Stretch Hood system can be retrofitted to lines with existing strapping or stretch wrapping systems to offer the advantages of stretch hooding.
In the case of such integration, our engineering team adapts both the conveyor line and the communication systems to ensure a smooth packaging process.
At Innova, we connect with the most commonly used communication and PLC systems in the packaging and end-of-line industry. We offer integrations and compatibility with Omron, Siemens, Rockwell, or Schneider systems among others.
Consult without obligation the compatibility of Stretch Hood with the system of your factory.
In short, there are many generic questions about the Stretch Hood system and other more specific questions about the system manufactured by Innova. Whether they are issues of mechanics, electronics, components, film consumption, or system integrations… our Engineering and Technical and Commercial Consulting teams can solve them without obligation.
Do not hesitate to contact us with any questions regarding the Stretch Hood system or any other Innova packaging solution, we will be happy to assist you.
Stretch hood films are a great way for securing and protecting goods during transportation and storage. As a leading manufacturer, Layfield offers a range of custom stretch hood films designed to meet diverse industry needs. Here are some critical factors to consider when designing stretch hood film:
The gauge, or thickness, of the film affects its strength and durability. Depending on the application, you might require a thicker gauge for heavier or more demanding loads. Layfield offers a range of gauges to ensure that the film provides the necessary protection and performance for your specific needs.
The holding force of the stretch hood film is a measure of its ability to keep the load stable and secure. A higher holding force ensures that the products remain tightly wrapped, reducing the risk of shifting or damage during transportation. Layfield’s films are designed to provide optimal holding force for various applications.
Stretchability is a key property of stretch hood film, allowing it to conform tightly to the load and accommodate irregular shapes. Layfield’s films are engineered to offer excellent stretch properties, ensuring a snug fit and reliable protection for your products.
One of the primary considerations in designing stretch hood film is its size capabilities. At Layfield, we can manufacture films in various sizes, catering to small, medium, and very large loads. This flexibility ensures that your products, regardless of their dimensions, are securely wrapped and protected.
Different applications require specific film properties. For example, if you’re covering bricks, you need a film with high tear resistance to withstand the sharp edges and heavy weight. Layfield can design films tailored to meet the unique demands of various industries, ensuring optimal performance and protection.
Consistency in how the film runs on the stretch hood machine is critical to maintaining efficiency and reducing downtime. Layfield’s films are designed to run smoothly on SH machines, with features that prevent blocking in the gussets, ensuring a hassle-free packaging process.
The opacity of the film is another important factor. Depending on the application, you might need a film that is fully transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque. Transparent films are ideal for easy product identification and barcode scanning, while opaque films can provide privacy and protection from light exposure.
Stretch hood films can be produced in a variety of colors to meet specific branding requirements or to identify different products easily. Custom colors can enhance brand visibility and streamline inventory management by allowing quick identification of products based on color coding.
For products stored outdoors or exposed to sunlight, UV protection is crucial. Layfield’s stretch hood films can be designed with UV inhibitors to prevent degradation and extend the life of the packaging. This ensures that your products remain secure and undamaged, even in harsh sunlight conditions.
On some occasions, custom printing on stretch hood films is a way to provide important information directly on the packaging. Whether you need your logo, handling instructions, or product details printed on the film, Layfield can accommodate your needs. Alternatively, non-printed films are also available for a clean and simple look.
Layfield now offers horizontal stretch hood films, a new machine type on the market for certain applications. This innovative approach allows for wrapping loads horizontally, providing an alternative solution for specific packaging needs and enhancing the versatility of our product offerings.
Discover Layfield’s Stretch Tech, a perfect blend of top-quality, competitively priced pallet packaging with exceptional memory, stretch, and snap-back capabilities. This product provides unparalleled elasticity and performance, ensuring smooth plant operations and maintained product quality. With our industrial expertise steering the way, experience a worry-free operation where protection and efficiency drive your business to new heights of success.
In conclusion, designing stretch hood film involves considering various factors to ensure that it meets the specific needs of different applications. At Layfield, we are committed to providing high-quality, customizable stretch hood films that offer superior protection and performance for your products. Contact us today to learn more about our capabilities and how we can help you with your packaging needs.