The End of the Line is Only the Beginning

Manufacturers are constantly charged with implementing new processes that could lead to greater efficiencies. From the outside looking in, that may sound like an easy task.

But down on the manufacturing floor, changes to any part of the process – from the beginning of the line to the end – must be handled with care. This sensitivity to potential process variation often leads to “the fear factor” – the idea that changes lead to trouble.

With that in mind, manufacturers must identify ways to make changes that are easy to incorporate and choose processes that quickly and easily yield benefits. When looking to create new efficiencies on the line, it is very common to focus upstream of the stretch wrapper.

However, it is important to remember that any improvements (and investments) that are made will be wasted if the product arrives damaged. Load containment is the key, especially where accidents can lead to disaster for the manufacturer and the end user.

WHY STRETCH WRAP?
Stretch wrapping may be the last operation before the product leaves the manufacturing plant, but it is the very first thing the customer sees when it enters into their facility.

Many shops have made the transitions from boxes to trays to pads, while metal fabricators are becoming more reliant on stretch wrapping to ensure their product makes it to customers intact and unharmed.