SH-3 Hooding Machine | Stretch Hooder for Secure Packaging

Enhance Your Packaging Security with the SH-3 Stretch Hooder

The SH-3 Automatic Stretch Hooder machine by SHJLPACK offers a state-of-the-art solution for securing palletized loads using stretch film hooding. This technology provides superior stability and protection for your goods.

Unlike traditional methods, the SH-3 operates using a single workstation and applies a pre-stretched film hood without requiring any heat sources. The inherent elasticity of the film guarantees extreme load stability, reduces material costs by allowing the use of thinner films, and eliminates the need for gas used in shrink-wrapping processes. It effectively protects packaged goods from environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and UV rays.

The SH-3 is versatile, capable of handling up to three film reels of the same or different sizes with automatic changeover. Optional features, such as a dedicated conveyor and lifting system, can be integrated to further optimize the packaging process and provide enhanced film reinforcement under the pallet.

How the SH-3 Automatic Stretch Hooder Works

The SH-3 represents a new concept in goods protection, combining simplicity with robust performance characteristic of SHJLPACK products.

The operation follows a precise, safe sequence:

1. Product Entry: The product to be wrapped enters the machine on a conveyor and is precisely centered under the hooding station.
2. Safety Check: An electronic control system monitors for product protrusions or deformation to prevent collisions with the hooding arc.

The machine cycle primarily involves two key phases, often performed parallel to product introduction to minimize cycle time:

Phase 1: Hood Preparation

• Hoods are prepared in the upper section of the machine.
• Special rollers unwind the stretch film from the selected reel.
• Film consumption is optimized; an optional external reading system automatically determines hood dimensions.
• A welding and cutting unit creates the hood by sealing and then cutting the film.
• A mechanical gripping system takes hold of the prepared hood.
• The tubular hood is opened using four electronically controlled clamps that move transversally and longitudinally.

Phase 2: Hood Application

• Once the required opening is achieved, the clamps shape the hood's inlet rectangle to fit the product.
• The hooding arc descends, applying the tensioned hood over the product down to the base of the pallet.
• Vertical movements of the hooding machine are driven by chain transmissions, incorporating an anti-fall control system for safety.

The dedicated conveyor for the SH-3 is typically specialized for the machine and can include a lifting feature.

Benefits and Applications of Stretch Hood Technology

Stretch hood packaging, also known as elastic hooding, is rapidly gaining popularity across industrial sectors due to its clear advantages in load stability and security.

The process, facilitated by machines like the SHJLPACK SH-3, leverages the full elasticity of special tubular films. These films are cut, tensioned, and applied over the product on the pallet base. As the film relaxes, its elastic properties cause it to tightly conform to the load, creating a firm and strong package.

This innovative method allows for faster wrapping using less material while creating a waterproof and weather-resistant hood. This makes it ideal for storing goods outdoors or transporting them on open trucks.

Key properties of stretch hood film include:

• Resistance to tearing and puncturing
• Slipperiness
• High elasticity
• Strong clamping force

The resulting packaging offers enhanced tightness and load stability, making this technology suitable for intensive use in numerous industries, such as:

• Building (ceramics, sanitary ware, bricks, marble, adhesives, cements, calcium, plaster)
• Chemical (granules, colors, varnishes, fertilizers, composites)
• Food (cereals, flours, animal feed)
• Beverage (mineral waters, soft drinks, fruit juices, beer, wine)
• Appliance industry

Furthermore, the elastic hood is particularly advantageous for palletizing products sensitive to heat, where shrinking ovens or open flames are not recommended.

Key Machine Features

The SH-3 Automatic Stretch Hooder is built with quality components for reliable performance:

• Central body featuring two steel movable crosspieces and pliers holders guided by recirculating ball guides.
• Horizontal structure houses the welding bar and cutting device, controlled by a FESTO cylinder.
• Four brushed steel pliers equipped with Vulkan film collection wheels.
• Electro-mechanically and pneumatically controlled bellow opening unit.
• Hooding arc driven by a gearmotor via an inverter.
• Automatic film height and size reading via sonar and cameras.
• Single or multi-format reel holder (maximum diameter 800 mm) with an end-of-reel signaling device.
• Electric control panel managed by a PLC with a touch screen interface.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Specification
Suitable Film	Stretching Polyethylene
Film Thickness	80 - 140 micron
Power Supplied	400V Three-Phase - 50 Hz
Installed Power	11 kW
Air Pressure	6 bar
Air Consumption	50 Nl/cycle

Safety Compliance

All machines produced by SHJLPACK comply with safety and health protection requirements, adhering to the “Machinery Directive 2006/42 / EC” and relevant harmonized reference standards.