Keys to optimizing the performance of your Stretch Hood and avoiding stoppages and failures

How can I detect the film being used correctly on my Stretch Hood? How can I avoid errors or incidents when stretch hooding my loads? The Stretch Hood packaging system is a high-performance automatic equipment that usually causes few incidents. Still, like any industrial machine, with the use and passage of time, it may present errors in the packaging or operation, that both the technical service of the manufacturer and the customer can solve to improve the operation of the machine.

Factors such as changes in the consumable materials used, variations in the facilities’ temperature, lack of maintenance, bad operator practices, or daily use can lead to system failures or stoppages. Some problems are more obvious and easy to identify, while others may require a more exhaustive analysis and resolution.

In this article, we will take a closer look at how to identify whether a Stretch Hood is working perfectly or is experiencing problems and what preventive measures can be taken to ensure proper operation.

Starting Point: Commissioning and Start-up of Stretch Hood

At Innova Group, all equipment is designed and manufactured to ensure optimum performance from the moment it is installed and commissioned. Before installation at the customer’s plant, each system undergoes rigorous quality control and extensive testing, including Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), to meet the highest standards of performance. During the installation and commissioning phase, the machinery is tested again to ensure that everything works correctly according to all project specifications, load formats, and above all operation with actual production.

How to detect that my Stretch Hood is not working properly

Innova’s Stretch Hood system is designed to deliver optimal performance; however, as mentioned, several factors could impact its operation. Identifying problems such as uneven cuts in the hood or excessive film consumption is essential. These symptoms are often indicative of incorrect settings, component wear and tear, or insufficient maintenance, and addressing them in time can prevent unscheduled downtime and optimize the packaging process.

Some of these system errors can include:

• Strange noises or bumps coming from the machine: this is the most obvious sign that it is not working properly, either due to wear, errors in adjustments, or problems in mechanical systems such as gears, belts, or rollers. A lack of greasing can also generate friction and produce these noises.
• Excessive film usage: When there is excessive material usage, it is usually the result of incorrectly configured Stretch Hood settings. This results not only in inefficient use of materials but also in higher operating costs for the company.
• Irregular cutting: If the blade that cuts the film is worn over time, blunt due to improper maintenance, or misaligned, it does not make a clean cut, thus causing a saw-tooth effect in the film.
• The film tears at the top or bottom: This issue arises from excessive film tension caused by incorrect machine settings or using the wrong quality of film. Tears can also occur if the film has imperfections or micro-cracks.

• One or more clamps do not hold the film properly: This failure can be caused by wear of the Stretch Hood clamps, accumulation of material residue due to lack of maintenance, or mechanical misalignment. When this happens the film slips off and does not cover the load completely.
• The sealing seam tears when the film is stretched: This happens when the sealing is not done properly. Some of the main causes could be a very high sealing temperature, insufficient contact time, or the use of a film incompatible with the sealing system.
• Large corner creases: This is a failure similar to film overspending, as it is also due to an error in the machine settings. Too much film is left loose at the top of the load, causing vertical creases to be created in the corners.
• Alarms on display: Finally, and although an obvious error, alarms are a clear sign that the machine is not working properly, due to sensor errors, overheating, mechanical blockages, electrical faults, or other problems. It is a warning system that prevents further damage.

How to resolve Stretch Hood issues

During the start-up of Innova’s Stretch Hood system at the customer’s facilities, operators and maintenance staff always receive basic training to ensure proper use of the machine. This training is designed to enable the plant’s personnel to perform daily operating tasks, simple adjustments, and preventive maintenance.

However, if any of the above problems are beyond the capabilities or knowledge of the operators, the best solution is always to contact Innova’s specialized technical service.

Innova provides Technical Support Service through Remote Access to detect and solve machinery failures immediately. Through the remote connection, our Technical Support team can access the control panels of the machine to detect and repair incidents, allowing our customers to shorten the downtime of the machinery and obtain real-time information. Innova also has a network of branches in several countries from where we offer an International Technical Support Service with localized and personalized assistance.

Recommendations of use and maintenance

Innova recommends carrying out a series of cleaning and maintenance actions in the Stretch Hood that will help to prevent some of these issues:

• Periodic preventive maintenance: Implementing a preventive maintenance plan is crucial for extending the machine’s lifespan and preventing unexpected breakdowns. This includes, among other things, performing detailed inspections or replacing worn parts before they cause major problems.
• Cleaning and lubrication: Keeping the machine clean and properly lubricated helps prevent the buildup of debris that can affect its proper operation. Cleaning sensors, rollers, and clamps, as well as lubricating moving parts, is key to avoid mechanical failures. It is important to do these tasks according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Correct use of film: Another important aspect is to use films compatible with the machine’s specifications. Also, if the customer changes the film type for another with different characteristics, there are parameters that must be adjusted to avoid tearing or misuse of the material.
• Correct adjustment to pallet format changes: When there are new pallet formats in production, it is important to set up the Stretch Hood machine properly to ensure a precise adjustment of the film. The parameters must be perfectly calibrated according to the load dimensions used, to achieve high-quality packaging.
• Avoid bad practices: One of the most important aspects of minimizing errors is to prevent unqualified personnel from manipulating machine parameters. Doing so without the proper training or knowledge can misconfigure the machine and cause failures.
• Contact technical service in case of doubts: As mentioned above, in the event of any question that exceeds the qualifications of the personnel, it is best to contact the Technical Service. This prevents further damage and ensures a proper diagnosis of the problem.

In summary, the correct operation of a Stretch Hood system depends on its good maintenance and good use by the operators. Furthermore, recognizing issues early and knowing how to address them is crucial for ensuring operational continuity, reducing downtime, and extending the lifespan of the machinery.

At Innova Group, with more than 20 years of experience in the manufacturing of packaging machinery, we offer specialized technical support and customized maintenance plans to ensure that your equipment always works ‘as the first day’. Contact us to receive professional advice and get the best performance of your machinery.