Arm Stretch Wrapper with Edge Protector Applicator: Maximum Protection and Stability
How can you achieve total compaction of a palletized load? How can you ensure its protection during transport? How can you protect the load from the packaging application itself? To meet all these needs, the edge protector applicator system is one of the most widely used accessories in strapping systems—and now also in stretch wrapping.
At Innova, we present the edge protector applicator system, now integrated into the automatic arm stretch wrapper, which until now was only available for strapping systems and ring wrapping systems. It allows you to combine the efficiency of automatic stretch wrapping with additional protection on the pallet’s edges, without the need for external processes or manual intervention.
When Are Edge Protectors Necessary?
The edge protector applicator system is especially useful in sectors where boxes are used to transport the product. Edge protectors are typically applied before the strapping process, since the straps can damage the boxes. In the case of the arm stretch wrapper, although the tension on the box is more uniform, it may also cause damage depending on the type of wrapping or when applying the reinforcement rope.
What Advantages Does the Edge Protector Applicator System Offer?
Edge protectors not only serve to protect the palletized product, but they also provide several additional benefits related to load stability:
- Load compaction: The edge protector applicator system compacts the load into a single block, making it more uniform and improving pallet stability throughout the entire logistics process.
- Absorption of damage on the edges: During transport and storage, loads may suffer damage from impacts or abrasions. Edge protectors help cushion these impacts by protecting the pallet’s sides and edges.
- Improved storage: Edge protectors increase stacking resistance for palletized goods.
- Impeccable presentation: The pallet has a cleaner, more defined appearance, enhancing the company’s brand image.
- Support for lightweight loads: Lightweight loads may become unstable during the wrapping process. The edge protector applicator system provides support and compaction, ensuring the load remains completely stable and secure.
Which Sectors Need an Arm Stretch Wrapper with Edge Protection?
The edge protector applicator is the perfect solution for industries that need additional load support but cannot apply strapping due to the risk of damaging their product. The arm stretch wrapper, together with this protection system, allows companies to secure and protect delicate loads without compromising their integrity.
1. Electronics
A sector whose final product is extremely fragile and of high value, requiring the highest level of protection. Loads made up of computers, monitors, speakers, telecommunications equipment, or other electronic components require meticulous protection. Applying edge protectors in the arm stretch wrapper helps protect the edges from potential impacts, while providing greater block unitization to prevent movement during transport.
2. Food and FMCG
Food products must arrive at the point of sale in perfect condition; therefore, load protection is essential. Products such as dairy items, bottles, or other fragile foods like snacks or lightweight boxed goods can deform or collapse during transport if their edges lack proper reinforcement, especially when stored in multiple layers. Additionally, the edge protector applicator provides a more uniform and aesthetic appearance—something highly valued in the retail sector.
3. Small household appliances
Similar to electronics, this sector also handles fragile and high-value products. Items such as coffee machines, microwaves, or kitchen robots transported in boxes require this extra protection. The edge protector applicator reinforces the load’s weakest points, ensuring that these appliances reach the end customer in perfect condition.
4. Cosmetics and pharmaceuticals
These industries work with lightweight, high-value products. Loads typically consist of small boxes containing glass bottles, ampoules, and other primary packaging that cannot be subjected to excessive pressure or strong impacts. Edge protectors provide structural reinforcement that prevents crushing, maintains pallet stability, and protects the load’s edges during transport and storage.
Innova’s Arm Stretch Wrapper with Edge Protectors
This system consists of the AWS|PRO automatic arm stretch wrapper combined with the AC|PRO vertical edge protector applicator. It operates as follows: First, the edge protectors are applied to the pallet’s edges. While the applicator’s arms hold them in place, an initial wrap is applied to secure them. Once the protectors are firmly attached to the pallet, the applicator plates retract, allowing the wrapping cycle to finish and fully cover the load.
- Edge protector material: Cardboard
- Edge protector size range: From 45 x 45 mm to 60 x 60 mm
- Standard load height: From 500 mm to 2000 mm
- Modular edge protector magazine: Up to 300 units (standard)
The arm stretch wrapper with edge protectors is the perfect solution for sectors that need to improve load stabilization, protection, and aesthetics while maintaining a high stretch-wrapping cycle speed. At Innova Group, we design and manufacture packaging systems tailored to the specific needs of our customers. Contact us and discover how we can help you achieve maximum efficiency in your end-of-line. Our technical team will be happy to assist you!
