The STS AL-ALC is a PLC-controlled automatic L-bar sealer designed to improve shrink-packaging speed, consistency and operator efficiency. Horizontal and vertical photo eyes detect incoming products, while the automatic sealing system creates a finished film enclosure around each package. Therefore, the machine can support continuous production without requiring an operator to activate every sealing cycle manually.
Additionally, the STS AL-ALC features automatic scrap-film collection, adjustable pin perforation and safety-guarded operation. Its compact footprint also makes it easier to integrate with an appropriately sized shrink tunnel.
First, an operator loads center-folded shrink film and adjusts the machine for the product dimensions. Next, the infeed conveyor moves the product toward the sealing area. Horizontal and vertical photo eyes then detect its position and profile.
After detection, the PLC coordinates the film movement and sealing cycle. The solid L-shaped sealing blade creates the side and trailing seals around the package. Meanwhile, adjustable pin perforators create small openings that allow trapped air to escape during shrinking.
The automatic scrap wind-up system collects the trimmed film as production continues. Finally, the sealed package transfers to a compatible shrink tunnel, where controlled heat shrinks the film around the product.
The STS AL-ALC handles packages from 4 to 17.75 inches long. Additionally, it accommodates product widths from 2.375 to 13.75 inches and heights from 0.125 to 4.75 inches.
Because product dimensions affect film travel and sealing clearance, all three measurements should be reviewed together. Consequently, sample testing may help confirm performance for unusually shaped, lightweight or closely spaced products.
The 22-by-18-inch seal-bar arrangement supports a maximum film width of 23.5 inches. However, the correct film width, gauge and formulation depend on the product and shrink-tunnel configuration.
| Specification | STS AL-ALC |
|---|---|
| Machine type | Automatic L-bar sealer |
| Control system | PLC controlled |
| Package length | 4–17.75 inches |
| Package width | 2.375–13.75 inches |
| Package height | 0.125–4.75 inches |
| Seal-bar dimensions | 22 × 18 inches |
| Maximum film width | 23.5 inches |
| AL conveyor speed | 78 feet per minute |
| ALC conveyor speed | Variable from 0–82 feet per minute |
| Machine dimensions | 70 L × 39 W × 62 H inches |
| Electrical power | 220 VAC, single phase, 60 Hz, 15 amps |
| Compressed air | 90 PSI |
| Frame construction | Laser-cut steel with powder-coated finish |
Actual production output depends on product dimensions, spacing, film characteristics, sealing settings and the connected shrink tunnel.
The STS AL-ALC includes PLC controls, horizontal and vertical photo eyes and solid sealing blades with rounded corners. Additionally, adjustable pin perforators support proper air evacuation from the film.
Guarding with safety switches protects the sealing area. Meanwhile, the automatic scrap wind-up system helps keep trimmed film organized during production.
Quick-change adjustments simplify setup for different package dimensions. Furthermore, the powder-coated laser-cut steel frame provides a rigid platform for continuous packaging operations.
The STS AL configuration provides an automatic L-sealing system with a listed conveyor speed of 78 feet per minute. In contrast, the STS ALC configuration provides variable conveyor speed from 0 to 82 feet per minute and can include a closing conveyor.
Consequently, the ALC configuration may provide greater control when package spacing, product length or tunnel transfer requires adjustable conveyor movement. However, final selection should consider the complete shrink-wrapping line rather than conveyor speed alone.
The STS AL-ALC can package a wide range of individual products and multipacks. For example, common applications may include:
Additionally, shrink film can provide tamper evidence, product bundling and protection from dust or handling. However, film type and sealing settings should always match the product and operating environment.
For a complete automatic shrink-packaging line, the STS AL-ALC can feed sealed packages into the STS 1609-3 shrink tunnel. Therefore, the sealer and tunnel should be evaluated together for package clearance, conveyor height, speed and electrical requirements.
Alternatively, operations that do not require automatic product detection can consider the STS ML1-K semi-automatic L-bar sealer. That model provides a more operator-controlled solution for lower-volume shrink-packaging applications.
Ameripak helps packaging operations evaluate product dimensions, film requirements, production speed and tunnel compatibility before selecting equipment. As a result, buyers can configure the STS AL-ALC around the complete packaging process.
Additionally, Ameripak can support equipment integration, replacement parts and ongoing shrink-packaging requirements. Ultimately, this application-focused approach helps create a more dependable and efficient production line.
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