The STS CM178 is an automatic continuous-motion side-seal shrink wrapper designed for products up to 16 inches wide and 8 inches high. Variable-speed VFD conveyors maintain controlled product movement, while the film-feed and sealing systems form a protective film enclosure around each package. Therefore, the machine can support efficient shrink-packaging lines without stopping product flow for every sealing cycle.
Additionally, the STS CM178 includes a color Command Center, variable-speed film feed and automatic scrap-film take-up. Its easy-load film cradle simplifies film changes, while safety-interlocked guarding protects the operating area.
First, products enter the machine on the variable-speed infeed conveyor. Next, the film-delivery system guides center-folded shrink film around each product.
As the package advances, the sealing system creates the required side and cross seals. Meanwhile, the variable-speed film-feed system maintains controlled film movement. The scrap take-up system then collects excess film trimmed during sealing.
Finally, the enclosed package exits the STS CM178 and enters a compatible shrink tunnel. Controlled heat then contracts the film around the product to create the finished package.
The STS CM178 handles products from 2 to 16 inches wide and up to 8 inches high. Additionally, its continuous side-seal design accommodates products with unrestricted length.
Because product width, height and shape affect the required film size, all dimensions should be evaluated together. Consequently, irregular, lightweight or closely spaced products may require sample testing.
The conveyor operates from 0 to 100 feet per minute. However, actual production output depends on product length, spacing, film characteristics, sealing settings and the connected shrink tunnel.
| Specification | STS CM178 |
|---|---|
| Machine type | Automatic continuous-motion side-seal shrink wrapper |
| Minimum package width | 2 inches |
| Maximum package width | 16 inches |
| Maximum package height | 8 inches |
| Package length | Unrestricted |
| Conveyor speed | Variable from 0–100 feet per minute |
| Standard conveyor height | 35 inches |
| Adjustable conveyor height | 34–36 inches |
| Machine dimensions | 43 W × 91 L × 60 H inches |
| Electrical power | 120 VAC, 15 amps |
| Compressed air | 1 CFM at 90 PSI |
| Film configuration | Center-folded shrink film |
| Controls | Color Command Center with help menus |
Actual production output depends on package dimensions, spacing, film selection, conveyor settings and tunnel performance. Final utilities and configuration should be confirmed before installation.
The STS CM178 includes variable-speed VFD conveyors and a color Command Center with operator help menus. Additionally, setup scales provide repeatable reference points during product changeovers.
Variable-speed film feed controls material delivery as the package moves through the machine. Meanwhile, automatic scrap take-up collects the trimmed film for a cleaner production area.
The easy-load film cradle accepts center-folded shrink film. Furthermore, an optional centerfolder may support applications that begin with single-wound film, depending on the selected configuration.
Maintenance Mode assists with customized product setup. Finally, soft-start and soft-stop operation and safety-interlocked guarding promote more controlled machine operation.
Product dimensions, conveyor speed and film settings work together to determine package quality. For example, longer products require appropriate spacing so the cross-seal system can separate consecutive packages.
Additionally, film tension and feed speed must match conveyor movement. Improper adjustment can create excess film, distorted seals or inconsistent package appearance.
After sealing, the package must spend enough time inside the shrink tunnel to contract the film properly. Therefore, the wrapper and tunnel speeds should be coordinated as one system.
The STS CM178 suits automated shrink-packaging applications involving products with varying lengths. For example, common applications may include:
Additionally, shrink film can improve product presentation and protect against dust and routine handling. Depending on the film and package design, it can also provide tamper evidence or product bundling.
The sealed package must pass through a properly sized heat tunnel to complete the shrinking process. Ameripak offers several STS shrink tunnel configurations with different chamber sizes and operating capacities. Therefore, the tunnel should be selected according to the CM178 package dimensions, conveyor speed and film requirements.
For smaller products that do not require continuous side sealing, the STS AL-ALC automatic L-bar sealer provides another automated option. Alternatively, the STS ML1-K semi-automatic L-bar sealer can support lower-volume operations that prefer greater operator control.
Ameripak helps packaging operations evaluate product dimensions, shrink film, production speed, tunnel capacity and line integration. As a result, buyers can configure the STS CM178 around the complete shrink-packaging process.
Additionally, Ameripak can support equipment selection, installation planning, replacement parts and ongoing packaging requirements. Ultimately, this application-focused approach helps businesses improve shrink quality, equipment compatibility and production reliability.
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