Tamper proofing your product reduces theft and loss and gives the consumer confidence  to purchase. Most pharmecuticals have a tamper proof shrink sleeve around the lid , it is also widley used with cosmetics, Dvd's,  bottlles and jars for example, sauce, relish, gerkins and honey.  Shrink sleeves can be printed which allows you to promote your company whilst protecting your product.

Shrink sleeves can be applied manually or automatically by sleeve applicator machines for larger volumes.  It works on the principle of dropping the sleeve vertically in a downward direction over the top of the product or area to be tamper proofed.

In example A the stop position is determined by the diameter of the sleeve around the widening shape of the neck of the bottle so that the shrink is applied around the cap. This provides an ideal tamper proofing against opening of the cap.

Example A

Some shrink sleeves cover the entire product to provide tamper proofing and labeling at the same time as illustrated in example B. In this case the sleeve diameter is large enough to go around the widest part of the bottle and the stop position is the flat surface it is conveyed on:

Example B

In example C only the body part of the bottle is covered and it serves as labeling only. Again the sleeve is large enough to fit around the bottle stopping at the flat surface it is conveyed on.

Example C

Calculating the correct size of shrink sleeve:

1. Calculate the correct layflat width to suit your product.

2. Standard stock sizing comes in the following:
Increments of 5mm from 30mm to 120mm and
Increments of 10mm from 130mm to 250mm. 
It is important to choose sleeve that will allow minimal movement.

3. Measure the product against the selected shrink sleeve to determine length and cut at 5-10mm over this to allow overhanging.

4. Insert the product into the shrink sleeve and even up the overhang at both ends.

5. Using a heat gun, direct heat to first one end of the pack then the other end to shrink the overhang, securing pack.

6. Direct heat to the remainder of shrink sleeve until film is fully shrunk with no distortion.

7. Care must be taken when using the heat gun as the nozzle can become very hot.  Do not place the heat gun too close to the product as this will overheat the film and cause holes to form.

8. Shrink sleeves can be pre-cut into individual sleeves or left in full roll lengths of 500m.

9. To work out pre-cut amounts apply the following formula.

500 ÷ by Length = Sleeves per Roll.

Conclusion

The above tips and advice is a guide only and is intended to assist you in understanding the process. We advise that you speak with our packaging specialists first before deciding to proceed with your shrink sleeve application.

Call us now on (03 9544 9777)

Or email us info[at]ittjetpak.com.au

By: Jayde Gillies

Account Manager