Product Conveyance and Shrink Wrap Integration

Integrated shrink wrapping and intelligent conveyance system to improve packaging flexibility, optimize product flow, and prepare facility for future expansion

Capabilities Demonstrated

  • Conveyor system design and integration
  • Controls engineering and PLC programming
  • Product flow analysis and optimization
  • Automated jam detection and line monitoring
  • Packaging equipment evaluation and specification
  • Mechanical installation and startup support
  • Production line modernization
  • System commissioning and operator support

The Challenge

A food manufacturing client required significant modifications to an existing production line to meet updated customer packaging requirements. The facility needed to integrate a new shrink wrapping operation capable of handling a family of products with varying dimensions, packaging configurations, and throughput requirements.

The client also needed improved controls and monitoring throughout the conveyance system to reduce production interruptions caused by product jams and inconsistent flow conditions. Existing floor space limitations added another layer of complexity, as the plant planned to install additional production lines in the future and needed to maximize available manufacturing space.

To address these challenges, the client partnered with Re:Build Optimation to develop a complete fixed-bid design and build solution capable of integrating the new packaging equipment while improving overall line reliability and flexibility.

Approach

Re:Build Optimation began the project with an in-depth investigation of the existing production process, packaging requirements, and facility constraints. The engineering team evaluated product dimensions, production rates, accumulation requirements, and available installation space to determine the most effective system layout and equipment strategy.

Because a single shrink wrapper would be required to process multiple product types, extensive research was conducted to identify equipment capable of accommodating varying package sizes while maintaining the required production throughput. Multiple wrapper configurations and vendor offerings were reviewed to ensure the selected solution provided both flexibility and long-term reliability.

In parallel, Re:Build Optimation analyzed the existing conveyor system and product flow characteristics to identify opportunities for improved accumulation, jam prevention, and floor space optimization. The project team collaborated closely with plant personnel to develop a phased implementation strategy that minimized disruption to ongoing production while allowing for future facility expansion.

Solution

Re:Build Optimation delivered a fully integrated shrink wrapping and conveyance solution designed to optimize packaging performance, improve product handling reliability, and support future manufacturing growth. 

Key project upgrades included:

  • Specification and integration of a flexible shrink wrapper capable of processing a family of products with varying dimensional and wrapping requirements
  • Development of a recirculating staging and accumulation area to absorb temporary throughput imbalances between upstream production and downstream packaging capacity
  • Re-routing and ceiling-mounting of conveyors to free valuable floor space for future production lines and facility expansion
  • Integration of dedicated photo eyes throughout the conveyor system for real-time product tracking and jam detection
  • PLC-based flow controls and automated line monitoring to detect, prevent, and notify operators of conveyor jams and abnormal operating conditions
  • Full electrical and controls integration into the plant’s existing PLC infrastructure
  • Mechanical assembly and installation performed by Re:Build Optimation tradesmen prior to system startup and commissioning
  • In addition, many components exposed to high levels of cullet were upgraded with chromium carbide wear liners to increase durability and reduce future maintenance requirements.

The completed system provided intelligent product flow management while maintaining consistent throughput to the shrink wrapper, reducing operator intervention and minimizing the risk of downtime caused by conveyor congestion or product accumulation.

Results

Re:Build Optimation successfully completed the project within a 30-week timeline, delivering a modernized packaging and conveyance system that improved operational efficiency and production flexibility.

The upgraded system enabled the client to meet updated customer packaging requirements while maintaining reliable production throughput across multiple product configurations. Enhanced conveyor controls and active jam detection significantly reduced the risk of line stoppages and improved overall process visibility for plant operators.

By relocating portions of the conveyor system overhead, the project also created valuable floor space that positioned the facility for future production line additions and long-term operational growth.

System Overview

The modernization included:

  • Flexible shrink wrapping equipment for multiple product formats
  • Recirculating product staging and accumulation system
  • Ceiling-mounted conveyor routing and support structures
  • Conveyor-mounted photo eye sensors for product tracking and jam detection
  • PLC-integrated flow control and line monitoring systems
  • Electrical controls integration with existing plant infrastructure
  • Mechanical installation, startup, and commissioning support

Benefits & Impact

  • Enabled compliance with updated customer packaging requirements
  • Improved product flow consistency and packaging throughput
  • Reduced downtime risk through active jam detection and flow controls
  • Increased operational flexibility for multiple product configurations
  • Freed floor space for future manufacturing expansion
  • Improved operator visibility into line performance and system conditions
  • Delivered a complete turnkey solution within schedule and budget

Ready to Partner?

Let’s talk about your unique challenges and how Re:Build Optimation can help you.