Krones displays energy-efficient shrink tunnel at Interpack

Krones' exhibit in Hall 13 addressed the high energy consumption typically associated with shrink-wrapping operations. Recognising that the shrink tunnel is often the most resource-heavy component of a filling and packaging line, the engineering team redesigned the unit to manage heat distribution more effectively under controlled conditions. The design overhaul focused on how thermal energy was fed into the system, ensuring that heat was applied with greater precision to the film while minimising waste.

The upgraded Variopac Pro shrink tunnel was developed through feedback from industry personnel with hands-on operational experience. This practical approach led to a design that prioritised both sustainability and output quality. By fine-tuning the internal airflow and heat application, the machine ensured a consistent shrink-wrap finish across various pack sizes while significantly lowering the overall kilowatt-hour requirement per cycle.

Beyond the energy savings, the machine was engineered to maintain high shrink-wrap quality, which is critical for the stability of palletised goods during transit. The exhibit highlighted the technical shift toward integrated efficiency, where thermal management was treated with the same level of precision as mechanical throughput. Visitors at the booth observed how these modifications impact the carbon footprint of high-volume beverage and food packaging lines.