Shrink tunnels are needed for any volume production. For semi automatic and automatic wrapping systems the tunnel should be attached to the wrapper for smooth, continuous operation. The most reasonable choice is to purchase the tunnel from the same company that made the wrapper, unless the heat requirements or dimensions suggest otherwise.

The most important parameters to observe are:
1.The width and height of the opening to fit the parts.
2. The type of belt or rollers that will carry the parts through the heat.
3. The length of the oven.
4. Max temperature and power.
5. Type of heat and type of temperature control.
6. Belt speed.

Items 3, 4, 5 and 6 determine the amount of time that the part is in the hot zone. The actual time required depends on the type of film, size of product and uniformity of temperature. The most common film materials are PVC and polyolefin. The tunnels listed can handle both materials in the 60 to 100 gage range.