In this video, we're going to talk about the strapper and the stretch wrapper, two pieces of equipment at the end of the can line.  

The purpose of the strapper is to secure or unitize the pallet so that it can be transported without losing any cans. After the unsecured pallet leaves the hoist well, it is transported by chain conveyor to the first strapper.


The strapper feeds polyester strapping through the pallet, encircling it from the top and returning to the starting point. Next, the strapper tensions the strapping before sealing the loop and cutting away the excess material. Typically, two straps are applied to the pallet immediately after it exits the palletizer, providing initial security for safe movement to the next strapping station.


After a ninety-degree turn on the chain conveyor, the pallet arrives at the second strapper, which adds two to three more straps. Once the final strap is applied, the pallet is secure and ready for transport.

Depending on the location of the can plant and the destination of the cans, a stretch wrapper may also be utilized. The stretch wrapper applies a film around the pallet of cans to protect it during transportation and storage, particularly in environments with excess dust and humidity.


The unitized pallet leaves the strapper on the chain conveyor and approaches the stretch wrapper. Typically, the pallet remains stationary while a rotary arm rotates around it, applying the stretch wrapping at a predefined tension. Once the pallet exits the stretch wrapper, it is both secure and protected from the elements.