Steam Shrink Tunnels

for Uniform Shrink Sleeve Processing

Gentle, precise shrinking of sleeve films using steam

The DESPC-1500 and DESPC-2500 steam shrink tunnels ensure controlled and even shrink sleeve application on bottles, cans and a wide range of other containers. Precise steam distribution helps the film conform smoothly to the contours of each product, reducing wrinkles and uneven areas.

Because steam distributes heat evenly, steam shrink tunnels are particularly suitable for complex container shapes and temperature-sensitive products. They can reliably process full-body sleeves, partial-body sleeves and tamper-evident bands.

Uniform steam distribution for complex container shapes

An integrated low-pressure steam drum distributes steam evenly throughout the tunnel using a robust steel pipe system. Each tunnel section contains individually adjustable stainless steel steam pipes.

The height and steam output of the pipes can be adapted to the product, container geometry and shrink film being used. This allows the shrinking process to be precisely configured for different packaging requirements.

The controlled process supports a clean and consistent finish, even on bottles, cans and containers featuring:

  • Curved or rounded surfaces
  • Recessed grips
  • Varying diameters
  • Complex contours
  • Sensitive surfaces or contents

Benefits of the DESPC-1500 and DESPC-2500 steam shrink tunnels

  • Smooth and gentle shrinking of sleeve films
  • Accurate, low-wrinkle conformity to product contours
  • Suitable for a wide range of container shapes and film materials
  • Controlled steam distribution via a low-pressure steam drum
  • Individually height-adjustable stainless steel steam pipes
  • Adjustable steam output
  • Waterproof and easy-to-clean construction
  • Tunnel housing and condensate collection tray made from 304 stainless steel
  • Suitable for full-body sleeves, partial-body sleeves and tamper-evident bands
  • Can be combined with a conveyor and shrink sleeve applicator
  • Suitable for integration into existing packaging lines

Hygienic stainless steel construction and easy cleaning

The tunnel housing and condensate collection tray are manufactured from corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel. The waterproof and robust construction facilitates regular cleaning and supports hygienic production processes.

Its operator- and maintenance-friendly design makes the steam shrink tunnel easy to integrate into day-to-day production.

Suitable for a wide range of shrink sleeve applications

Our steam shrink tunnels can be used for numerous products and packaging formats. Typical applications include:

  • Beverage, cosmetic and cleaning product bottles
  • Cans and jars
  • Plastic and metal containers
  • Full-body shrink sleeves
  • Partial-body shrink sleeves
  • Tamper-evident and security bands
  • Products with asymmetric or strongly curved contours

The required settings and equipment options depend on factors such as the container shape, film material and required production capacity.

Our Steam shrink tunnels in use

Tamper-evident closure for jars with shrink sleeves & sleeve labelling machine

Seal bottles securely with shrink sleeves - sleeve labelling machine & heat tunnel

Integrating a steam shrink tunnel into an automated packaging line

For a continuous packaging process, the steam tunnel can be combined with a conveyor and an automatic shrink sleeve applicator. The applicator positions the sleeves on the containers before they enter the tunnel, where the film is shrunk evenly and precisely.

This combination makes it possible to automate the entire process, from sleeve application to the finished shrink result. The system can also be integrated into an existing packaging line.

Technical features of our steam shrink tunnels

  • Models: DESPC-1500 and DESPC-2500
  • Waterproof design
  • Uniform steam distribution via a low-pressure steam drum
  • Individually adjustable tunnel sections
  • Height-adjustable stainless steel steam pipes
  • Adjustable steam output
  • Tunnel housing made from 304 stainless steel
  • Condensate collection tray made from 304 stainless steel
  • Optional integration with a conveyor and shrink sleeve applicator

The specific system configuration can be adapted to your products, shrink film and packaging line requirements.

Buy a steam shrink tunnel – request expert advice

Are you interested in our sleeve shrink tunnels, or would you like a no-obligation consultation with our packaging experts? Contact us at +49 2235 79479-0 or email info_at_alphapack.de. We look forward to optimizing your packaging line.

Suitable Packaging Materials for Sleeve Steam Tunnels

Frequently asked questions about steam shrink tunnels

A steam shrink tunnel is a machine used to shrink sleeve films onto containers in a controlled process. Containers fitted with shrink sleeves are transported through the tunnel and evenly exposed to steam. The heat causes the film to contract and conform closely to the shape of the container.

Steam shrink tunnels are especially suitable for bottles, cans, jars and other containers with complex geometries. This includes products with curves, recessed grips or varying diameters. Temperature-sensitive products may also benefit from the controlled and even distribution of heat.

A steam shrink tunnel can process full-body sleeves, partial-body sleeves, tamper-evident bands and security seals. Suitability depends on the film material, product and required process settings.

Steam transfers heat very evenly to the shrink film. This can help produce a precise, smooth and low-wrinkle finish, particularly on containers with complex shapes. The best technology for a specific application depends on the product, film material, production speed and operating environment.

Yes. The steam shrink tunnels feature a waterproof, easy-to-clean construction. The tunnel housing and condensate collection tray are made from corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel, helping to support hygienic production processes.

Yes. The tunnel can be combined with a conveyor and an automatic shrink sleeve applicator and incorporated into an existing packaging line. The final system design depends on the containers, line speed and available interfaces.

The appropriate model and configuration depend on factors such as container dimensions, product shape, film material and required production capacity. Based on this information, our packaging specialists can recommend a suitable solution.

+49 2235 794790


+49 2235 794796


send inquiry


+49 2235 794790


+49 2235 794796


send inquiry