When it comes to using a Ripack® shrink gun, the choice of gas is essential to guarantee both the heating performance and the durability of the equipment. Our equipment works exclusively with propane in the gaseous phase or bio-propane, and it is strictly forbidden to use butane, as this would compromise the correct operation and […]
Which gas should I use with Ripack® shrink guns ?
When it comes to using a Ripack® shrink gun, the choice of gas is essential to guarantee both the heating performance and the durability of the equipment. Our equipment works exclusively with propane in the gaseous phase or bio-propane, and it is strictly forbidden to use butane, as this would compromise the correct operation and longevity of the equipment.
In certain hot and humid countries such as Argentina, India, the United Arab Emirates and tropical countries, a mixture of butane and propane can be used, provided that a specific injector supplied by Ripack® is used. This type of gas is designed to adapt to the particular climatic conditions of these regions and guarantee optimum use of the equipment. Natural gas can be used under certain conditions.
Why use propane?
Propane is a gas widely used in industry and construction for applications requiring a powerful and stable heat source. Here are the main reasons why propane is the recommended gas for our Ripack® guns:
- Excellent combustion: It offers optimum heating power, ensuring fast, even shrinkage of LDPE films.
- Safe to use: In the gaseous phase, it ensures reliable operation with no risk of damage to the gun’s internal components.
- Availability: Propane is readily available in cylinders from DIY shops, service stations and specialist suppliers.
Propane cylinders used in industrial applications are generally available in a range of sizes, up to 44kg. It is important to note that these values correspond to the quantity of gas contained, to which the weight of the steel cylinder must be added to obtain the total weight. To facilitate transport and handling, we recommend the use of suitable Ripack® trolleys.
Bio-propane: an environmentally-friendly alternative
Our Ripack® shrink guns are also compatible with bio-propane, a gas of renewable origin offering the same performance as fossil propane, with a 70% reduced impact on CO2 emissions. Using bio-propane is an ideal solution for companies wishing to adopt a more environmentally-friendly approach, without compromising on efficiency.
Why not use butane ?
Butane is incompatible with Ripack® shrink guns for several reasons:
- Higher boiling point: At low temperatures, butane tends not to vaporise properly, which can lead to reduced performance and difficult ignition.
- Deposits and residues: Using butane can cause internal deposits, impairing the gun’s operation and reducing its service life.
- Technical incompatibility: Our guns are designed for the optimum pressure and flow rate provided by propane gas.
What about natural gas?
Our Ripack® shrink guns can also run on natural gas (or town gas) with certain specific adaptations. It is important to comply with the following criteria for optimum use:
- Network pressure: The natural gas network must provide a pressure of between 0.5 and 3 bars. If the pressure is lower or higher, you will need to use a regulation system or a booster to adapt it.
- Gas consumption: For a Ripack® 3000 gun, consumption will be around 11 kg/h at 3 bar, compared with 5.2 kg/h with a propane cylinder. Adapting to natural gas therefore means higher consumption and a reduction in heating power.
Adaptation kits and gun compatibility
We offer several options for using natural gas with our Ripack® shrink guns:
- The Ripack® 3000 is available in a version already adapted for natural gas or can be modified with an adaptation kit.
- The Ripack® 2000 and 2200 (currently no longer available for sale) can also be fitted with a specific adaptation kit.
- Ripack® 2100 and 2500 can be purchased as an adapted version or modified at the factory. If you plan to use natural gas, we recommend that you consult your gas supplier and contact your dealer to ensure that your gun is correctly adapted to your needs.
Gas phase propane and bio-propane are the only gases recommended for optimal and safe use of Ripack® shrink guns. Butane should be avoided, while natural gas requires specific adaptation and reduced power.
If you have any questions about the choice of gas or possible adaptations, consult our website or contact your Ripack® dealer.