EZ-SRB Convective Heat Shrink Sleeve Tunnels

EZ‑SRB shrink tunnels are the convective heat models in Axon’s complete line of shrink sleeve tunnels. Available in 24" and 36" versions, each EZ‑SRB module is a separate shrink zone, and two or more modules can be combined to match the required application, speed, and shrink performance.

Designed for facilities without access to plant steam systems, EZ‑SRB tunnels use a digitally controlled, recirculating forced‑air heating process that provides consistent, evenly distributed heat for high‑quality shrink results. This makes the EZ‑SRB an ideal forced‑air alternative to steam tunnels—especially for applications requiring precise control, lower operating costs, or simpler utility requirements.

A single EZ‑SRB module can accommodate a wide range of shrink sleeve, tamper‑evident, multipack, and specialty packaging formats. For challenging container geometries, high shrink ratios, or high‑speed production lines, dual‑tunnel or multi‑zone configurations deliver the required performance.

Like every Axon shrink tunnel, EZ‑SRB tunnels offer operators the flexibility to perform five important shrink applications, making them one of the best values in the industry.

Applications

Tamper‑evident bands
Partial body sleeves
Full body sleeves
Full‑body over‑the‑cap sleeves
Multipacks

EZ-SRB Convective Heat Shrink Tunnel Applications

Key Features & Benefits

Proven durability & performance Convection heat tunnels engineered for demanding packaging environments.
Size range flexibility Supports containers or multipacks up to 6" in diameter and up to 10" tall. Larger sizes compatible with custom configurations.
Tool‑less container changeovers Designed for fast adjustments that minimize downtime.
Stainless steel construction Durable, corrosion‑resistant, and easy to clean.
Digitally controlled temperature system Provides precise and consistent heat across all zones.
Recirculating forced‑air heating Ensures even heat distribution for uniform shrink results.
Double‑wall tunnel shell Keeps exterior surfaces cooler for operator safety.
Cantilevered floor‑mount configuration Simplifies installation and conveyor integration.

Options

Air Flow Baffles - Interchangeable baffles allow tunnels to effectively handle multiple container sizes and shapes.
Automatic Tunnel Lifter - Automatically raises tunnel during conveyor stoppages to prevent product damage
Casters with Leveling Pads - Improve flexibility by making it easy to add, remove, or reposition tunnels on a production line.
Spare Parts Kit - Recommended start‑up inventory for continuous operation.

EZ SRB Convection Heat Shrink Tunnels Spec Sheet (PDF)

What type of heat does the EZ-SRB use?

The EZ-SRB uses a digitally controlled, recirculating forced-air (convection) heating system. Unlike steam tunnels, it does not require plant steam or water connections, making it ideal for facilities that prefer simplified utilities.

When should I choose convection instead of steam?

Convection tunnels like the EZ-SRB are ideal when:

Plant steam is not available
Utilities must remain simple
Lower upfront infrastructure investment is preferred
Shrink applications are moderate rather than highly contoured
Tamper-evident bands or partial sleeves are primary applications

Steam tunnels generally provide superior shrink performance on highly contoured or high-shrink materials, while convection offers flexibility and ease of installation.

Does the EZ-SRB require plant steam?

No. The EZ-SRB operates entirely on electricity and does not require a boiler, steam generator, condensate return system, or vapor management. This simplifies installation and reduces infrastructure complexity.

What shrink applications is the EZ-SRB best suited for?

The EZ-SRB is well suited for:

Tamper-evident bands
Partial-body sleeves
Full-body sleeves on moderate geometries
Multipacks
Specialty packaging formats

For highly contoured containers or aggressive shrink ratios, a steam tunnel may be more appropriate.

What production speeds can the EZ-SRB support?

Production speeds depend on container size, sleeve material, and configuration. Multiple modules can be combined to create multi-zone systems capable of supporting higher-speed applications and more complex shrink requirements.

How does multi-zone capability work?

Each EZ-SRB module functions as a separate shrink zone. Modules can be combined in series to increase dwell time and improve shrink uniformity, allowing the system to match application requirements without moving to steam technology.

Is the EZ-SRB suitable for pharmaceutical and personal care applications?

Yes. The electrically heated design eliminates steam vapor, making it attractive for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and personal care facilities where moisture control is important.

How does the EZ-SRB compare to infrared heat tunnels?

Infrared tunnels use radiant heat directed at specific sleeve areas and are typically best for simple tamper bands or straightforward full-body sleeves.

The EZ-SRB’s recirculating forced air provides more uniform heat distribution and greater flexibility across a wider range of sleeve applications.

Does the EZ-SRB support multipack applications?

Yes. The tunnel can accommodate containers or multipacks up to specified diameter limits. For larger multipacks or wide-format applications, steam tunnels may provide stronger performance.

What utilities are required for installation?

The EZ-SRB requires:

Electrical connection
Conveyor integration

It does not require:

Steam lines
Water supply
Condensate return
Boiler capacity

This makes it one of the simplest heat tunnels to install in facilities without existing steam infrastructure.

Can the EZ-SRB be integrated with Axon shrink sleeve applicators?

Yes. The EZ-SRB integrates with Axon shrink sleeve and tamper band applicators, including low-, mid-, and high-speed systems, providing a complete shrink solution tailored to application requirements.

What industries commonly use convection heat shrink tunnels?

Common industries include:

Pharmaceutical
Nutraceutical
Personal care
Specialty food
Contract packaging
Emerging beverage brands

Facilities that prefer simplified utilities often select convection over steam.

Do all sleeve applications require a heat tunnel?

No.

• Shrink sleeves and tamper evident bands require a heat tunnel (steam, convection, or infrared).
• Stretch sleeves do not require heat.

Heat tunnel selection depends on sleeve material, shrink percentage, container geometry, and line speed.

Technology	Infrared	Convection	Entry Steam	Mid Steam	External Steam
Product	ThermoRay®	EZ-SRB	ThermoFlow	HE-500	ThermoPoint®
Heat Type	Radiant infrared heat	Electrically heated forced air	Self-contained steam generator	Self-contained steam generator (enhanced control)	Plant-supplied steam
Steam Required	No	No	No external steam required	No external steam required	Yes (plant steam + condensate return)
Best For	Tamper bands, simple sleeves	Tamper bands, moderate shrink	Entry-level steam applications	Higher precision steam shrink	Complex shapes, high-shrink materials, high-speed lines
Shrink Precision	Best for simple geometries	Moderate to high	High	Very high	Excellent for complex contours
Infrastructure Needs	Electrical only	Electrical only	Electrical + water	Electrical + water	Plant steam supply + condensate management
Vapor Management	None	None	Minimal	Reduced vapor release	Depends on plant steam system
Multi-Zone Control	Limited	Modular multi-zone capability	Limited	Yes	Yes
Ideal Industries	Entry beverage, small CPG	Pharma, personal care, co-packers	Emerging steam users	Beverage, food, nutraceutical	Beverage, dairy, large CPG, contract packers

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