Types of Stretch Films

 

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Products are often damaged during transport and stretch film helps to securely hold loads in place and avoid possible damage. Stretch film rolls are one of the most commonly used packaging materials. They are a simple and effective way to properly package products.

 

 

 

In this blog we will discuss what stretch film packaging is, the types they come in and tips on choosing stretch film.

 

 

 

What is stretch film?

Stretch films or wraps are stretchable plastic films that are used to wrap products to hold them securely in place. They are often used on shipping pallets to lock products and boxes in place during transit. They are a must for e-commerce businesses that regularly ship products. They help to package products correctly and reduce product loss during shipping and handling.

 

 

 

Stretch film looks similar to the cling film many people use in the kitchen. But they are heavy-duty wrapping paper, strong enough to bind products together and hold them in place. Stretch films are available in different grades, widths and colours to suit your different applications.

 

 

Types of stretch films

Stretch films come in different types to meet different packaging needs:

 

 

 

Cast Stretch

Cast Stretch films offer excellent clarity and allow the user to see through the wrap. These films are easier to stretch and very quiet when coming off the roll. They offer double-sided wicking, which helps to wrap products securely. Cast Stretch films are inexpensive, but they have less holding power and tear resistance than blown films.

 

 

 

Blown elasticity

Blown films have the highest tear resistance and are tougher than other types of stretch films. They are therefore ideal for packaging products with sharp edges. However, they are very expensive and have poor film clarity, which means you can't see through them. They are also a little noisy when rolled.

 

 

 

 

Hand-stretched rolls

Stretch wrapping that is applied manually to a product is called hand stretch wrapping. It is also known as manual pallet wrapping. Companies with lower production capacity often use hand-stretch film.

 

 

 

Machine Wrap Film

Machine stretch wrap uses a machine - a winding machine. Machine stretch wrapping allows for faster and more efficient wrapping. It can secure more loads in less time. Its common types are pre-stretch film, cast machine stretch film and blown film machines.

 

 

 

Pre-stretched film

You need to stretch pre-stretch film before it can be used on a product or pallet. It is a multi-layer, thinner and stronger stretch film. It is an environmentally friendly process because less stretch film material is consumed when wrapping goods. Pre-stretched film is strong, stable, consistent and requires minimal effort in its application.

 

 

 

Coloured Stretch

Coloured stretch films are suitable for special needs that cannot be met by general purpose stretch films. They are ideal for international shipments, colour coding and dating stock. Coloured stretch films are puncture resistant.

 

 

 

Tips for choosing stretch film

Look carefully at the type of goods to be wrapped: does it already have a degree of stability or none at all?

 

Does the load have sharp or protruding corners?

 

Are there any special requirements for UV-resistant or frozen products?

 

Which winding machine is used and what is its stretch percentage?

 

What is the output of your production process? If it is very high, then it may be more obvious to choose a thicker stretch film.

 

Request a free audit. We analyse your process and make a complete recommendation.

 

 

 

Whether you need more information, samples, a quote, or advice for a project, we would be delighted to talk to you.