Stretch Film

Stretch film is a highly stretchable plastic film made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) that is wrapped around items to secure them, especially on a pallet.

Material & Production:

• The raw material is heated to a molten state and then extruded through a flat die onto a chill roll, where it is quenched and re-solidified.
• Some stretch films are co-extruded, meaning multiple layers of film are produced simultaneously, providing enhanced strength and stretching capabilities.

Applications:

• Palletizing Goods: For stabilizing products on pallets during transportation or storage.
• Bundling: Useful for bundling multiple items together.
• Protection: Guards against dust, moisture, and UV rays in some cases.
• Inventory Control: Colored stretch film can be used for inventory categorization.

Shrink Film

Shrink film, or shrink wrap, is a plastic film made of polymer plastic that shrinks tightly over an object once heat is applied.

Material & Production:

• Made from polymer plastic material, including PVC, Polyethylene, and Polypropylene.
• The plastic is extruded, then it's mechanically stretched or oriented in both machine direction and transverse direction. This "biaxial orientation" allows the film to shrink back to its original size when heated.

Applications:

• Packaging Individual Products: Used in retail for individual items like DVDs, software boxes, and perishable food items.
• Tamper Evidence: Often used as a security measure, as it provides evidence if tampered with.
• Protecting from External Elements: It protects goods from dust, moisture, and external damage.
• Bundling Products: For multi-packs or promotional sets.

Cling Film

Cling film, also known as plastic wrap, is a thin plastic film typically used for sealing food items in containers to keep them fresh.

Material & Production:

• Usually made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE).
• Produced by melting the polymer, followed by extrusion through a slot die, then quickly cooling on a chill roll. The resulting film is then wound onto rolls.
• Plasticizers are often added to increase flexibility, which gives cling film its characteristic "clingy" nature.

Applications:

• Food Preservation: It's mainly used in kitchens to wrap food items to keep them fresh by protecting them from air, moisture, and contaminants.
• Temporary Seal: It can be used to cover open containers or dishes temporarily.
• Microwave Use: Certain cling films are microwave-safe and can be used to cover food when reheating.
• Wrapping Wet Items: Temporarily wrap items that are damp or contain moisture.