Polyolefin shrink film

Types of polyolefin shrink film

There are several types of polyolefin shrink film that serve different purposes regarding product packaging. Some shrink wraps include:

• Centerfold shrink film

  It comes with a fold down the center so that the film can be wrapped around a product and still be sealed in a single pass. Most are used in high-speed shrink equipment where quick packaging is needed.

• Preformed bags

  It is a type of shrink bag that is manufactured to specific sizes. They are used when consistency is vital since they offer a very controlled and standardized packaging method. It doesn’t require much equipment since it only needs a heat source to activate the shrink.

• Rollstock

  Refers to a flat sheet of polyolefin that is pulled from a roll through the packaging machine. This allows for more customized packaging solutions since the film can be tailored to fit the precise dimensions of the product. It’s commonly used in vertical form-fill-seal (vffs) machines in bulk packaging applications.

• Bonnet shrink film

  This is designed specifically for packaging bottles and other cylindrical products. It fits tightly around such products and provides a secure and tamper-evident seal.

• Gusseted bags

  It has an expandable bottom that allows the bags to stand up on store shelves. It provides a larger packaging area and fits snugly around bulky products.

• Automatic sleeve shrink film

  This includes thick films used for high-speed applications in automatic sleeve processors. It provides strong and durable seals and is appropriate for large-scale production environments.

Designs of polyolefin shrink film

Some common designs of polyolefin shrink wraps include:

• Clear polyolefin shrink film

  It is a straightforward design that offers transparency for product visibility. This is commonly used in retail settings to showcase products while providing an effective barrier against moisture and dust.

• Printed polyolefin shrink film

  This allows for branding and marketing since it comes with various colors, patterns, or logos. Such films are used to enhance the store shelves' appeal or communicate specific brand messages.

• Perforated polyolefin shrink film

  This features tiny holes that prevent condensation formation when used on products that emit heat after being wrapped. Such films are commonly used for fresh food packaging.

• Colored polyolefin shrink film

  Often available in different colors to provide varying levels of opacity. This can help add protection against UV light or give a more aesthetic appeal to the package.

• Metallized polyolefin shrink film

  This is manufactured with a metallic layer giving additional protection against moisture and light as well as this attractive appearance. They are often used in such products as cosmetics and electronics requiring extra defense.

• Non-PVC polyolefin shrink film

  The film offers a more environmental-friendly option and is suitable for food packaging. It maintains the same properties as standard polyolefin without using polyvinyl chloride.

How to choose polyolefin shrink film

The type of shrink wrap to buy for resell can be based on the following factors:

• Product compatibility

  Buyers should first consider the products that the shrink film will be compatible with. If they deal with food, they should go for non-PVC polyolefin shrink film. Others suited for other uses can be wrapped with PVC for cost-effectiveness.

• Climate

  Buyers from regions that experience high temperatures and humidity values should consider obtaining polyolefin films with a low shrink temperature. Those from cooler regions can consider getting the ones with a higher shrink temperature.

• Appearance

  Filmed to be used on products for sale should have a glossy appearance for better-enhanced product display. Also, users seeking a more affordable appearance can also obtain a matte finish film.

• Strength

  To ensure versatile usage, buyers should get PO shrink films that offer a premium strength-to-seal ratio. This is essential, especially if packing such fragile products as glass containers.

• Thickness

  Users who intend to wrap lighter products should opt for thinner films with lower microns. On the other hand, thicker films are better for heavier items as they are stronger and less prone to punctures.

How to use and product applications of polyolefin shrink film

Some common uses include:

• Packaging consumer products

  In this industry, polyolefin shrink film is mostly used to package products such as bottled water, and electronics. Others include food items like fresh meat and produce, since it offers an effective barrier against moisture and extends shelf life. This film also enhances product tamper-resistance and provides an attractive quick look for consumers.

• Bundling items for shipment

  Polyolefin can also be used to bundle or even jack pack items like books, magazines, and hardware permanently together for easier handling and shipping. It helps keep various products organized and protected from dust and moisture during transportation.

• Protecting industrial goods

  In the industrial space, the film can be used to guard materials like metal sheets and machinery parts from corrosion as well as other damage caused by environmental elements during storage and shipping. It offers strong wraps for items needing heavy-duty protection.

• Wrapping palletized loads

  Polyolefin shrink film is stretchable and strong properties make it ideal for stabilizing and securing pallet loads during shipment. It conforms to the load’s shape and prevents shifting while offering a visual barrier against moisture and dust to cover the products.

• Providing promotional packaging

  This film’s versatility enables it to be used in special packaging such as holiday gift packs, multipacks, or versioned releases in sales and marketing campaigns. Its shrink characteristics provide a clean, crisp appearance that is considered appealing in promotional settings.

Benefits and disadvantages of polyolefin shrink film

Benefits

• Versatility

  PO shrink film can be used for packing food and non-food products efficiently. It is ideal for fresh and frozen food, electronics, and other products, thanks to its ability to maintain the original look upon exposure to heat. Its versatility lies in the fact that it can accommodate different shapes and sizes due to its unique cling properties.

• Durability

  Once applied, this extension film is generally strong and tear-resistant, not easily punctured, and offering superior protection during transport. Its strength ensures products remain tightly wrapped with enhanced protection against abrasion and outdoor elements.

• Environmentally friendly

  Polyolefin films are mainly manufactured with recyclable materials and they are considered safer for food products since they are PVC-free. This makes them the preferred option for environmentally-conscious manufacturers as well as consumers.

• Tamper evidence

  Once applied to a product, it provides a seal that indicates whether a product has been opened. This helps consumers identify tampered products and boosts the manufacturer’s trust.

• Cost-effectiveness

  Though premium quality, polyolefin shrink films are comparatively cheaper, considering the quality they offer as well as the films' recyclable properties. Thus they become an effective packaging solution for many manufacturers.

Disadvantages

• Heat sensitivity

  While polyolefin shrink film can withstand higher temperatures than PVC, it is still susceptible to heat, which can cause unwinding or loss of shape. This limits its usage in areas with extreme temperatures.

• Stacking limit

  One of the issues with this film is that it does not offer as much stacking load strength as other films. This means that products stacked on each other may sag or lean over time, which can affect their integrity and appearance.

• Lower transparency

  Although clearer than other types of shrink wraps, such as PVC, the glossiness of polyolefin wraps is not as high. This can cause reduced visibility of packaged products, especially in sale displays.

Q&A

Q1. How does polyolefin shrink film compare to other shrink films?

A1. PVC shrink film is normally less expensive than polyolefin. It also offering a tighter shrink than polyolefin. But it is not suitable for food packaging due to chemicals emitted. In the case of biodegradable shrink films, they offer a greener option but at a comparatively higher cost, thus suitable for eco-conscious manufacturers.

Q2. Can polyolefin shrink film be recycled?

A2. Yes, it can be recycled. But users must check local recycling facilities to ensure they accept polyolefin materials since not all of them do. Also, it can be recycled together with other plastics like polyethylene to minimize environmental impact.

Q3. How to store polyolefin shrink film to ensure it stays intact?

A3. The film should be kept in a cool, dry area since exposure to high temperatures can affect its shrinking properties. Also, it shouldn’t be exposed to direct sunlight for long hours as this can cause degradation of the material over time.

Q4. What type of equipment is needed to activate polyolefin shrink film?

A4. Polyolefin films require a source of heat to activate. This can be a handheld heat gun, or a semiautomatic or fully automatic shrink tunnel for more production.

Q5. Is polyolefin shrink film safe for food packaging?

A5. Yes, it is specifically designed for food products packaging. Unlike PVC, it doesn’t emit harmful chemicals that can contaminate food. Also, it is FDA-compliant, making it suitable for enclosing food items.