Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyolefin (POF), and polyethylene (PE) (also known as polythene) shrink films are durable, strong, and reliable materials used both for packaging products themselves, and also for protecting and securing palletised goods during transit. Shrink films are a popular choice because they are low cost, easy to use, and provide excellent protection in transit, and for goods being displayed on shelves for consumers.
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Each material possesses different qualities and so choosing the correct type of film is important to ensure that your goods arrive in the best possible condition. But how do you know which is the right film for your needs?
In this article we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of polyolefin, PVC and polythene shrink wraps, so that you can choose the most appropriate for your needs. (If you’re new to the industry and want to learn more about shrink films in general, check out our “Complete Guide to Shrink Wrap” article.)
Polythene shrink film is made of a plastic that shrinks when it is heated, allowing it to conform around the product that needs wrapping. It is a common choice of packaging for the distribution of beverage bottles, hand soap and cans due to its durability to wrap around multiple products. Polythene shrink film (PE) can come in the forms of Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE), Medium Density Polyethylene (MDPE), and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE).
The main differences consist of the molecular structure, their properties and purpose:
LDPE is the most common form of plastic film and is the least dense of the four types in terms of structure density. It is flexible, transparent, and very resistant. This material is often used for plastic, frozen and waste bags, meat and food products for the consumer to use in their home. Typically, it has a density of 0.917g/cm3 to 0.93g/cm3 and is normally around 0.4 mil to 40 mil thick.
LLDPE is more of a linear polymer structure. Its malleable strength provides a good cover to prevent any tearing and puncturing. It can be used for a range of versatile products including heavy duty bags, toys, and cable covers. LLDPE typically has a density of 0.965g/cm3 or more, and around 0.4 mil to 40 mil in thickness.
MDPE is the least common. Pond liners for example can be made using MDPE or blended with LLDPE or LDPE to achieve a balance of strength and flexibility.
HDPE is both a lightweight yet strong and tougher material. Similarly to LDPE and LLDPE, it holds good impact resistance. HDPE is typically used for both construction materials such as pipes, and consumer products including shampoo bottles and milk cartons. Typically has a density of between 0.93g/cm3 to 0.97g/cm3 and a thickness which ranges from 12 mil to 100 mil thick.
For a more indepth anaylsis read our article on LDPE vs LLDPE vs HDPE.
When searching for the correct wrapping material for your items, it is important to understand PE’s advantages and disadvantages.
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There is another type of polyethylene shrink film, known as Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET). It is an excellent versatile thermoplastic polymer, often used to create plastic bottles and containers, electronic appliances, and consumer foods such as tupperware. It is UV resistant and can hold a high melting point, for the products that require sterile conditions.
As it’s a high performing wrapping film, it is more expensive than PVC and PE. PET has a transparent material, yet sometimes it can be a milky-white colour; it holds tensile strength whilst also being lightweight.
Made of thermoplastic polyolefins, polyolefin shrink film (POF) is a cost-effective, multipurpose wrap. Its typical use is for food-related products, due to the glossy material transparency. It helps with the appearance of the wrapped goods, while also locking in the moisture of items that may be protected, such as tomatoes, cakes, and meats; making it beneficial for the consumer to see what they are buying when shopping at a supermarket.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is produced as a thinner plastic, making it a popular choice for the wrapping of DVD’s and CD Jewel Cases for consumer purposes. When heated, the film is applied around the object and then heated. The film shrinks tightly to the item, preventing the action of tampering with the product.
Polyflex is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of polythene packaging products. We provide a fantastic range of strong and durable shrink film materials to match our customers’ requirements, so that they have the utmost protection when transporting and selling their products.
PE shrink film is specifically designed to snugly conform around products when exposed to heat. This results in a sturdy and reliable shrink film packaging that remains stable during transport. This shrink film packaging is essential for various industries, from food packaging to industrial products. Thanks to its protective and stabilizing functions, PE shrink film has countless applications across different sectors.
Polyethylene is one of the most widely used plastics in the world, and for good reason. The advantages of PE shrink film go beyond merely protecting products.
PE shrink film is tear-resistant, making it an ideal choice for heavy and bulky loads. It is lightweight, flexible, and thus simultaneously very strong.
As packaging film, shrink film protects products from dust, dirt, moisture, and extreme weather conditions. This is essential for transport in variable conditions.
Sustainability plays an increasingly important role in the packaging world. One of the biggest advantages of PE film is that the material is 100% recyclable. By using recycled films, the environmental impact is reduced. PE shrink film offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional packaging due to its recyclable nature and efficient use of material. This makes PE shrink film an environmentally conscious choice for companies that value sustainable production and packaging.
Companies can print their logos and product information on PE shrink film, which contributes to branding and product presentation.
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