STRETCH FILM
Stretch film is a type of plastic film with elastic properties, widely used for packaging and protecting products in various industries. Known as stretch wrapping film, it is typically made from specific materials such as polyethylene. Due to its unique features, stretch film has a wide range of applications in transportation, warehousing, and packaging.
The primary raw material for stretch film production is linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). This material is the best choice for manufacturing stretch film due to its flexibility and high resistance to tearing and puncturing. In addition to polyethylene, additives such as anti-static agents, UV stabilizers, and pigments are sometimes used to produce colored stretch film.
ADVANTAGES OF RAW MATERIAL TYPES
Among the most widely used packaging films are PE Stretch Film (Polyethylene Stretch Film) and PVC Stretch Film (Polyvinyl Chloride Stretch Film).
Although their main purpose—product protection—is similar, there are significant differences between them in terms of raw materials, production methods, physical properties, applications, and advantages.
PE Stretch Film
• Made primarily from Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) or a blend of LLDPE and LDPE.
• Offers a very flexible and elastic molecular structure, ideal for wrapping heavy products and pallets.
PVC Stretch Film
• Made from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) combined with plasticizers to increase flexibility.
• Commonly used for food packaging and wrapping lightweight items.
PE Stretch Film Production
• Typically manufactured using Cast or Blown extrusion processes.
• Cast extrusion produces films with better thickness uniformity and higher clarity.
PVC Stretch Film Production
• Mainly produced through Casting, resulting in thinner and more flexible films.
• Requires the addition of plasticizers during manufacturing to improve stretchability.
TYPES OF STRETCH FILMS
1. Manual Stretch Film
This type of stretch film is designed for manual product wrapping, primarily used in small businesses and for lightweight packaging.
2. Machine Stretch Film
This type is applied using specialized wrapping machines and is suitable for large-scale industries and high-volume packaging.
APPLICATIONS OF STRETCH FILMS
The applications of stretch film are extensive, making it an essential packaging and protective tool in many industries.
1. Product Protection
Stretch film acts as a protective layer, shielding products from dust, moisture, and physical damage.
2. Food Packaging
Food-grade stretch film helps maintain the freshness of food items and prevents contamination.
3. Pallet Wrapping
In warehouses and logistics, pallet stretch film helps stabilize products on pallets.
4. Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Industries
In the pharmaceutical industry and for medical equipment, industrial stretch film is used for safe packaging of products.