Stretch film: areas of use, types and selection criteria

Stretch film — also known as stretch film or packaging film — is a thin and flexible material usually made from polyethylene. The material has unique tensile and elastic properties. Its main purpose is to wrap and package goods to protect them from dust, moisture and damage, as well as to strengthen and secure loads on pallets.

When purchase of stretch film is it completely justified? This material is used in various fields and industries due to its versatility and properties. Somehow:

And such a variety of uses for stretch film is more than justified. And all because its main characteristics include:

• extensibility: stretch film can be stretched in all directions, which allows it to tightly fit the packaged product and create a reliable protective coating.
• elasticity: Once stretched, stretch film returns to its original shape, providing a secure wrap and secure load.
• transparency: Most stretch films are clear, allowing you to see the packaged item without having to unpack it.
• protection: stretch film protects goods from dust, dirt, moisture and mechanical damage.
• convenience: This material is easy to process and apply to products without requiring special tools.
• saving: Using stretch film allows you to save on the cost of additional packaging materials.

Stretch film — types

There are several different types of stretch film designed for different purposes and conditions of use. Here are some of the most common types of stretch film:

• Machine Stretch Film: This type of stretch film is designed for use on automatic packaging machines. It often has higher strength and thickness to ensure secure packaging of loads on high-speed production lines.
• Manual Stretch Film: This stretch film is designed for manual packaging of goods. It is easier to wind by hand and often has a lower thickness, but enough stretch to securely secure the load.
• reinforced stretch film: This type of film has increased strength and resistance to punctures and tears. It is often used for packaging goods with sharp corners or heavy weights.
• Pre-Stretched Stretch Film: This is a ready-to-use stretch film that has already been stretched to a certain extent. It can be more economical and reduce film costs.
• Specialized Stretch Films: Some applications require stretch films with specific characteristics, such as antistatic properties to prevent static build-up, UV resistance for long-term outdoor packaging, or biodegradable options to reduce environmental impact.

Each of these types of stretch film is designed for specific needs and conditions of use, allowing you to select the most suitable type of stretch film depending on your specific packaging needs and requirements.

Criteria for choosing stretch film

• Load Weight and Type: Heavy or sharp items may require stronger stretch film.
• The thickness of the film affects its strength. Thin films may be suitable for light loads, while heavy loads require thicker films.
• elasticity and extensibility, which guarantees (or, on the contrary, does not guarantee) reliable fixation of the load and prevention of its displacement.
• special properties: if there are specific requirements, such as antistatic properties, resistance to ultraviolet radiation or biodegradability, it is worth choosing a stretch film with the appropriate characteristics.
• Packing method: by hand or using a packing machine? This point also influences the choice of film.
• conditions of storage and transportation of goods. So, if the cargo will be stored outdoors or exposed to ultraviolet rays, it is necessary to give preference to UV-resistant stretch film.
• Environmental Considerations: Biodegradable or recyclable stretch film options also exist.