STRETCH FILM
Stretch wrap is a thin, stretchable plastic film (typically made from polyethylene) that is used to lock and secure cased goods onto a pallet. As the stretch film is wrapped around the pallet, tension is applied, enabling the film to extend its length by up to 300%. This tension then creates a constrictive force around the load, allowing it to be held in place.
Types of Stretch Wrap
There are two main types of stretch film: hand stretch film and machine stretch film.
1. Hand Stretch Film
Hand stretch film is specifically designed to be applied manually and is therefore typically utilized in low-volume packaging operations.
2. Machine Stretch Film
Machine stretch film is film that is specifically designed to be applied with a stretch wrap machine and is typically utilized in high-volume packaging operations. Some common types of machines stretch film include:
01.
Blown Stretch Film
It is manufactured using a blown extrusion process. This process involves blowing heated resins into a bubble. The bubble is then transformed into sheets that are rolled and applied to a core tube.
02.
Cast Stretch Film
It is manufactured using the cast extrusion process. This process involves feeding heated resins through a line of cooled rollers which then solidifies the film.
03.
Pre-Stretched Film
The stretchy characteristics of stretch wrap enable oddly-shaped or hard-to-stack loads to be wrapped.
BENEFITS OF STRETCH WRAP
Reduced Shipping Damages – Goods that are being shipped can be subject to an array of events that have the potential of damaging them. Stretch film aims to reduce these hazards due to its ability to hold loads tightly together onto the pallet so that they do not shift as much while in transport.
Protection Against the Elements
Stretch film also works to protect goods from environmental damage such as dirt, dust, and moisture.
Sustainability
Many types of stretch film are recyclable.
Cost-Effective
Compared to other packaging methods like strapping, stretch film can be a cost-effective alternative.
Versatile
Its stretchy characteristics enable oddly-shaped or hard-to-stack loads to be wrapped and stay in place while transport.
