Stretch Wrapping vs. Shrink Wrapping - Understanding the Difference
When it comes to protecting products, or holding products
together and intact for transport; stretch and shrink wrapping are often
employed. Although these two types of wrapping have many differences, they are
often confused. We aim to outline the differences
between the two products and under what application they are both utilized.
What is it? Stretch
wrapping is stretchable plastic film that is wrapped around a load of products
allowing it to be stretched; this elasticity holds the load tightly together.
Shrink Wrapping is covered loosely around a product or load, it shrinks tightly when heat is applied.
Shrink Wrapping is covered loosely around a product or load, it shrinks tightly when heat is applied.
What
is it made from? Made
from Polyethylene plastic Resin.
What is it used for? This
type of wrapping is usually employed to hold loads and products together on a
pallet for transportation or storage purposes. Stretch wrap can come in a
variety of specialty films. Some examples are: UV stretch wrap, vented pallet
wrap, anti-static stretch film, colored stretch film, pre-stretched stretch
film, etc. This type of wrapping is
usually employed to protect a single product from dust or weather; or to
tightly combine smaller items together. It can also wrap products together on a
pallet.
What are the advantages?
Protective- This wrapping is secure and protects products
from dust and moisture. It can also
protect from sun with UV film options
Cost Effective- Stretch wrap is less expensive than other
types of pallet wrapping. Additionally the equipment needed for stretch
wrapping is cheaper than other forms of wrapping.
Adaptable- Stretch wrap has a variety of films to suit each
application; and it is even appropriate for different types of surfaces.
Protective – Shrink wrap is great for protecting products
from weather or moisture damage along with dust and dirt.
No surface damage – If shrink wrapping has been properly
applied you should have no issues with chafing or damage during transportation
or whilst being stored.
Breathability- Shrink wrap has the option of being
ventilated; therefore reducing any damage that can occur from moisture.
Manual wrappers include the extended core with a film
extension used as a handle. Mechanical
brakes have a supporting structure with a break resistance system. Pole wrappers involve an extended pole for
easier use.
Stretch
wrap machines are suggested when wrapping more than 15 loads per day.
Stretch wrap machines help to reduce waste and to increase efficiency.
Semi –
automatic machines include turntable wrappers where the load is placed on a
turntable and wrapped by film which moves vertically. Rotary arm wrappers rotate around a still
load to wrap.
Orbital wrappers involve
feeding the load though a rotating ring of film.
Automatic wrappers involve conveyer belts and automatic
machines to cut and seal the stretch wrap.
A heating machine is essential when using any type of shrink
wrap.
Some of the shrink wrap machines available for heating are;
heat guns which release a stream of hot air, shrink tunnels which are mounted
over or around a conveyor system for the product to flow through, along with
ovens.
Heat guns are necessary for more professional looking shrink
wrap jobs as shrink wrap properly shrinks at 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
For more information: Quick Pak Inc – PH: 813 242 6995
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