Chances are, if you click on this article, you are either
Using one of the films mentioned
Scratching your head in deciding which film you should be using
You have come to the right article, and here I will be helping you to differentiate Shrink Film and Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene overwrap film (widely known as BOPP).
Before deciding, you must understand the differences between these films and their impact on your packaging needs.
What is shrink film?
Shrink film (also called shrink wrap) is a flexible packaging film used to package food, books, and other consumer products. Its main component is either polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyolefin (POF). Shrink film is ubiquitous in countless packaging lines around the world.
How does shrink wrapping work?
Products that need to be packaged are placed in a band of shrink film and sealed. From there, a conveyor will transport the product to another machine called a heat tunnel. As the name suggests, the inside of the tunnel is heated.
As the product moves through the heat tunnel, the heat generated by the machine causes the shrink film to shrink evenly around the product. The product then passes through the rest of the packaging line and is packaged for shipment.
What is biaxially oriented polypropylene film (BOPP)?
BOPP is another type of flexible packaging film. Unlike shrink film, BOPP is not heated and shrunk in a heat tunnel but is used as a wrapping film to package your products. A machine will apply the wrapping film over the product or another form of packaging containing the product.
Food packaging is the BOPP most adopted use. However, they are also quickly displacing cellophane in snack foods and cigarette packaging applications due to BOPP&#;s superior capabilities and lower cost.
BOPP films exhibit higher barrier properties to oxygen and water vapour, unlike shrink films which often has tiny holes (also known as a perforation). Compared to polypropylene shrink films, impact and flexural strength are also better with BOPP.
Which film is right for you?
Before you decide which type of flexible packaging film is right for your specific packaging needs, you need to answer some questions. By answering these questions, identifying the right film is a no-brainer.
Are your products extremely heat-sensitive?
&#; If so, BOPP film would be a better choice for you.
Do you want a film that encloses your products evenly and tightly?
&#; If so, shrink film is a better choice for your product packaging.
Do you need increased barrier properties to oxygen and water vapour for your products?
&#; If so, BOPP film is the better choice for you.
Do you want to use a thin, flexible film for packaging your products?
Shrink film will be your choice, as it has very thin film options.Are you looking for a film with higher impact and flexural strength?
&#; If so, BOPP is the better choice for your packaging needs.
Do you need printed film and the printed quality to be at its best?
&#; BOPP will be your choice, as it does not shrink with heat like the shrink film counterpart.
With the answers to the questions above, you should have most, if not all, the information you need to choose the appropriate flexible packaging film for your needs.
I&#;m still unsure which film to use.
If you are still unsure which film to use, or should you switch because the above suggestion contradicts your current practice, it&#;s time to bring in the professional.
With Syspex&#;s 30 years of experience and the various industries we serve, we strive to provide our customers with the best advice and solutions, specifically to their packaging needs.
In the dynamic world of packaging, the choice of material plays a pivotal role in product protection, preservation, and presentation. Among the myriad options available, BOPP, BOPET, and BOPA films stand out for their unique properties and applications. This blog delves into the nuances of these films, guiding you through their characteristics, uses, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Why Film Choice Matters
Selecting the appropriate packaging film is not just a matter of cost or aesthetics; it directly impacts the product&#;s shelf life, quality, and sustainability. Packaging films also have varying degrees of barrier properties, mechanical strength, and environmental impacts, making the choice critical for manufacturers and consumers.
With competitive price and timely delivery, GT New Material sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.
What is BOPP?
Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) film is manufactured by stretching polypropylene film in both machine and transverse directions, which enhances its strength and clarity.
Key Properties
Common Uses
BOPP is widely used in snack packaging, label production, and as a lamination material. Its versatility also extends to stationery, textiles, and consumer goods.
Pros and Cons
While BOPP is cost-effective and offers excellent clarity and durability, it is not the best choice for high-temperature applications and has moderate barrier properties against gases. However, with the development of technological innovation after coating treatment or adding specific additives, the shortcomings in this area are not obvious.
What is BOPET?
Biaxially Oriented Polyethylene Terephthalate (BOPET) film is known for its strength and thermal stability. Derived from PET, it is stretched similarly to BOPP.
Key Properties
Common Uses
BOPET&#;s durability makes it a popular choice in food packaging, particularly for products requiring a longer shelf life. It&#;s also used in industrial applications and as a protective film in electronics.
Pros and Cons
BOPET&#;s superior heat and chemical resistance are more expensive than BOPP.
What is BOPA?
Biaxially Oriented Polyamide, or BOPA, is known for its exceptional barrier properties. It is commonly referred to as Nylon film.
Key Properties
Common Uses
BOPA is the go-to film for perishable goods, vacuum packaging, and medical products, where maintaining a high barrier is crucial.
Pros and Cons
BOPA excels in barrier properties and durability but is more expensive. It&#;s also sensitive to humidity and temperature variations, requiring careful storage and handling.
Property BOPP Film BOPET Film BOPA Film Material Polypropylene (PP) Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Polyamide (Nylon) Moisture Barrier High Moderate High Heat Resistance Low High Moderate Gas Barrier Moderate High Very High Puncture/Abrasion Resistance Moderate High Very High Flexibility Moderate Low High Cost Low Moderate High Primary Uses Packaging (snacks, labels), Lamination Food Packaging, Industrial Applications,
Electrical Insulation
Perishable Food Packaging, Medical Products,Vacuum Packaging
Factors to Consider
Expert Opinions
Packaging experts recommend considering the entire product lifecycle, from manufacturing to disposal, to ensure an environmentally responsible choice that doesn&#;t compromise quality.
Understanding the differences between BOPP, BOPET, and BOPA films is crucial in making an informed decision for your packaging needs. Each film offers unique properties and serves different purposes, making the choice highly dependent on the product&#;s specific requirements and the manufacturer&#;s goals.
By selecting the right film, you can enhance your product&#;s shelf life, appeal, and sustainability, ultimately contributing to greater customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility.