What's the difference between stretch wrap and shrink wrap?

08 Apr.,2024

 

Shrink Wrap

Heat shrink wrap is unique in the way it is applied to products.

Firstly, plastic shrink film is wrapped around a product before any open ends are sealed to create an air-tight barrier.

Heat is then applied to the film - either via a heat gun or heat tunnel - which shrinks in size and forms perfectly and snugly around the exact shape of its contents.

This process is possible because of the plastic polymers present in the film. In its pre-heated state, the film consists of straight polymers, which break down and move freely when heated - allowing the film to reduce in size. When the film then cools and sets into its new shape, its tensile strength increases, providing a tough and durable protective barrier.

1 – 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.

2 – Protection Against the Elements – Stretch film also works to protect goods from environmental damage such as dirt, dust, and moisture.

3 – Sustainability – Many types of stretch film are recyclable.

4Cost-Effective – compared to other packaging methods like strapping, stretch film can be a cost-effective alternative.

5 – Versatile – the stretchy characteristics of stretch wrap enable oddly-shaped or hard-to-stack loads to be wrapped.

What's the difference between stretch wrap and shrink wrap?

Stretch Film vs. Shrink Film: The Difference