Stretch film is one of the most important breakthroughs for industrial uses. But do you know how stretch film is created?
Knowing more about stretch film can help you select the best type for your purposes or determine the best way to package your product.
What exactly is stretch film?
Stretch film is a very elastic plastic film that is widely used for fastening and enclosing things on pallets or bundling many items together.
It is frequently used in the packing and shipping sectors to provide commodities with stability, protection, and tamper resistance while in transit or storage.
Why choose stretch film?
Stretch film is chosen for a variety of reasons, based on the needs and applications.
Here are some compelling reasons why people like stretch film:
Packaging and Protection:
Stretch film is often used to protect objects during storage, shipping, and handling. It wraps securely around the goods, providing stability and limiting movement or damage.
Versatility:
Stretch film has a wide range of applications in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, and retail. It can be used to wrap objects that are unusual in shape, odd-sized cargoes, and even delicate or fragile products.
Recyclable:
Some stretch films are made from environmentally friendly materials such as biodegradable or recyclable materials. Choosing these environmentally friendly alternatives can assist to lessen environmental effect and line with sustainable packaging practises.
Load Stability:
Stretch film is extremely effective at securing and stabilising cargo on pallets or in containers. It tightly binds the pieces together, preventing them from shifting or tumbling during transit.
How to make stretch film?
Stretch film manufacture is an industrial manufacturing process that necessitates specialised equipment and skills.
The following is a broad summary of the steps involved in the production of stretch film:
1.Material Preparation: The principal material used in the production of stretch films is linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) resin, which is usually in the form of pellets.
2.Extrusion: The molten polymer is then extruded via a circular die, forming a continuous thin layer.
The extruder forces the molten polymer through the die, resulting in a flat web of plastic film.
3.Cooling and Solidification: After extrusion, the film is cooled and solidified by blowing cool air or water onto the film surface.
This technique guarantees that the film preserves its desired form and physical properties.
4.Orientation: Stretch film is commonly manufactured by a process known as “blown film extrusion.” The film is stretched in both the machine direction (MD) and the transverse direction (TD) in this step to improve its strength, elasticity, and stretchability.
The film is oriented by running it through a sequence of spinning nip rollers or by employing specialised stretching equipment.
5.Winding and Cutting: The film is wound onto huge rolls using winding machines after it has been stretched and cooled. Stretch film rolls are then trimmed into shorter widths to meet the final product criteria.
6.Quality Control: Various quality control checks are performed during the production process to ensure the film fulfils the specified criteria, such as thickness, strength, clarity, and tackiness.
Measurement testing, visual inspections, and mechanical property evaluations are examples of these examinations.
Conclusions
It is vital to note that stretch film manufacture is an industrial operation that is normally carried out in specialised manufacturing facilities. It necessitates specialised apparatus, trained operators, and a thorough understanding of polymer extrusion and film manufacturing procedures.
It is not possible to create stretch film at home or without the proper equipment and skills.
