What Is The Benefit Of Shrink Wrap In Industrial Containment?

When it comes to the safekeeping, transport, and protection of objects in the context of industrial confinement, shrink wrap is a potent solution that offers a number of benefits.

The plastic sheet can be tightly wrapped around an item of any size or shape using this versatile method. Industries that frequently work with bulky apparatus and equipment may find industrial shrink wrap to be a very beneficial containment solution. In this piece, we'll discuss why it's crucial to use shrink wrap in industrial confinement to protect valuable goods.

Shrink wrap's capacity to operate as a barrier against the weather is one of its most valuable properties for industrial confinement.

Heat-shrinked plastic film creates a hermetic seal, preventing moisture and dust from getting into the product. In industries where tools, materials, or equipment are fragile or easily damaged, more caution is required. Protecting valuables from the elements with shrink wrap extends the amount of time they can go without being repaired or replaced.

The size and form of packages can be modified with ease using shrink wrap. Because the film contracts when heated, it can be shaped to fit the profile of any object, no matter how odd or large.

Since shrink wrap may be used for a wide variety of purposes, it is an excellent option for businesses that deal with intricate machinery, tools, or building supplies. Being able to store goods of varied sizes in the same container maximises both its storage capacity and its portability.

Using shrink wrap for industrial containment also improves safety by discouraging tampering. Heat-shrinking creates such a reliable seal that any attempt to breach it is immediately detected.

This is of the utmost significance in settings where safeguarding priceless or delicate items from tampering is a top priority. The obvious tampering signs discourage unauthorised entry, vandalism, and theft from the container's contents.

The Different Types Of Shrink Film

The term "shrink film" refers to a specific type of plastic that, when heated, contracts or "shrinks" around an item, so creating a tighter seal. In order to shrink-wrap something, you'll need a heat sealer (to close any gaps in the film) and a heat source (to condense the film around your item). I-bar sealers, L-bar sealers, and impulse sealers are the most popular forms of heat sealers, and automatic heat tunnels and hand-held heat guns are the most popular types of heat sources. 

A shrink wrap machine that also cuts, seals, and reduces the size of your packages is another option. Shrink film comes in a variety of materials, and you can choose from PVC, POF, and PE. Read on to learn about the advantages of different types of shrink wrap:

PVC Shrink Film

Historically, polyvinyl chloride shrink wrap (or PVC shrink wrap) has dominated the global shrink film market because to its low cost and high flexibility. DVD and CD packaging, game disc and retail packaging, software packaging, packaging boxes, and other non-food goods are some of the most popular uses for PVC shrink wrap today.

Although PVC shrink wrap has a stronger tear resistance, it is not advised for usage in high or low-temperature conditions due to its susceptibility to becoming brittle after shrinking.

Polyolefin (POF) Shrink Film

Over the past few years, polyolefin (POF) shrink wrap has replaced polythene (PE) as the industry standard. POF is prefered because it is of superior quality and more adaptable than PVC. Polyolefin shrink wrap is also suitable for use with food and has FDA approval.

The 100% recyclable materials used to create this clear, puncture- and heat-resistant shrink wrap make it ideal for packaging a variety of things together.

Polyethylene (PE) Shrink Film

PE shrink wrap, often known as polythene, is a more robust and long-lasting material that is frequently employed in industrial settings. 

The maximum gauge thickness for PVC and polyolefin shrink wraps is 100, however, polythene wrap can be as thick as 1200 gauge. 

Wrapping beer multipacks, protecting yachts during storage, and covering pallets are just a few of the most typical applications for PE shrink wrap.

Styles Of Shrink Film

Now you know that there are several types of shrink wrap, each with its own set of advantages. In addition to the aforementioned varieties, the following types of shrink film are also available:

Tube-Style Shrink Film

Shrink tubing is a special kind of shrink film that already has both of its open ends shut.

Customers can simply insert their goods into the tube, and the resulting shrink bags can be cut to any desired length. If you want to show off your product in all its glory, choose shrink tubing with a high-gloss, crystal-clear coating. Because it may be utilised with either hand-held or automated shrinking devices, shrink tubing is an invaluable asset to any enterprise.

Rolls of Shrink Film

To create centrefold shrink wrap rolls, the material is folded in half along its length before being rolled up.

Since these can be sealed completely around (usually using an L-bar sealer), they find their most common application in retail packaging.

These are useful for larger items and can be operated manually or with automated machinery.

Advantages Of Shrink Wrapping

Shrink wrap is a plastic film that can be used to seal packages and keep out dust and the elements. Wrap it around a single item or a collection of them, heat it up, and the film will shrink to a perfect fit and seal itself. Shrink wrap can be used to preserve everything from loose parts to entire dry-docked boats.

There is a common misunderstanding that leads people to mistake shrink wrap for stretch wrap. Pallets are often wrapped in stretch wrap before being shipped because of the elastic film's ability to conform snugly around a load. When heated, shrink wrap contracts to a tight, airtight seal. It's commonly used to sell things individually or in groups.

Several methods exist for using shrink wrap:

• You can use a shrink wrap bag to store smaller items.
• Shrink wrap tubing comes in a roll, so it's easy to use for wrapping goods of varying sizes. 
• Bands made from shrink film can be used to keep caps and lids in place.
• Shrink wrap rolls are useful for securing and protecting larger items.
• There are many advantages to using shrink wrap.

Protection

Shrink wrap, when heated, forms an airtight seal. This plastic seal then completely guards the contents of the shrink wrap. After being sealed, goods are protected from environmental hazards like dust, filth, and moisture. To shield your products from the sun's rays, several varieties of shrink wrap are UV-resistant.

Durability

PVC, polyolefin, and polythene are the three most common materials used to create shrink wrap due of their longevity. When it comes to shipping CDs, software, and other office supplies, PVC is the go-to material for wrapping and packing.

Polyolefin is versatile enough to be utilised for food packaging as well as high-end retail packaging. For industrial uses, polythene films can be made quite thick and robust. 

Mils or gauges (ga) are used to quantify the thickness of shrink wrap. The gauge can be converted from mils by multiplying by 100. One mil is equal to one hundred thousandth of an inch, or 100 gauge. Stronger wrapping requires greater thickness, which increases as the number increases. 

Tamper-proofing

Once applied, shrink wrap acts as a seal and retains its original shape, making any attempts at tampering readily apparent. This is why many companies in the food and pharmaceutical industries now use shrink wrap.

Certain varieties of shrink wraps used in financial institutions and government offices transform colour when stretched.

Possibilities for Branding

Colours, phrases, photos, and logos can all be used in shrink wrap designs to help market your goods. Every step of the way, from the factory to the consumer, your product is emblazoned with your logo. Brand recognition and client exposure are both boosted by this promotional method.

Preservation

Shrink wrap is widely used to preserve food before transporting it or extending its shelf life. Companies that work with food frequently use polyolefin shrink wrap because it is safe for human consumption.

Convenience

Shrink wrap is one of the few types of packaging that may be used for any job, no matter how big or small. In order to protect them from moisture, small electrical cables are typically shrink-wrapped. You can shrink-wrap anything from a bundle of game pieces to a bag of candy to a box of hardware. On the other hand, you can buy shrink-wrap kits to protect your boat or glasshouse from the elements.

Shrink-wrapping cargo for transfer on trucks and trains simplifies handling and security. To avoid chemical spills or exposure to hazardous compounds, entire buildings have been shrink-wrapped.

When Do I Use Shrink Film, And When Do I Use Stretch Wrap?

The word "shrink wrap" can be used to describe a wide variety of materials. Shrink wrap is a common name for the stretch material used to encase entire pallets of goods. Different from regular shrink wrap, heat shrink wrap contracts in size when heated, making it ideal for protecting commercial, retail, and even personal items. Each may be crucial in avoiding costly losses due to product mishandling.

Toys and CDs are just two examples of single items that can benefit from being packaged in shrink wrap. It's also a useful tool for creating bundles of related goods. It's a common way to transport bottles of soda and water, among other packaged goods. Stretch wrap is commonly used to secure packages and goods on a pallet prior to shipping. It also serves as a handy way to keep other items together during transit or storage. A wide selection of speciality films are available for use as stretch wrap. UV stretch wrap, ventilated pallet wrap, anti-static stretch film, coloured stretch film, pre-stretched stretch film, and so on are only a few examples. Is it possible to recycle stretch and shrink wrap? It is possible to recycle both stretch film and shrink wrap. Make sure soft plastics are accepted at your neighbourhood recycling centre.

Conclusion

Shrink wrap is a versatile way to keep things in one place in an industrial setting. It can be used to store, move, and protect important items. Its ability to act as a barrier against the weather, stopping moisture and dust from getting into the product, is especially helpful in industries where tools, materials, or equipment are fragile or easily broken. Shrink wrap is easy to change in size and shape, which makes it a great choice for businesses that sell complicated tools, machines, or building materials.

There are many types of shrink film, like PVC, POF, and PE. PVC shrink wrap is popular because it is cheap and easy to work with. It is used to package things like DVDs and CDs, and game discs and store items, software, and boxes. POF is prefered because it is of better quality, can be changed, and is approved by the FDA. Polythene, which is another name for PE shrink wrap, is a more durable and long-lasting material that is often used in commercial settings.

There are also rolls of shrink film that can be sealed all the way around with an L-bar sealer and tubes of shrink film that can be used with hand-held or automatic shrinking machines. These kinds of shrink wrap are great for packaging store items and can be done by hand or by machines. Overall, shrink wrap is a useful and cost-effective way to keep things in one place in a commercial setting.

Shrink wrap is a thin plastic film that is used to seal packages and keep dust and other things out. It is often used to store everything from loose parts to whole boats that have been taken out of the water. Stretch wrap, which is used to secure packages and items on pallets before shipping, often needs clarification with shrink wrap. When heated, shrink wrap closes to make a tight, airtight seal. This makes it useful in many situations.

There are many benefits to using shrink wrap, such as security, durability, preventing tampering, branding, preserving, making things easier, and keeping food fresh. Most shrink wrap is made of PVC, polyolefin, or polythene. PVC is the best material for shipping CDs, software, and office tools. Polyolefin is versatile and can be used for food packing and high-end retail packaging, while polythene films can be made thick and strong for industrial use.

Shrink wrap can be used for many things, like protecting electrical cables, securing boats or glasshouses, and avoiding chemical spills or exposure to dangerous compounds. Speciality films are available for use, such as UV stretch wrap, open pallet wrap, anti-static stretch film, coloured stretch film, and pre-stretched stretch film. Stretch film and shrink wrap can both be recovered as long as local recycling centres take soft plastics.

Content Summary

• Shrink wrap serves as an effective solution for the safekeeping and transport of industrial goods.
• The material can be wrapped tightly around objects of varying shapes and sizes.
• Shrink wrap is particularly beneficial for industries dealing with bulky equipment and apparatus.
• One key feature of shrink wrap is its ability to act as a barrier against weather elements.
• The heat-shrunk plastic film creates a hermetic seal, making it resistant to moisture and dust.
• It is an excellent choice for protecting fragile or easily damaged industrial tools and materials.
• Using shrink wrap can extend the lifespan of valuable goods by protecting them from external elements.
• Shrink wrap is versatile, allowing for easy modification of package size and shape.
• The film contracts when heated, adapting to the profile of any object.
• It is useful for businesses dealing with complex machinery and construction supplies.
• Shrink wrap enhances storage capacity and portability by accommodating varied sizes of goods in the same container.
• The material aids in security by discouraging tampering.
• Heat-shrinking offers a reliable seal that instantly reveals any breach attempts.
• Shrink wrap is crucial in settings where protecting sensitive items from tampering is paramount.
• Its use acts as a deterrent against unauthorised entry, vandalism, and theft from containers.
• There are multiple types of shrink films, including PVC, POF, and PE, each with unique advantages.
• PVC shrink film is widely used due to its low cost and high flexibility.
• However, PVC is not recommended for high or low-temperature conditions as it can become brittle.
• Polyolefin (POF) shrink film has become the industry standard, replacing polythene (PE).
• POF shrink wrap is also FDA-approved for food use.
• Polyethylene (PE) shrink film is robust and long-lasting, often used in industrial settings.
• PE shrink wrap can be as thick as 1200 gauge, while PVC and POF wraps max out at 100 gauge.
• PE shrink wrap is commonly used for wrapping beer multipacks and protecting yachts during storage.
• Shrink tubing is a unique type of shrink film with both ends already sealed.
• Shrink tubing can have a high-gloss, crystal-clear coating, making it ideal for showcasing products.
• Rolls of shrink film are often sealed completely around, typically using an L-bar sealer.
• Shrink wrap offers dust and element protection.
• Different types of shrink wraps are UV-resistant.
• The three primary materials used for shrink wrap are PVC, polyolefin, and polythene.
• The thickness of shrink wrap is measured in mils or gauge.
• Shrink wrap acts as a seal, making any tampering attempts immediately obvious.
• Some varieties of shrink wraps change colour when stretched, providing an additional security measure.
• Branding possibilities are numerous with shrink wrap, including colours, phrases, and logos.
• Shrink wrap aids in food preservation and extending shelf life.
• The versatility of shrink wrap makes it suitable for both small and large jobs.
• Shrink wrap is also used for containing hazardous chemicals to prevent spills.
• Shrink wrap and stretch wrap serve different purposes; the former shrinks when heated, the latter is more elastic.
• Shrink wrap is commonly used for packaging single items like toys and CDs.
• It's also ideal for creating bundles of related items, such as soda bottles.
• Stretch wrap is often used for securing packages on pallets before shipping.
• Speciality films are available for stretch wrap, including UV stretch wrap and anti-static stretch film.
• Both stretch and shrink wraps are recyclable.
• PE shrink wrap is commonly used to cover pallets.
• Shrink wrap rolls are helpful for securing larger items like machinery.
• Shrink film bands can be used to keep caps and lids securely in place.
• Shrink wrap bags are convenient for storing smaller items.
• POF shrink wrap is 100% recyclable and environmentally friendly.
• Shrink wrap contributes to more efficient handling and security during cargo transport.
• Entire buildings have been shrink-wrapped to contain hazardous compounds or prevent chemical spills.
• Shrink wrap can be applied using various methods, including I-bar sealers, L-bar sealers, and impulse sealers.