10 Things to Consider When Buying printed shrink film

So, you have found yourself in the position of purchasing shrink film for your business. Perhaps you are fresh out of college and are beginning your career in the purchasing department or you are a veteran purchasing manager who has been tasked with buying shrink film for the first time.

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Either way, you have quickly discovered that buying shrink film is not as simple as going to an e-com store, choosing a roll of film, and clicking "buy". Or, if you did that, you have now perhaps come to the realization that you purchased the wrong type of film for your machinery.

Maybe the film you chose works but isn&#;t the right gauge and you can see that you are wasting dollars with each product packaged. Then again, perhaps you choose a film that does not possess the right heat resistance and you now have a melted mess on your products and inside your heat tunnel.

Regardless of the issues that have brought you here, it&#;s very clear to you that you must answer several questions prior to ordering shrink film for your business. Knowing what to ask will help you ensure that you are in fact buying the correct film for your packaging needs.

At Industrial Packaging, we have helped thousands of businesses over the course of multiple decades choose the best type, size, gauge, and formulation of shrink film for their packaging needs. When new customers come to us, we walk them through the questions they should ask and make sure they know how to best optimize their packaging lines.

What Am I Shrink Wrapping?

Before you go about buying a roll or multiple rolls of shrink film for your packaging line, you have to take stock of what your products are. So, first things first, what products are you looking to wrap in shrink film?

Are you wrapping produce? If so, you are going to want to package your veggies in polyolefin. You may need alterations including perforations for breathability for certain veggies and possible anti-fog to allow for a clear product presentation and eliminated condensation.

You will also want to use polyolefin or a PVC for consumer goods such as toys or games. Many are moving away from PVC, however, if you are packaging candles, for example, you will need PVC.  This is because the fragrances contained in the candles will break down the polyolefin film.

Are you wrapping bottled water, cans of vegetables, or sauces that you find at the big box stores? If you answered yes, you will want to choose polyethylene film. Are you packaging items like CDs/DVDs, and boxes for gaming & software? If you are, then you will want to use PVC.

Are you wrapping heat-sensitive items? Should your products even be packaged in shrink film in the first place? Some products cannot be packaged in shrink film due to the heat produced in the heat tunnel during the shrink wrapping process.

So, if you do not already know if your products can be sent through a heat tunnel, how do you figure that out? In order to find out if your products can be sent through a heat tunnel for shrink film packaging applications, you will need to work with your chosen vendor to send your products through a test run inside of a heat tunnel.

This is done by sending a dummy product with what is called heat-sensitive tape through the machine. The heat-sensitive tape will indicate if the heat in the tunnel is too great for your product. This is not something you should do yourself and you should work with your local packaging professional to choose the right tapes and conduct the test to ensure the proper safety and related protocols.

What Type Of Packaging Machinery Do I Have?

Are you using a hairdryer (I hope not!) to shrink your packaging film? Are you using a heat gun? Are you using a heat tunnel? What type of sealer are you using? Is it an l-bar sealer? Or maybe a flow wrapper?

You must take into consideration the tools you are using to shrink wrap your products before you purchase your shrink wrap. Your choice of film will be limited based upon the type of machinery you are using to wrap your items.

Once you have identified the type of machinery that you are using to wrap your products, you will have to check the machinery's specifications to see what types of film can be used on that type of equipment.

Once you discover the appropriate types of films for your machine, you can move on to finding the right shrink film for your packaging applications.

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Do You Have Minimum Order Requirements?

There are some types of shrink film that require you to order minimum amounts of material to be able to place an order. For example, most printed shrink film vendors will have a minimum order requirement that will often require you to spend thousands of dollars. This is due to the printing of the film and the various elements required to produce the product, for example, ink.

In order for the order to be profitable for the company producing the printed shrink film, they have to sell a minimum number of items to cover the cost of production. Every vendor who produces these types of films has a different minimum order requirement and you will have to ask your vendor what the minimum order requirement for their film is.

Does Shipping Cost Extra?

Every shrink film vendor is different. Some companies do not charge extra for shipping, while other companies do. To find out if your vendor charges for shipping, you simply have to ask. But make sure you know because you don&#;t want to be saddled with extra charges that you weren&#;t expecting.

Where Does The Vendor Ship From?

The cost of shipping for those companies who do charge for shipping is largely determined by how far you are from the vendor.

Even though you won&#;t be calculating this on your own, it is well-advised to ask your shrink film vendor where they are located. The further away from the location that they are shipping from, the higher the cost of shipping will be to you.

What Are Your Lead Times?

The lead time for an order of shrink film is the time between the initiation and completion of a production process. The longer your estimated lead time, the longer it will take for you to receive your order of shrink film from your vendor. Generally speaking, you will want to choose a vendor with the shortest lead times possible.

Can Stock Items Replace Custom Orders?

There are times when you will attempt to place a custom order and some of the items you have requested are out of stock. In some cases, there may be stock items of similar or even the same specs, which can be used to fulfill an order that would otherwise have an excessively long lead time due to availability issues.

It is always worth asking about stocked items that could be used in place of custom orders when you find yourself in this position and need to get the order filled sooner than later.

What To Do With All Your Answers

Once you have answered all of the questions above, you should pretty much have all of the required information needed to make an educated shrink film purchase. With this data, you can buy the right amount, size, gauge, and type of shrink film for your needs.

Now, if after collecting all of this information and researching the types of film that would be the best fit for your packaging needs and you are still unsure of how to proceed, consider speaking with one of our packaging experts.

Have you ever struggled with packaging goods for shipment or storage, only to find that the material you&#;re using isn&#;t entirely up to the task? Perhaps you&#;ve experienced damaged goods or faced difficulty bundling items. Shrink film can be the answer to these common packaging woes.

Shrink film is a versatile and efficient material designed to wrap around products, providing both protection and stability tightly. It&#;s the go-to solution for businesses and individuals who require reliable packaging. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you&#;ll be well-versed in the basics of shrink film, its applications, and how to make the most out of it for your packaging needs. So, let&#;s dive in and unravel the world of shrink film, shall we?

Understanding Shrink Films

Shrink film is a polymer-based material that contracts when exposed to heat, tightly wrapping itself around the object it covers. The most common types of polymers used in shrink film are polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride. These materials are chosen for their ability to shrink uniformly and maintain a strong, puncture-resistant seal. Having worked in the packaging industry for years, I can attest to the durability and reliability of shrink film in various applications.

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History and Development of Shrink Film

The concept of shrink film dates back to the mid-20th century, when manufacturers were seeking more efficient ways to package goods. Initially, technology was rudimentary, but with advancements in polymer science, today&#;s shrink films are more versatile and effective than ever. I&#;ve seen the evolution of this material firsthand, and it&#;s fascinating how it has adapted to meet the ever-changing demands of the packaging world.

3 Types of Shrink Film

There are several types of shrink film, each with its unique properties and applications:

1. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Commonly used for non-food items due to its rigidity and strength.
2. Polyolefin: Ideal for food packaging, as it is flexible and FDA-approved for direct food contact.
3. Polyethylene: Often used for bundling multiple products together, like water bottles.

Understanding the different types of shrink film is crucial for selecting the right material for your specific needs.

Basic Principles and Science Behind Shrink Film

The science behind shrink film is quite fascinating. When the film is manufactured, it is stretched in both horizontal and vertical directions, a process known as biaxial orientation. This stretching aligns the polymer chains, but they are eager to return to their original state. When heat is applied, the tension is released, causing the film to shrink. This is the principle that allows shrink film to provide a tight, secure wrap around products.

Benefits and Applications of Shrink Film

Major Benefits of Shrink Films

1. Versatility: Suitable for packaging a broad spectrum of products, from small consumer items to large industrial machinery.
2. Durability: Offers robust protection against wear and tear.
3. Environmental Protection: Shields products from moisture, dust, and other external factors.
4. Reduction in Damage Rates: When used in shipping, it can significantly decrease the chances of product damage.
5. Cost-Efficiency: By reducing damage rates, businesses can save considerable amounts in replacement and customer service costs.

Industries Where Shrink Film is Commonly Used

Shrink film has found its way into numerous industries, each with its unique set of requirements. Some of the most common sectors include:

1. Food and Beverage: For sealing and preserving perishable items.
2. Pharmaceuticals: For tamper-evident packaging.
3. Retail: For product bundling and shelf display.
4. Electronics: For protecting sensitive components.

Over the years, I&#;ve worked with professionals from these industries, helping them optimize their packaging processes with the right type of shrink film.

Uses of Shrink Films in Packaging

Shrink film is not a one-size-fits-all solution; its application can be quite specialized. For example:

1. Multi-packs: Bundling multiple items together for retail sale.
2. Tamper Evident Bands: Providing a visible sign if a product has been tampered with.
3. Pallet Wrapping: Securing large loads for transport.

I&#;ve been involved in projects that required unique packaging solutions, and shrink film has often been the answer due to its adaptability and range of specialized applications.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability of Shrink Film

Sustainability is a growing concern, and it&#;s essential to consider the environmental impact of packaging materials. Some types of shrink film are recyclable, and ongoing research aims to make them more eco-friendly. I&#;ve been part of initiatives that focus on reducing the environmental footprint of packaging materials, and it&#;s encouraging to see the industry moving in a more sustainable direction.

How Shrink Film Works

The magic of shrink film lies in its ability to contract when exposed to heat. But how does this process work? At its core, shrink film is made by stretching a polymer material aligning its molecules in a particular pattern. When heat is applied, these molecules attempt to return to their original, relaxed state, causing the film to shrink. Having overseen countless shrink-wrapping operations, I&#;ve been continually amazed by the efficiency and precision of this process, ensuring products are tightly and securely wrapped.

Factors Affecting the Shrink Process

Several factors can influence how effectively a shrink film wraps around a product:

1. The thickness of the Film: Thicker films may require more heat to shrink effectively.
2. Type of Polymer: Different materials have varying shrink rates.
3. Heat Source: The uniformity and intensity of the heat source can affect shrinkage.

In my years of working with different businesses, understanding these factors has been crucial in ensuring optimal packaging outcomes.

The Role of Heat in the Shrinkage Process

Heat is the primary catalyst in the shrink film process. It begins to contract when the film is exposed to a heat source, such as a heat gun or a shrink tunnel. The amount of heat and its distribution are critical. Too little, and the film won&#;t shrink uniformly; too much, and it might damage the product or the film itself. My experience has taught me the importance of calibrating heat sources correctly to achieve the best results.

Common Problems and Solutions in the Shrink Process

Like any process, shrink wrapping can have its challenges. Some common issues include:

1. Uneven Shrinkage: This can be due to non-uniform heat application. Solution: Ensure the heat source is evenly distributed across the product.
2. Film Burn or Discoloration: Caused by excessive heat. Solution: Adjust the heat settings or reduce exposure time.
3. Weak Seals: This can be due to a malfunctioning sealer or using the wrong type of film. Solution: Regularly maintain equipment and ensure the right film type is used for the product.

Choosing the Right Shrink Film

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Shrink Film

Selecting the right shrink film is crucial for achieving optimal packaging results. Several factors come into play:

1. Type of Product: Is it food, electronics, or something else? Different products require different types of films.
2. Storage Conditions: Will the product be stored in a cold or hot environment?
3. Transportation: How far and by what means will the product be shipped?

Having consulted with various businesses on their packaging needs, I&#;ve found that considering these factors upfront can save both time and resources in the long run.

Comparison Between Different Types of Shrink Films

As mentioned earlier, there are several types of shrink films, each with its unique properties:

1. PVC: Best for non-food items, strong and rigid.
2. Polyolefin: Flexible and food-safe but less rigid than PVC.
3. Polyethylene: Excellent for bundling but not as clear as PVC or Polyolefin.

I&#;ve worked with all these types of films and can provide insights into their pros and cons, helping you make an informed decision.

Cost-Effectiveness of Different Shrink Films

Cost is always a consideration, but looking at the bigger picture is essential. For instance, Polyethylene might be cheaper but may not provide the clarity you need for retail display. On the other hand, Polyolefin might be more expensive, but it offers better aesthetics and is food-safe. Balancing cost with requirements is something I&#;ve helped many businesses achieve, ensuring they get the most bang for their buck.

How to Determine the Right Thickness and Size of Shrink Film for Your Product?

The thickness and size of the shrink film you choose will depend on the product you&#;re packaging. A thinner film may suffice for lighter items, while heavier or more delicate items may require a thicker, more robust film. The size will depend on the dimensions of the product. I&#;ve often found that little experimentation goes a long way in determining the right specifications.

How to Use Shrink Film

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply Shrink Film

Using shrink film effectively involves a few key steps:

1. Measure the Product: Determine the dimensions to cut the right size of shrink film.
2. Cut the Film: Use a specialized cutter to cut the film according to the measured dimensions.
3. Wrap the Product: Place the product in the center of the cut film and fold the film over it.
4. Seal the Edges: Use a heat sealer to seal the open edges.
5. Apply Heat: Use a heat gun or shrink tunnel to apply heat, causing the film to shrink and tightly wrap the product.

Having trained teams on using shrink film, I can say that following these steps closely will yield excellent results.

Essential Tools and Equipment Needed

To effectively use shrink film, you&#;ll need a few essential tools:

1. Heat Gun or Shrink Tunnel: For applying heat.
2. Heat Sealer: For sealing the film&#;s edges.
3. Cutter: For cutting the film to size.

These tools are indispensable, and investing in quality equipment can make a significant difference in the final outcome.

Safety Precautions to Observe

Safety should never be compromised. Always wear heat-resistant gloves and ensure your work area is well-ventilated. Also, read and follow the safety guidelines for each piece of equipment you&#;re using. Having overseen numerous packaging operations, I can&#;t stress enough the importance of adhering to safety protocols.

Dos and Don&#;ts in Using Shrink Film

Dos:

1. Do Test: Always test a small piece of film before wrapping the entire product.
2. Do Check Seals: Ensure all edges are properly sealed before applying heat.

Don&#;ts:

1. Don&#;t Rush: Take your time to ensure the product is well-wrapped.
2. Don&#;t Overheat: Excessive heat can damage both the product and the film.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a successful shrink-wrapping process.

Conclusion

Shrink film is an incredibly versatile and reliable packaging material that has applications across various industries. From its scientific principles to its practical uses, understanding this material can significantly benefit both businesses and individuals. Having been deeply involved in the packaging sector, I can vouch for the transformative impact that the right use of shrink film can have on your packaging needs.

If you&#;re new to the world of shrink film, don&#;t hesitate to dive in and experiment. The field is ever-evolving, and there&#;s always something new to learn. Your journey into mastering this indispensable material is bound to be a rewarding one, backed by the insights and guidelines provided in this comprehensive guide.