PVC Shrink Wrap, Polyolefin Shrink Wrap and Polyethylene Shrink Wrap

Several months ago we wrote a series of posts discussing the different types of shrink wrap available. This is a new refresher post to specify and reiterate the different shrink wrap films available and the different characteristics each one has. Each shrink film has its own benefits and multiple uses. Below is a description of the shrink films we offer and the characteristics of each.

PVC Shrink Wrap– PVC shrink wrap is commonly used in a variety of industries for retail packaging. It is a more affordable shrink film than many other options available. Most companies use PVC shrink film for lighter weight retail packaging. PVC stands for Poly Vinyl Chloride. Due to the chloride in the film, PVC shrink film can not come into direct contact with consumable products. PVC shrink film is commonly sold in a 75 or 100 gauge thickness.

PVC shrink film is commonly very thin and pliable before heat is applied. Once heat is applied to the film, it become harder and more brittle. We recommend the use of PVC shrink wrap with a variety of products. Some products commonly wrapped with PVC shrink film include: CDs, DVDs, soaps, candles, boxes of chocolates, etc. There are products all around us that are wrapped with PVC shrink wrap because of the affordability and versatility it offers.

Polyolefin shrink Wrap- Until recently, PVC shrink film has been the chosen retail shrink film for many companies. Polyolefin is a newer type of shrink film that is now preferred over PVC. Polyolefin shrink wrap is more expensive, but performs exceptionally well when compared to PVC shrink film.

The ability to store polyolefin in a wide temperature range is one benefit it offers. PVC film has a tendency to degrade and lose form when exposed to wide temperature ranges. When stored in warmer temperatures PVC shrink film can crinkle and stick together. When stored in colder climates, PVC shrink film often becomes brittle and hard. Polyolefin film does not have any of those defects during storage. This benefit save companies the risk of material loss.

Another advantage of polyolefin shrink film is many types are FDA approved. Polyolefin is often used to wrap and come into direct contact with a variety of food products. It offers a strong and durable seal  Polyolefin shrink wrap works well with a variety of machines and sealers.

Polyethylene Shrink Wrap- Often used to wrap, protect, and unitize a variety of large objects. Polyethylene shrink wrap is used to winterize boats, unitize pallet loads, and wrap large boxes. Polyethylene shrink wrap is most commonly seen in grocery stores wrapped around cases of bottled water.

Polyethylene shrink wrap is normally thicker and offers more stretchability that other shrink films. For outdoor storage, some polyethylene films offer UV protection. We sell polyethylene pallet shrink bags and polyethylene shrink tubing. Our polyethylene shrink tubing is currently not offered online, but we do sell a wide variety of sizes and thicknesses starting at a 100 gauge.

If you have any questions about the products mentioned in the post, call use a 1-800-441-5090.