What is PVC shrink film? + Features and benefits

PVC shrink film serves as a versatile packaging material with a multitude of benefits. This strainable plastic safeguards products from contaminants like dirt and dust, offering flexibility to conform to various shapes. Available primarily in uniaxial and biaxial forms, PVC shrink film can wrap products either horizontally or vertically, with biaxial offering superior stability and quality.

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Notably resistant to heat and weather conditions, PVC film also excels in being lightweight, waterproof, and fireproof, enhancing its suitability for both handling and packaging needs. Its easy printability further adds to its utility in food packaging sectors.

Defining PVC

First developed by Eugen Baumann in 1872, PVC or Polyvinyl Chloride was patented for polymerization by Friedrich Klatte in 1913. During World War I, its application surged, replacing many corrosion-resistant metals. PVC is a white, brittle solid available in powder or granule form, known for being lightweight, durable, and cost-effective. It now substitutes traditional materials like wood and metal in various industries worldwide.

The material’s versatility makes it pivotal in producing pipes for drinking water, sewage systems, medical devices, wire insulation, and packaging films. It ranks as the third most-produced synthetic plastic polymer globally, following polyethylene and polypropylene.

Advantages of PVC Shrink Film

PVC shrink film offers notable benefits such as high resistance to UV rays, acids, and oils. When heated, this film contracts to tightly enclose the products, featuring:

• Low production cost
• Flexibility and impact resistance
• Effective electrical insulation
• Non-flammability
• Simplified processing
• High transparency
• Excellent heat sealing
• Good toughness
• Even thermal shrinkage
• Suitability for rapid packaging operations

Drawbacks of PVC Shrink Film

• Physical properties may degrade over time.
• Susceptible to certain chemical substances.
• Compromised structural integrity at high temperatures.
• Unsuitable for food and health product packaging.
• Inferior chemical resistance compared to other films.

Applications of PVC Shrink Film

PVC film finds its use across various sectors including food, beverages, electronics, toys, and more. Initially the packaging material of choice before polyethylene, its use has dwindled due to environmental concerns, toxicity when heated, and challenges in recycling.

Utilizing PVC Shrink Film

PVC shrink film application mirrors that of other shrink films. Heat-induced shrinking via a heat tunnel or heat gun provides a transparent, durable layer of product protection. Produced primarily in roll form, the film reshapes upon heating, aligning its molecular structure to the product's contours.

Printing on PVC

While often used without labeling, PVC shrink-wrap can be customized with print. Some industries, like mineral water companies, prefer printed or colored wraps, with customization options available for various designs.

Why PVC Film Falls Short

Despite its affordability, the production of PVC film has receded, supplanted by polyolefin and polyethylene films. Here’s why:

• Its brittleness in cold and instability in hot conditions weakens its sealing strength.
• Emits harmful by-products during sealing like hydrogen chloride.
• Pose health risks for factory workers and the public due to hydrochloric gas emissions.
• Requires stringent storage conditions compared to polyethylene.

Available in clear or tinted options, centerfold PVC shrink wrap rolls are ideal for heat-sensitive products. Compatible with I bar sealers, impulse sealers, and L-Bar Sealers, they’re a versatile packaging choice.

Understanding PVC

PVC, short for polyvinyl chloride, ranks among the most prevalent plastics globally. Known for diverse applications from pipes to packaging, PVC shrink wrap stands out in the packaging sector. Typically available in centerfold rolls of various lengths and widths, PVC shrink film is optimal for manual packaging machinery.

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Common Uses of PVC Shrink Film: PVC shrink film, long favored in packaging industries, is excellent for manual operations and has wrapped products ranging from CDs to paint trays over the years. Clear versions are most typical, but colored options help products stand out on shelves.

Cost Effectiveness: PVC shrink rolls offer a cost advantage over polyolefin wraps, ranging from 2.9 to 8 cents per foot based on width.

Choosing the right packaging material involves many options; PVC shrink wrap stands out for its affordability and presentation quality, making it a prudent choice.

Protection: Like other shrink wraps, PVC film guards against tampering and environmental factors, offering significant protection against dust, pollen, and moisture. While not fully waterproof, it provides substantial external safeguards.

Shrinking & Sealing: PVC shrink film boasts superior shrinking and sealing capabilities, with up to a 40% shrink rate at low temperatures. Proper sizing is crucial to avoid imperfections like "dog ears," and wider films are recommended for optimal sealing room.

Precautions: Ensure adequate ventilation when using PVC shrink wrap to mitigate harmful fumes from chlorine. It should not contact consumables directly; polyolefin shrink wrap is better for such applications.

Centerfold PVC shrink film offers a strong seal and remarkable clarity at affordable prices. We provide various thicknesses; for more details, contact our sales department at 1-800-441-5090.

Standard Centerfold PVC Sizes: For high production, 2000 ft. centerfold rolls are ideal, while 500 ft. rolls suit lower-volume manual machines.

Measuring for Centerfold Shrink Wrap:

To measure centerfold shrink wrap, add product width and depth, then 2-3 inches. For a 10-inch wide, 4-inch tall item, use a 16-inch wide film (10+4+2).

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