Machine Stretch Films

Whenever you are selecting machine film, it is important to take into account the following variables:

Product type

The type of stretch film depends on what you are wrapping. Lighter, more fragile goods require a lower gauge of film to avoid being crushed than heavier, more solid goods that can withstand the pressure of higher gauges.

Type of load

Two factors that determine load type & SHY; the weight of the load and the uniformity of its outside surface. In stretch film talk, the first three letters of the alphabet distinguish load types. 'A' loads have no irregularities, 'B' loads have protrusions up to 100mm, and 'C' loads over 100mm.

Type of equipment

Machine stretch levels will help determine what type of film you need to wrap a load. Whereas higher gauges were once required for machines with high pre-stretch levels, today we are selling thinner, tougher films that can endure greater levels of stretch while maintaining their strength.

Film thickness

Commonly available gauges for stretch film range from 15µm to 30µm. Load type, weight and height are important factors when selecting film thickness. As pre-stretch increases, it is vital that the stretch film does not lose its strength. Light gauges are excellent dust covers for already secure/strapped loads. Heavy gauges or new technology gauges are excellent for loads requiring high containment.

Shipping conditions

With many handling conditions and external shipping variables to take into account (such as part or full loads, export or rail), we advise you to contact our team for film type, stretch percentage and wrap pattern recommendations to match your requirements.