What is Shrink Film?

Shrink Film, also known as Heat Shrink or Shrink Wrap Film, is a plastic packaging material that shrinks tightly around a product when heat is applied. It is commonly used with shrink wrapping machines and heat tunnels to create a secure, protective and professional-looking finish.

Shrink film comes in different materials, thicknesses, and widths to suit a wide range of products and packaging applications.

How Does Shrink Film Work?

A product is enclosed in shrink film, then sealed with a heat sealer or shrink-wrapping machine. When you apply heat with a heat gun or heat shrink tunnel, the film contracts around the product, creating a tight, fitted covering.

Types of Shrink Film

There are three main types of shrink film used in packaging:

  • Polyolefin (POF) Shrink Film: A versatile, strong, clear film commonly used for retail packaging, food products, printed materials, and general-purpose shrink wrapping.
  • Polyethylene (PE) Shrink Film: A thicker, more durable film typically used to bundle heavier products, cartons, bottles, and multipacks.
  • PVC Shrink Film: Has a more rigid shrink finish, traditionally used for tamper seals on bottles or jars or gift hampers, although polyolefin is now often preferred.

Benefits of Shrink Film

  • Product Protection: Protects products from dust, dirt, moisture, and handling damage.
  • Tamper Evidence: Provides a visible indication if packaging has been opened or disturbed.
  • Professional Presentation: Creates a clear, tightly fitted finish that enhances product appearance.
  • Product Bundling: Holds multiple items together for storage, transport or retail sale.
  • Versatility: Suitable for products of different shapes, sizes and packaging requirements.
  • Space Efficiency: Conforms closely to the product without the bulk of traditional packaging.

Common Applications

Shrink film is widely used to package food products, cosmetics, books, stationery, printed materials, giftware, retail products, bottles, and multipacks.

Choosing the right shrink film depends on the product's size and weight, the required film thickness, the type of shrink-wrapping machine used, and the desired packaging finish.