Shrink wrap: Protecting Your Goods

Everyone knows shrink wrap; it covers your DVDs, CDs, meat, almost all of the packages and goods that you buy every day. Life would be very different without shrink wrap. This incredibly useful tool plays a large role in almost every facet of life, from manufacturing to retail, from restaurants to home use. There are professional shrink wrap systems, home-based shrink wrap systems, and even more.

Shrink wrap is made of polymer plastic film. When you apply heat to it, the plastic shrinks, tightly covering the object with an airtight seal. Another type of shrink wrap, commonly used with shipping pallets, does not actually shrink. While called shrink wrap, it is actually more akin to the plastic wrap used to seal food and open containers in the home. Extra heat is unnecessary for this type; the plastic will adhere to itself. Other types of shrink wrap include the tubing in electrical wiring, and shrink bands that provide tamper-resistant seals. The uses of the product are quite varied.

Polyolefin comprises the most common type of shrink wrap and comes in many different sizes, thicknesses, and strengths, depending on what industry or purpose for which it is used. Polyolefin has largely replaced PVC shrink wrap. Polyolefin is simpler to use than PVC, and is environmentally friendly. Unlike PVC, polyolefin degrades over time. There are other types, but they are less popular and rarely used by the general public. Whether you need to buy it in rolls, centerfold film or bags, you can find them all through a variety of retailers. Go to SWPlastic.com to find a comprehensive online retailer with many different kinds of finishing product. Supplies and equipment for binding, laminating, and other finishing activities are all available.