How Stretch Film Thickness Impacts Its Performance

Stretch film thickness is not just a number—it directly shapes how well the film works for packaging. From holding small boxes to securing heavy pallets, the right thickness ensures the film meets your needs. Below are the key ways thickness affects its performance:

1. Tensile Strength and Tear Resistance

Tensile strength means how much force the film can take before breaking; tear resistance refers to how well it avoids ripping.

  • Thinner film (6–12 μm): It has lower tensile strength and tear resistance. It works for light items (like individual small boxes) but can break easily if pulled too hard or used for heavy loads.
  • Thicker film (21 μm and above): It is much stronger. It can handle more tension when wrapping and resists tearing, even when covering heavy industrial goods or sharp-edged items.

2. Stretch Ability

Stretch film needs to stretch to wrap goods tightly. Thickness changes this ability:

  • Thinner film: It stretches more easily (often 200–300% of its original length). This makes it great for wrapping small, irregularly shaped items—its high stretch helps it fit closely.
  • Thicker film: It stretches less (usually 100–200%). While it does not stretch as much, its lower stretch keeps heavy loads tight for longer. It won’t loosen easily during transportation.

3. Protection Against External Factors

Stretch film protects goods from dust, moisture, and minor impacts. Thickness plays a big role here:

  • Thinner film: It offers basic protection (e.g., keeping dust off small packages). But it can’t stop moisture well or protect against even light bumps.
  • Thicker film: It acts as a stronger barrier. It keeps moisture out better and reduces damage from small impacts during moving. This is crucial for fragile or outdoor-stored goods.

4. Cost and Usage Efficiency

Thickness also affects how much you spend and how much film you use:

  • Thinner film: It is cheaper per roll. Since it’s light, you can wrap more small items with one roll—good for low-budget, light packaging needs.
  • Thicker film: It costs more per roll. But you need less of it to secure heavy loads (because it’s strong). Over time, it saves money by reducing the need to rewrap damaged goods.

In short, thinner stretch film works for light, small items that need easy wrapping and basic protection. Thicker film is for heavy, valuable, or fragile loads that need strength and strong protection. Choosing the right thickness ensures your goods stay safe while keeping costs reasonable.编辑分享