Packaging Materials

BAGS

The key to quality packaging bags is quality film. When choosing a plastic film for a packaging bag, it is important to consider the requirements and restrictions of the intended application. These factors determine which material characteristics are critical and, consequently, which material is most suitable.

STRETCH FILM

Stretch film—also known as stretch wrap—is available in hand or machine variations. This differentiation refers to whether the film is applied manually or by a machine. Machine film rolls provide superior stretching capabilities, enabling automation of wrapping operations, material savings, reduced environmental impact and increased throughput
The optimal film gauge depends largely on the load type and the conditions it will be traveling in. It can be determined through the Rite-Gauging assessment offered by PACKPRO at no charge.

SHRINK FILM

In addition to different gauges and sizes, shrink film is available with a variety of performance characteristics to suit various applications. They include tensile strength, tear resistance, heat stability, shrink force, and other factors. Polyolefin shrink film, especially ones with a crosslinked structure, offers superior durability and versatility at competitive prices.

TAPES

Pressure-sensitive tapes and water-activated tapes are two types of tapes used in packaging applications. Users use pressure-sensitive tape by applying pressure to stick the tape’s pre-applied adhesive onto the substrate. Water-activated tape (WAT) improves carton-sealing productivity on average by 21% as compared to pressure-sensitive tape. WAT is applied with a WAT dispenser.

VOID FILL

Void fill comes in several forms, such as bubble wrap, air pillows, and paper pads. These packaging components fill the empty space in packaging containers to minimize the amount of movement experienced by the packaged product during transit and delivery. By reducing this movement, it prevents damage to the internal contents of the package. Watch Benefits of Void Fill video.

PROTECTIVE PACKAGING

In addition to void fill, other types of protective packaging include wrappings and inserts. Like void fill, these packaging components are available in foam, plastic, and paper. The requirements of the packaging operation—e.g., desired production efficiency, product protection, and environment impact—influence which of these materials is most suitable for your packaging needs.

STRAPPING

Traditionally, strapping was made of steel. However, steel strapping is expensive and often leads to injuries to both employees and customers. Newer strapping uses plastic material—generally polyester—that reduces risk of injury and is much easier to use. In addition to being safer, plastic strapping is more cost-effective, improves productivity and helps reduce environmental impact, being made from recycled materials and widely recyclable.

CORRUGATED BOXES AND CARTONS

Optimal corrugated packaging for your products can deliver multiple benefits. In a well-designed corrugated boxes structural and graphic design elements work seamlessly together to meet the functional physical, processing and end-user requirements. Our packaging materials specialists help customer meet the performance requirements of a box, while controlling total costs throughout the system.

FOOD PACKAGING MATERIALS

When it comes to food packaging materials, food safety and consumer safety are the primary concern.  It is critical to ensure hygienic design (to reduce the risk of food product contamination due to the packaging material) and hygienic operations (to mitigate the risk of food product contamination due to outside factors). Additionally, proper labeling must be ensured regarding contents or storage specifications, to minimize the risk of adverse health effects in consumers.

Some of the common package types and materials used in the food and beverage industry include:

• Food trays and containers. Traditionally food trays and containers are made from plastic and plastic-based materials, such as foam. However, like with many packaging products, a stronger focus on the environmental impact has led to the development of more environmentally-responsible packaging options.  These alternatives include paper-, pulp- and plant-based materials.
• Clamshells. A popular food packaging option. In addition to traditional plastics, today clamshells are available in more environmentally-friendly materials, including recycled, biodegradable, and compostable options.
• Bags. Bags for food applications come in a variety of materials and with various laminations to ensure food safety as well as aroma, gas, and flavour containment. Specialty bags we offer provide excellent stiffness and gloss for maximum brand impact
• Food film and lidding stock. Food film is available in a number of different food-grade plastic materials, such as PVC and LDPE.