Hand-wrapping and machine-wrapping films

There are basically two types of stretch film:

• Hand-wrapping film
• Machine wrap film

Rolls of hand-wrapping film are smaller and lighter because they are wrapped around a pallet by hand. This stretch film is often used in situations where the complexity of the load is limited and no large number of pallets need to be wrapped.

As the name suggests, machine wrap film is wrapped around a pallet with a machine: the film is clamped to a pallet with a rotating arm and wrapped around it. The other way around is also possible: the film stands still and the pallet turns around. Which of the two you use depends on the speed of wrapping.

There are also different thicknesses in stretch film. Common thicknesses of stretch film are 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 20, 23 and 30 microns (1 micron = 1 thousandth millimeter). An average stretch film is currently 20 microns.

Stretch film further distinguishes itself in different types for different types of cargo. There is stretch film for light load, heavy load and difficult load. Within these types there are different types, each with its own specialty. There are UV films, which are resistant to the sun's rays, coloured films, which, for example, keep their contents covered, and films suitable for deep-frozen products. All these films have their own different properties.