Cast vs. Blown Stretch Film: Choose the Right Wrap for Your Products

As a manufacturer, you understand the importance of securing your products during transport and storage. Stretch film is a vital tool for keeping your pallets and individual items safe, but with two main types – cast and blown – choosing the right one can be tricky. Here, we at All Pack Supply, a leading packaging supplier, will break down the key differences and similarities between these films, along with factors to consider when making your selection.

Both cast and blown films utilize a similar base material – polyethylene resin. However, their manufacturing processes differ, leading to distinct properties.

Cast Stretch Film

Molten resin is extruded through a flat die, forming a continuous sheet. This sheet is then cooled and rolled onto a core. Cast film offers excellent clarity, making it ideal for applications where visibility of barcodes or product labels is crucial. Additionally, it unwinds silently, perfect for quieter work environments.

Blown Stretch Film

Heated resin is blown upwards through a circular die, creating a bubble that's inflated and stretched to the desired width. Air cooling solidifies the film, resulting in a slightly hazy appearance. Blown film excels in puncture resistance and strength, making it the preferred choice for heavy or sharp-edged products.

Similarities

Despite their manufacturing differences, both cast and blown films share some key properties:

• Superior Holding Power: Both films cling tightly to your products, creating a secure wrap that keeps them stable during transport.

• Stretch Ratio:  Both can be stretched significantly, allowing you to use less film per application and minimize waste.

• Moisture Barrier: They protect your products from dust and moisture, ensuring they arrive at their destination in pristine condition.

Choosing the Perfect Film Based on Your Needs

Now that you understand the core differences, let's explore some key factors to consider when selecting the best film for your company:

• Product Weight and Shape:  For heavier or irregularly shaped products, blown film's strength and puncture resistance are crucial. Opt for cast film for lighter, uniform products.

• Pallet Stability:  If your pallets experience frequent movement, blown film's superior holding power will provide additional security.

• Visibility Needs:  If you need to scan barcodes or identify products through the wrap, cast film's clarity is the clear winner.

• Noise Concerns:  If noise reduction is a priority in your warehouse, cast film's silent unwinding is a major benefit.

• Budget: Cast film is generally more cost-effective due to its simpler production process. However, the cost savings might be outweighed by the benefits blown film offers for specific applications.

At All Pack Supply, we understand that choosing the right packaging solution is critical for your business. We offer a wide range of cast and blown stretch films tailored to various needs.  Our packaging experts are happy to discuss your specific requirements and recommend the film that best suits your products, budget, and operational environment.