Shrink plastic: what is it, what is it used for and how to recycle it?

Shrink wrap is one of the most versatile packaging systems in existence. Because of its ability to adapt to goods of all shapes and sizes – both individual packages and entire stacks on pallets – no warehouse can do without it. Today we tell you what this great logistical ally is, how to use it correctly and what possibilities you have to recycle it and give it a new life… and a breath of fresh air for the planet!

what is shrink wrap?

Shrink wrap is a type of film made mainly from polyethylene. It is distinguished by the fact that it fits like a glove, through the application of heat, to the shapes and volumes of objects, immobilising and stabilising them for correct storage and transport. It is immune to fire and protects against the action of humidity, sun, dust and corrosive substances.

It is also very suitable for preventing theft by carelessness, taking advantage of the moments when the goods are not being watched, as it makes it difficult for unauthorised personnel to access the contents.

Shrink wrap is available in different formats, such as shrink sleeves or shrink film reels, with a choice of opaque or transparent packaging.

what is shrink wrap used for in packaging?

Shrink film can be used for many different purposes in the field of packaging, but it is particularly important in the following areas:

• Palletisation, as it is designed to compact the goods and fix them, preventing them from moving, falling or getting lost during handling.
• The storage of products outdoors, due to the protection it offers against inclement weather and other external agents.
• Export, due to its high resistance and reliability, qualities that guarantee that the products will arrive safe and sound at their destination.

How shrink wrap is applied

To properly shrink wrap your products, you will need shrink wrapping machines or hot air shrink guns.

Shrink wrapping with a hot air gun

Suitable for pallets and large objects. The process consists of:

1. Wrapping the goods with shrink film, taking care not to leave any gaps or uncovered surfaces.
2. Apply heat at all points with the gun, until the shrink film adjusts to the volume and edges of the objects.
3. Let it cool down before any action or movement.

Machine shrink wrapping

This is ideal for small to medium sized packages. Follow these steps:

1. Mount the shrink film reel on the machine.
2. Pass the film sheet through the roller.
3. Adjust the measurements to the width of the object to be packaged.
4. Prepare a pre-weld and insert the item into it.
5. Adjust the package to the corner of the shrink-wrapping area.
6. Close and press the appropriate button.

How shrink wrap is recycled

With the EU ban on single-use plastics from 2021, environmental awareness is growing in our society. And so is the involvement of logistics companies, department stores and shops in recycling discarded plastics. In addition, it is relatively quick and easy to give shrink wrap a second life.

Depending on the volume of plastic you generate, you can:

1. Drop it off at designated recycling points.
2. Hire a company to collect the waste on a regular basis.

Once at the recycling plant, the shrink wrap is compressed, cut and shredded into small fragments that are washed with water to remove any labels, paper, dirt or other foreign substances from the film itself. The resulting material is melted and placed in moulds to create raw plastic parts that can be used in the manufacture of new products.

are you looking for a fast and reliable supplier of shrink film? Trust Rajapack. We have food grade shrink film in different formats, such as sleeves and reels, to protect your shipments. You will also find in our online shop shrink machines and shrink guns to help you complete the job. And all available for delivery within 24/48 hours!