Ventilated Packing – Manual Breathable Stretch Film

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hand-grade vented manual breathable stretch film

Manual breathable stretch film is an innovative solution designed to meet the specific needs of industries requiring airflow during packaging. Unlike traditional stretch films, manual breathable stretch film is pre-perforated, allowing air to circulate and reducing condensation—a critical factor for sectors like food, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. This hand stretch film type offers a perfect balance between secure packaging and maintaining product integrity, as it prevents moisture buildup, spoilage, and bacteria growth. For industries transporting fresh produce, frozen foods, and temperature-sensitive products, breathable stretch film ensures safe transit and optimal shelf life. Its manual application also makes it ideal for small-scale businesses that prioritize cost-effective and reliable packaging solutions. Manual breathable stretch film is a perforated, pre-stretched film that ensures airflow and minimizes condensation, ideal for refrigerated and food products.

Why Choose Our Stretch Film Over Competitors?

manual breathable stretch film is an innovative solution
AttributesDetails
Place of OriginFujian, China
Brand NamePWP Stretch Film
Product NameManual Breathable Stretch Film
MaterialHigh Density Polyethylene
FeaturesBreathable Packaging, Perforation, Anti-Condensation
HardnessSoft
Processing TypeMultiple Extrusion, Casting, Blow Molding
TransparencyTransparent
ColorTransparent
ThicknessCustomized
LengthCustomized
WidthCustomized
SizeCustomized
Tensile Strength0.0-50.0MPa
SurfaceSmooth, Plain, High Gloss, Glossy
OEMAvaliable
CertificateISO, ROHS
UseFruits, Flowers, Food, Pharmaceutical Products
Sales UnitSingle Item

Table of Contents

What is Manual Breathable Stretch Film?

Manual breathable stretch film is a specialized packaging material that provides both secure wrapping and ventilation. Unlike traditional stretch films, manual breathable stretch film includes pre-made perforations or vented patterns, allowing consistent airflow. This ventilation minimizes condensation and reduces the likelihood of moisture accumulation within the packaging. For sensitive products like produce, dairy, frozen items, and pharmaceuticals, this air circulation is essential to maintain freshness, prevent mold or bacteria growth, and ensure that products arrive in optimal condition.

Manual Breathable Stretch Film vs. Standard Stretch Film

FeatureManual Breathable Stretch FilmStandard Stretch Film
VentilationDesigned with perforations for airflowNo perforations; minimal or no airflow
ApplicationManual application; ideal for small businessesAvailable in both manual and machine-applied forms
Moisture ControlReduces condensation, ideal for perishable goodsCan trap moisture, unsuitable for certain temperature-sensitive items
Product FreshnessMaintains product integrity and freshnessLess suitable for fresh produce, plants, or frozen goods
StretchabilityStretches up to 50% without losing ventilation propertiesVaries; typically stretches more but lacks ventilation

Manual breathable stretch film’s unique ventilation allows it to support a wider range of products in various conditions, especially when condensation control is crucial.

Manual Pre-Stretched Vented Stretch Film

Manual Pre-Stretched Vented Stretch Film is a specialized packaging material designed for hand application, offering superior load stability, reduced film usage, and enhanced airflow for perishable or moisture-sensitive goods. It combines the benefits of pre-stretching technology with perforations to optimize performance in manual wrapping scenarios.

Key Features

  • Pre-Stretched Technology:
    The film is mechanically pre-stretched during manufacturing (typically 50–150%), reducing the effort required to stretch it manually while maintaining high tensile strength and load-holding force. This minimizes film waste and lowers packaging costs.
  • Vented Design:
    Uniform perforations (micro or macro holes) are added to allow air circulation, preventing condensation and mold growth. Ideal for fresh produce, agricultural products, or any goods requiring breathability.
  • Elastic Recovery & Cling:
    Retains excellent memory and cling properties after stretching, ensuring tight bundling and load integrity without excessive layers.
  • Eco-Friendly & Cost-Efficient:
    Pre-stretching reduces material consumption by up to 50% compared to conventional films, aligning with sustainability goals.

Material & Specifications

  • Material: Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) with optional UV inhibitors for outdoor use.
  • Thickness: 8–20 microns (pre-stretched; original gauge may be higher).
  • Perforation Patterns: Varied hole sizes (e.g., 6–12 mm diameter) and spacing (e.g., 40–100 mm apart) to balance strength and airflow.
  • Width & Roll Size: Common widths: 300–500 mm; roll lengths: 500–1,500 meters.

Advantages Over Traditional Stretch Film

  • Labor Savings: Easier to apply due to pre-stretching, reducing worker fatigue.
  • Load Protection: Prevents moisture buildup while maintaining secure wrapping.
  • Versatility: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use (if UV-treated).

This film is ideal for industries prioritizing efficiency, product freshness, and sustainable packaging solutions.

what is manual breathable stretch film

How Does Manual Breathable Stretch Film Work?

Manual breathable stretch film is a specialized packaging material designed to secure and protect products while allowing controlled air circulation. It combines the elasticity of traditional stretch film with micro-perforations or a porous structure to enable airflow, making it ideal for applications where moisture control or ventilation is critical. Below is a detailed explanation of its working mechanism, materials, and applications:

Working Mechanism

Stretch and Cling Properties

Like conventional stretch film, the manual breathable variant relies on:

  • Elastic Recovery: The film stretches (up to 200–300% elongation) when pulled manually, wrapping tightly around the load.
  • Cling Layer: A tacky surface (often treated with a polymer adhesive) ensures the film adheres to itself, creating a secure bond without needing heat or glue.

Breathability Function

The key difference lies in its ability to “breathe”:

  1. Micro-Perforations: The tiny holes allow air and moisture vapor to pass through while blocking liquid water and dust. This prevents condensation buildup inside the wrapped load.
  2. Dynamic Ventilation: When the film is stretched, the perforations expand slightly, increasing airflow. When relaxed, the holes contract, maintaining a balance between ventilation and protection.
  3. Moisture Management: In agricultural or food packaging, trapped humidity can cause spoilage. The breathable film lets excess moisture escape, reducing mold and rot.

Manual Application Process

Breathable stretch film is applied manually using handheld dispensers or by hand:

  1. Unrolling: The film is pulled from the roll and stretched around the load (e.g., palletized goods, hay bales, or fresh produce).
  2. Wrapping: The user walks around the load, overlapping layers by 30–50% to ensure stability. The cling layer bonds the layers together.
  3. Tension Control: Manual stretching (20–50% elongation) activates the film’s elasticity and cling while opening the micro-perforations for airflow.

Manual breathable stretch film works by combining stretchability with controlled ventilation through micro-perforations or porous materials. Its design addresses the need for both product security and environmental management, making it indispensable in industries where airflow and moisture control are paramount.

Key Specifications of Manual Breathable Stretch Film

Manual breathable stretch film is engineered to balance strength, elasticity, and airflow, making it suitable for applications requiring both load stability and environmental control. Below are the critical specifications that define its performance and usability:

Material Composition

  • Base Polymer: Typically linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) due to its flexibility, puncture resistance, and cling properties.
  • Additives:
    • Antioxidants: Enhance UV resistance for outdoor use.
    • Porogens: Chemical additives that create microscopic pores during stretching.
    • Anti-fog agents: Prevent condensation buildup on the film surface.
  • Multi-layer Construction: Some films use co-extruded layers to combine breathability with enhanced strength.

Thickness

  • Range: Usually between 12–30 microns (0.47–1.18 mils).
  • Trade-offs:
    • Thinner films (12–17 microns): Lightweight, cost-effective, and easier to stretch manually.
    • Thicker films (20–30 microns): Higher puncture resistance and load stability for heavy or irregular-shaped goods.

Perforation Specifications

  • Hole Size: Micro-perforations range from 50–200 microns in diameter.
  • Perforation Density:
    • Low: 50–100 holes/m² (minimal airflow, for light ventilation).
    • High: 200–500 holes/m² (enhanced breathability, ideal for perishables).
  • Pattern: Uniformly spaced holes or staggered rows to optimize airflow without compromising film integrity.

Breathability Rate

  • Measured as moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) or airflow capacity:
    • Typical MVTR: 500–2,000 g/m²/day (grams of moisture vapor transmitted per square meter daily).
    • Airflow: 5–20 CFM/ft² (cubic feet per minute per square foot) under standard conditions.

Stretchability

  • Elongation at Break200–300% (ability to stretch without tearing).
  • Pre-Stretch Capacity: Manual films achieve 20–50% pre-stretch during application, reducing material usage while maintaining tension.

Film Width and Roll Length

  • Width: Common widths include 30 cm, 45 cm, or 50 cm (12″, 18″, or 20″) to accommodate different load sizes.
  • Roll Length: Typically 300–1,500 meters (1,000–5,000 feet), depending on thickness and application needs.

Cling Properties

  • Surface Treatment: One or both sides are treated with a polyisobutylene (PIB) or acrylic cling layer for self-adhesion.
  • Cling Force:
    • Low cling: 50–100 g/cm² (for easy unwrapping).
    • High cling: 150–300 g/cm² (for secure bonding in humid conditions).

UV Resistance

  • UV Stabilizers: Added to films for outdoor use (e.g., agricultural wraps).
  • Lifespan: UV-resistant films retain integrity for 6–12 months under direct sunlight.

Color and Transparency

  • Clear Films: Allow visibility of packaged goods.
  • White/Black Films: Provide UV protection or light-blocking for sensitive products.
  • Colored Films: Used for branding or categorizing loads.

Load-Holding Force

  • Tensile Strength20–40 MPa (megapascals) to resist tearing during wrapping.
  • Puncture Resistance300–600 g/mil (grams per mil thickness) to withstand sharp edges.

Temperature Tolerance

  • Operating Range-40°C to 60°C (-40°F to 140°F), ensuring performance in extreme climates.

Biodegradability

  • Eco-friendly Options: Some films incorporate oxo-degradable additives or biodegradable polymers (e.g., PLA blends) to reduce environmental impact.
  • Certifications: Compliant with standards like ASTM D6400 (compostability) or OK Compost Industrial.

Compliance Standards

FDA Compliance: Required for films contacting food products (e.g., fresh produce packaging).

ASTM D882: Standard test method for tensile properties of thin plastic sheeting.

ISO 4591: Measurement of perforation size and distribution.

ParameterTypical Range
Thickness12–30 microns
Perforation Size50–200 microns
MVTR500–2,000 g/m²/day
Stretchability200–300% elongation
Roll Width30–50 cm
Cling Force50–300 g/cm²
UV Resistance6–12 months outdoors
Tensile Strength20–40 MPa
Temperature Tolerance-40°C to 60°C

Advantages of Using Manual Breathable Stretch Film

Using manual breathable stretch film offers numerous benefits that make it an excellent choice for businesses requiring breathable packaging solutions. Designed to balance ventilation and durability, this type of stretch film provides unique advantages for a range of products, especially in industries where freshness, moisture control, and sustainability are paramount. The stretch film production process plays a critical role in achieving these qualities, as it involves carefully selecting materials and techniques to ensure the film’s breathability and strength. This ensures optimal protection while maintaining product integrity during transport and storage.

Cost-Effectiveness for Small-Scale Operations

One of the main advantages of manual breathable stretch film is its cost-efficiency. Small businesses or operations with limited packaging budgets benefit greatly from this film’s affordability and ease of use, eliminating the need for expensive machinery. Many suppliers source these films from specialized stretch film factory, which focus on producing high-quality, cost-effective options tailored for manual applications. Manual breathable stretch film is straightforward to apply by hand, saving on equipment costs and reducing overhead expenses, making it an ideal solution for businesses needing an efficient, cost-effective packaging option.

Reduced Moisture Buildup and Spoilage Prevention

Manual breathable stretch film is highly effective at minimizing moisture buildup, a crucial factor for preserving product quality. The ventilation properties of this film allow for controlled airflow, which prevents condensation within the wrapped product. This is particularly beneficial for perishable items, as it reduces the risk of mold and spoilage. Products like fresh produce, flowers, and dairy items remain fresh longer, as the breathable film supports an ideal storage environment that combats excess humidity.

Enhanced Durability and Flexibility

Durability is essential in stretch film, especially for manually applied films. Manual breathable stretch film combines flexibility with strength, allowing it to stretch efficiently without tearing, even when applied to irregularly shaped loads. This flexibility ensures a secure wrap while maintaining the breathable properties that protect product integrity. The chemistry stretch film is formulated to enhance these qualities, offering superior stretch and conformability. The film’s ability to stretch and conform to different load types provides reliable support, keeping products stable during transport.

Environmentally Sustainable Material

Made from recyclable materials such as mLLDPE, manual breathable stretch film aligns with environmental sustainability goals. This film is fully recyclable, reducing plastic waste and providing a more sustainable alternative to traditional packaging options. Businesses that prioritize eco-friendly practices find that using manual breathable stretch film helps to reduce their environmental footprint while meeting packaging needs, making it a favorable choice for companies and industries aiming for greener operations.

Improved Temperature Control

The breathable design of manual breathable stretch film also helps in maintaining temperature control. By allowing air circulation, this film minimizes temperature fluctuations, making it ideal for products that need a stable climate. Pharmaceuticals, frozen foods, and other temperature-sensitive items benefit from this feature, as it helps maintain product quality even during long transit times.

Versatile Application Across Industries

Manual breathable stretch film is suitable for a diverse range of industries, from food and pharmaceuticals to horticulture and consumer goods. Its unique combination of ventilation, durability, and flexibility makes it adaptable to many different packaging scenarios, allowing businesses in various sectors to benefit from its specialized design. This versatility ensures that products are safely and securely wrapped, extending shelf life and preserving quality across multiple applications.

The advantages of manual breathable stretch film extend from cost savings and moisture reduction to improved durability and sustainability, offering a comprehensive packaging solution for companies seeking reliable, breathable packaging options.

Manual Breathable Stretch Film Types and Sizes

Types of Manual Breathable Stretch Film

  1. Perforated Stretch Film
    • Features small holes throughout the surface.
    • Allows air circulation, reducing condensation and moisture buildup.
    • Ideal for packaging perishable goods like food, flowers, and produce.
    • Prevents mold and spoilage during storage and transportation.
  2. Reinforced Breathable Stretch Film
    • Combines perforations with additional strength for more durability.
    • Suitable for heavier or more fragile loads that require both protection and ventilation.
    • Offers a balance between breathability and the structural integrity needed for demanding packaging tasks.
  3. Pre-Stretched Breathable Stretch Film
    • Pre-stretched to reduce the effort needed during the wrapping process.
    • Reduces force required to apply the film, making it easier to use manually.
    • Maintains its strength and elasticity even after being stretched.
  4. High-Tensile Breathable Stretch Film
    • Designed for high-load applications.
    • Provides exceptional strength and tear resistance while still allowing air circulation.
    • Ideal for heavy-duty packages that need secure, breathable wrapping.
manual breathable stretch film types and sizes

Sizes of Manual Breathable Stretch Film

  1. Width
    • Common widths range from 12 inches to 20 inches.
    • Custom widths are available based on customer packaging needs.
    • The width chosen depends on the size of the items being wrapped.
  2. Length
    • Standard roll lengths typically range from 1,000 feet to 4,000 feet.
    • The choice of length depends on the frequency and volume of wrapping required.
    • Longer rolls reduce the need for frequent roll changes during use.
  3. Gauge (Thickness)
    • Typically ranges from 60 gauge to 120 gauge.
    • Thinner gauges are better for lighter loads, while thicker gauges provide additional strength for heavier items.
    • Custom gauges may be available for specialized packaging needs.
  4. Core Size
    • The core size usually ranges from 1-inch to 3-inch diameter.
    • Smaller cores are used for hand wrapping, while larger cores are typically used for machine wrapping.
    • The core size must match the packaging equipment being used.

By understanding these types and sizes, businesses can select the most appropriate manual breathable stretch film for their specific packaging needs.

Key Features of Manual Breathable Stretch Film

Manual breathable stretch film offers a range of advantages that make it ideal for packaging sensitive and perishable goods. Here’s a breakdown of its key characteristics:

Air Permeability

  • Provides up to 80% air permeability, allowing products to breathe and preventing condensation buildup.
  • This feature is crucial for packaging items sensitive to moisture, such as food and plants, by maintaining product integrity and reducing spoilage.

Versatility in Application

  • Suitable for manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic winding machines, making it adaptable to various packaging environments.
  • The film’s flexibility ensures compatibility with existing packaging equipment, eliminating the need for costly upgrades.

Cost-Effective

  • Uses less material than traditional packaging methods like corner tape or straps, significantly reducing packaging costs.
  • Its ability to stabilize pallets with less film results in lower material costs while maintaining security and protection.

Speed and Ease of Use

  • Packaging with manual breathable stretch film is faster and easier compared to traditional methods such as corner tape wrapping.
  • Adjustable breathing hole sizes provide more control over ventilation levels, ensuring the right balance for various products.

Increased Strength and Stability

  • The film offers excellent holding power, securing products without damaging cartons or other packaging materials.
  • Provides uniform force distribution, which prevents shifting and damage during transport, ensuring the load stays intact.

Environmental Sustainability

  • Made from 100% recyclable mLLDPE, making it an environmentally friendly choice without compromising on strength and performance.
  • This feature supports sustainability while still delivering superior packaging results.

Optimal for Various Products

  • Ideal for packaging heated, refrigerated, moist, breathable, or fumigated products.
  • Ensures that goods are packaged safely and can breathe, minimizing risks like mold, spoilage, and condensation damage.

Elasticity and Flexibility

  • Offers up to 50% stretch, allowing more coverage with less film, which enhances efficiency.
  • The film recovers to its original length after application, providing reliable support and elasticity to keep loads stable.

Improved Factory Efficiency

  • By streamlining the packaging process, manual breathable stretch film increases factory efficiency and saves time in the production line.
  • Reduces the time spent on manual wrapping, lowering overall labor costs and improving productivity.

With these features, manual breathable stretch film provides a versatile, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution for packaging sensitive items, enhancing efficiency and protecting products during storage and transit.

Common Applications of Manual Breathable Stretch Film

Manual breathable stretch film is designed for industries that need ventilation in their packaging to preserve product quality and freshness. This film type is highly versatile and widely used to address specific packaging needs in industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, floral, and pet food, where maintaining the right balance of airflow and protection is essential. By providing necessary ventilation, breathable hand stretch film helps prevent condensation, stabilize temperatures, and extend shelf life.

Manual breathable stretch film offers a versatile solution for various industries, particularly in sectors where airflow, moisture control, and product integrity are critical. Below is a detailed breakdown of how manual breathable stretch film is used in several key applications:

common applications of manual breathable stretch film

Food Products

Manual breathable stretch film is widely used in the food industry, particularly for perishable items, as it helps maintain freshness and extend shelf life.

  • Frozen Goods: The breathable nature of the film prevents condensation and ice buildup on frozen products, which helps maintain their quality during transportation and storage. Air circulation reduces the risk of freezer burn, preserving the integrity of frozen items.
  • Fresh Produce: The film ensures that fresh fruits and vegetables remain fresh by allowing controlled airflow. This reduces excessive moisture, preventing mold growth and spoilage. It is especially useful for produce that requires specific humidity levels, such as leafy greens and berries.
  • Dairy Products: Dairy goods benefit from the controlled environment provided by manual breathable stretch film, which prevents bacterial growth by allowing air circulation while maintaining the necessary temperature conditions.
  • Meat and Seafood: Breathable stretch film helps minimize condensation inside packaging, which can lead to bacterial growth. By allowing airflow, it ensures meat and seafood stay fresh and safe, preserving quality until they reach consumers.

Pharmaceutical Products

In the pharmaceutical sector, manual breathable stretch film is used to protect sensitive items that require strict temperature and humidity control.

  • Temperature-Sensitive Items: Pharmaceuticals like vaccines, biologics, and temperature-sensitive medications benefit from breathable stretch film, as it prevents condensation that can affect potency. The ventilation provided by the film ensures that products remain in optimal conditions during transport and storage.
  • Humidity Control: Certain medications, such as dry powders and tablets, require a dry environment to remain effective. The breathable nature of the film helps control moisture levels, reducing the risk of degradation due to excessive humidity.

Other Industries

Manual breathable stretch film is not limited to food and pharmaceuticals. It also serves various other sectors, offering protection and stability for a wide range of products:

  • Pet Food: For dry pet food, breathable stretch film helps maintain the product’s flavor and texture by preventing moisture buildup during transport. This ensures the product reaches consumers in optimal condition.
  • Floral Arrangements: Flowers and plants are sensitive to both temperature and humidity. The film allows for sufficient airflow, preventing wilting and extending the lifespan of floral products, making it ideal for transportation and storage.
  • Canneries: Manual breathable stretch film is used to package canned goods, ensuring they remain fresh and free from spoilage during storage and transport. The film helps maintain the ideal temperature while preventing condensation.
  • Plants and Horticulture: The film allows for adequate ventilation to protect delicate plants during transportation, preserving their condition and preventing damage to leaves and flowers.
  • Soda and Beer: In the beverage industry, manual breathable stretch film is used to protect soda, beer, and other carbonated drinks by promoting proper airflow to maintain carbonation levels and prevent pressure buildup during transport.

Additional Applications

  • Dry Ice: The film ensures that dry ice sublimates properly by promoting airflow, which helps maintain the integrity of the product.
  • Fuel: Used in the packaging of fuel products, the breathable stretch film ensures safe transit without moisture accumulation.
  • Flowers: For the floral industry, the film keeps flowers fresh by preventing wilting and ensuring proper air circulation.

In conclusion, manual breathable stretch film is a versatile, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution used across multiple industries. Its ability to allow airflow while preventing condensation makes it ideal for packaging and protecting a wide variety of products, ensuring that they remain fresh, safe, and in optimal condition throughout storage and transport.

Manufacturing Manual Breathable Stretch Film

The production of manual breathable stretch film involves specialized techniques to combine elasticity, cling, and controlled airflow. The process integrates polymer science, precision engineering, and quality control to meet performance specifications. Below is a detailed breakdown of the manufacturing steps, technologies, and critical considerations:

Raw Material Preparation

  • Base Polymer:
    • LLDPE (Linear Low-Density Polyethylene): The primary resin due to its flexibility, tensile strength, and stretchability.
    • Additives:
      • Porogens (e.g., calcium carbonate or starch particles): Create micro-pores during stretching.
      • UV stabilizers: For outdoor durability.
      • Anti-block agents: Prevent film layers from sticking during production.
      • Cling agents (e.g., PIB or acrylics): Added to ensure self-adhesion.
  • Mixing:
    • Resin pellets and additives are blended in precise ratios using a gravimetric feeder to ensure uniformity.

Extrusion Process

Breathable stretch film is typically produced via blown film extrusion or cast extrusion, with blown extrusion being more common for multi-layer films.

Blown Film Extrusion

  1. Melting and Extrusion:
    • The polymer blend is fed into an extruder, heated to 160–230°C, and melted into a viscous fluid.
    • The molten polymer is forced through a circular die to form a thin, continuous tube.
  2. Bubble Formation:
    • Compressed air is injected into the tube, inflating it into a bubble (controlled by Internal Bubble Cooling).
    • The bubble is stretched vertically and horizontally to achieve the desired thickness and molecular orientation.
  3. Multi-layer Co-extrusion:
    • For co-extruded breathable films, multiple extruders feed distinct layers (e.g., a breathable core layer and cling outer layers).

Cast Film Extrusion

  • Used for high-speed production of single-layer films.
  • Molten polymer is extruded through a flat die onto chilled rollers, rapidly cooling it into a flat sheet.

Perforation or Porosity Creation

The breathability is achieved through mechanical perforation or in-situ pore formation:

Mechanical Perforation

  1. Laser or Pin Perforation:
    • After extrusion, the film passes through a perforation unit.
    • Laser systems or rotary pin rollers create micro-holes (50–200 µm) in a predefined pattern.
    • Advantages: Precise hole size and distribution.
  2. Quality Control:
    • Vision systems inspect hole uniformity to prevent weak spots.

Porogen-Based Pore Formation

  • Stretching Activation:
    • Films containing porogen additives (e.g., CaCO₃) are machine-direction oriented (MDO) or biaxially oriented.
    • Stretching at 80–120°C causes the polymer to separate around porogens, creating interconnected micropores.
  • Leaching:
    • In some cases, porogens are chemically washed out post-stretching to enhance porosity.

Cooling and Annealing

  • Air or Water Cooling:
    • The film is cooled rapidly to lock in molecular structure and prevent shrinkage.
  • Annealing:
    • For oriented films, controlled reheating (below melting point) relieves internal stresses and stabilizes dimensions.

Surface Treatment

  • Cling Layer Application:
    • A thin layer of polyisobutylene (PIB) or acrylic adhesive is applied via coating rollers or co-extrusion.
    • Treated side(s) are corona-treated to enhance surface energy and adhesion.

Slitting and Winding

  • Slitting:
    • The film is cut into rolls of specific widths (e.g., 30 cm, 45 cm) using razor blades or rotary knives.
  • Tension-Controlled Winding:
    • Rolls are wound under consistent tension to prevent wrinkling or telescoping.

Quality Control and Testing

  • Perforation Integrity:
    • Microscopic analysis to ensure hole size, density, and uniformity.
  • Physical Properties:
    • Tensile Strength (ASTM D882): Measures elongation and break resistance.
    • MVTR Testing (ASTM E96): Quantifies moisture vapor transmission rate.
    • Puncture Resistance (ASTM D5748).
  • Cling Force:
    • Measured using a dynamometer to ensure proper adhesion.

Key Technologies and Innovations

  1. Laser Perforation Systems:
    • Enable high-speed, precise hole creation with minimal material waste.
  2. Multi-Layer Co-extrusion:
    • Combines breathability with enhanced strength and cling properties.
  3. Biodegradable Formulations:
    • Use of PLA (polylactic acid) blends or oxo-degradable additives for eco-friendly films.

Manufacturing manual breathable stretch film requires precision in material selection, extrusion, and perforation technologies to achieve the optimal balance of stretch, cling, and breathability. Advances in laser perforation, multi-layer co-extrusion, and biodegradable materials continue to expand its applications. Producers must tailor processes to meet industry-specific requirements, ensuring compliance with performance standards while minimizing environmental impact.

Why Choose PWP Stretch Film as Your Manual Breathable Stretch Film Manufacturer?

  1. Superior Quality: PWP Stretch Film is committed to delivering the highest quality manual breathable stretch film, meeting industry standards and surpassing customer expectations. We ensure that our products provide the best performance in terms of breathability, strength, and durability.
  2. Customization Options: We understand that different packaging needs require tailored solutions. PWP Stretch Film offers customization in film thickness, roll width, and length, allowing you to get the perfect manual breathable stretch film that suits your specific requirements.
  3. Reliable Supply: With our efficient production capabilities, we ensure a continuous and reliable supply of manual breathable stretch film. You can depend on us to fulfill your packaging needs on time, every time, with consistency.
  4. Competitive Pricing: PWP Stretch Film offers competitive pricing without compromising on the quality or performance of our manual breathable stretch film. We strive to provide excellent value, helping you achieve cost savings without sacrificing product integrity.
  5. Excellent Customer Service: Our dedicated customer service team is always ready to assist you. From technical support to timely communication, we ensure that your experience with PWP Stretch Film is smooth and hassle-free. Our team is committed to helping you find the right solution for your packaging needs and providing ongoing support throughout the purchasing process.

Choose PWP Stretch Film for reliable, high-quality, and cost-effective manual breathable stretch film solutions tailored to your business needs.

FAQs about Manual Breathable Stretch Film

What is the difference between stretch wrap and stretch film?

Stretch wrap and stretch film essentially refer to the same product, and the terms are often used interchangeably. Both are types of plastic films that are highly elastic and used for wrapping around items to keep them secure during transportation or storage. Stretch wrap is typically available in rolls and can be manually or machine-applied to products. The primary difference lies in the usage of the terms in different regions or industries. “Stretch wrap” often refers more to the action or process of wrapping, whereas “stretch film” refers to the material itself. Regardless of the term used, both serve the same function – to provide stability to pallet loads, protect products, and reduce damage during transit.

What is the difference between cling film and stretch film?

Cling film and stretch film serve different purposes and are therefore manufactured differently. Cling film, also known as plastic wrap or food wrap, is a thin plastic film used primarily to cover food items to keep them fresh. It is designed to cling tightly to the surface of containers or foods, preventing air from entering. Cling film is generally made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE). On the other hand, stretch film is a highly elastic plastic film typically made from linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). It is used in industrial settings to secure pallet loads. Stretch film has superior tensile strength compared to cling film and is designed for load stability rather than food preservation. While both films are stretchy, the key difference lies in their applications: cling film is for domestic use in food wrap, and stretch film is for industrial use in packaging and load securing.

What is the difference between blown film and stretch film?

Blown film and stretch film are terms that describe different types of plastic films with distinct manufacturing processes and applications. Blown film is produced using the blown film extrusion process, where molten polymer is extruded through a circular die and inflated to form a thin film. This process gives blown film excellent strength, toughness, and resistance to punctures and tearing. It is commonly used for products like grocery bags, agricultural films, and packaging materials. Stretch film, specifically designed for wrapping and securing pallet loads, is typically made through the cast extrusion process. This method involves extruding molten plastic through a flat die and cooling it quickly, resulting in a highly elastic film with smooth surfaces and consistent thickness. While both blown film and stretch film are used in packaging, the former is valued for its durability and barrier properties, while the latter is prized for its high stretchability and ability to secure loads efficiently.

What is the difference between stretch hood and stretch film?

Stretch hood and stretch film are both used for securing and protecting palletized loads but differ significantly in their design and application. Stretch hood is a type of packaging material that comes in a tubular form with one end sealed. It creates a “hood” that stretches over the top and sides of a pallet load. Stretch hood films are highly elastic, offering excellent stability and protection against environmental factors. The application process typically involves a machine that stretches the hood over the pallet, making it ideal for high-volume operations. In contrast, stretch film is applied by wrapping layers of film around the load. It can be applied manually or by machine and is often available in rolls. Stretch film is versatile and effective for securing loads but generally requires more time and labor compared to the automated application of stretch hoods. The primary differences between the two lie in their shapes (tubular versus flat) and application methods (hooding versus wrapping), with stretch hoods offering greater efficiency and stability for large-scale operations.

How Many Types of Stretch Film Are There?

Stretch film comes in several different types, each designed to meet specific packaging needs. Among these, manual breathable stretch film is a specialized option primarily used for wrapping goods that require airflow during storage and transport. While there are many types of stretch film, they can generally be classified into a few main categories:
Cast Stretch Film – Known for its clarity and ease of use, cast stretch film is commonly used in manual applications. It provides strong cling and elasticity but does not offer breathability.
Blown Stretch Film – Offers superior strength and puncture resistance but lacks breathability. It is used for heavier loads but may not be suitable for products that need ventilation.
Manual Breathable Stretch Film – Specifically designed for wrapping items that require ventilation, such as fresh produce, flowers, and other perishable goods. The breathable properties allow air to circulate, reducing the risk of spoilage.
Thus, manual breathable stretch film is a specialized variant that addresses the need for ventilation in packaging, while other stretch films focus on strength, clarity, or puncture resistance.

PWP Stretch Film editor James Thompson

My name is James Thompson, and I’m the editor of this website dedicated to Stretch Film, Pallet Wrap, and Stretch Wrap products.

My passion for packaging began when I noticed the challenges companies face in securing their products efficiently for transportation and storage. This inspired me to delve deep into the world of stretch films and pallet wraps, exploring the latest technologies and best practices.

I aim to provide valuable insights, practical tips, and up-to-date industry trends to assist you in making informed decisions. Whether you’re a small business owner or part of a large corporation, my goal is to support you in optimizing your operations and ensuring your products reach their destination safely.

Thank you for visiting, and I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward better packaging solutions.




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