Stretch films

A stretch film is an extensible plastic film used to hold, group, and protect goods. It is mainly applied around pallets, boxes, or products to improve load cohesion. It also helps protect goods from dust, moisture, and dirt during storage or transport.

Manual stretch film is applied directly by an operator, usually by hand or with the help of a dispenser. It is suitable for moderate volumes, mobile stations, and occasional uses. Machine stretch film is designed to work on an automatic or semi-automatic wrapper and is more suited to high speeds and repetitive operations.

Pre-stretched film has already undergone controlled stretching before use. Therefore, it requires less effort or additional tension during application. This solution can facilitate wrapping, improve the consistency of the film application, and help better control the amount of film used, provided that its performance is suitable for the load.

The choice mainly depends on the weight, shape, and stability of the load. It is also important to consider sharp edges, the mode of transport, the duration of storage, and the palletising speed. A uniform and stable pallet does not necessarily require the same level of strength as a heavy, irregular, or likely to shift load.

The thickness should be suitable for the weight of the pallet, the risk of puncture, and the constraints encountered during handling. A thinner film may be suitable for regular and light loads, while a thicker film is generally preferable for heavy, unstable pallets or those with sharp edges. However, the thickness should not be chosen without considering the stretchability and strength of the film.

A clear film allows for visual inspection of the goods, reading labels, and quickly identifying the contents of the pallet. A black or white opaque film conceals the products and enhances their confidentiality during storage or transport. The choice therefore depends on the needs for visibility, identification, and visual protection.

The film should be secured to the base of the pallet, then applied with consistent tension while gradually wrapping around the load. The different layers should overlap sufficiently to ensure good cohesion. It is particularly important to reinforce the base, corners, and top of the pallet without crushing or distorting the goods.

It is advisable to specify the dimensions and weight of the load, its stability, the palletising rate, and the application method used. DERFI can guide the user towards manual stretch film, standard machine film, or pre-stretched film, with the thickness and colour suited to the constraints of storage, handling, and transport.