Flexible packaging plays a key role in today’s packaging industry. It’s portable, lightweight, and highly adaptable. In this blog post, we’ll delve into flexible packaging films. Discover their materials, how they’re made, and their unique traits. Also, learn how to choose the best flexible packaging film for your needs.
What Is Flexible Packaging?
Flexible packaging film, simply put, is a film made from non-rigid materials. It utilizes flexible materials such as film, plastic, paper, foil, or combinations thereof. It represents a versatile, adaptable packaging solution. Flexible packaging film has a wide range of applications and can be used to create various product types. For example:
Stand-Up Pouches
Currently, stand-up pouches are becoming increasingly popular. Their defining feature is the ability to stand upright on shelves. They seal well, keeping products safe and looking great on the shelf.
Squeeze Pouch
Squeeze pouches are squeezable containers. They are commonly used for storing liquids and pastes, preventing spills. They also allow for controlled dispensing and convenient use.
Flat-Pack Bag
Flat-pack bags are a common sight in daily life. Their flat shape allows them to be hung on display racks or laid flat on shelf surfaces. Their significant advantage is their compact size, which saves storage space.
Shrink Film
POF shrink film is a thermoplastic film. Made from polymeric plastics; it tightly shrinks around packaged products when heated. It is commonly used for packaging food and daily goods.
What Materials Are Used for Flexible Packaging Films?
Flexible packaging films utilize diverse materials. In production, we commonly encounter the following:
Plastics
Plastics constitute the largest category of raw materials for flexible packaging films. They offer good cost-effectiveness with suitable weight and strength. Plastics can be divided into many types, each with distinct properties and compositions.
- Polypropylene (PP, OPP, BOPP, CPP)
Polypropylene is the primary material for flexible packaging films. It features a high melting point and excellent durability.
PP is the most basic material here. It has great gas barrier properties, blocking water vapor effectively.
The other three are processed forms of PP: OPP is co-extruded oriented PP, BOPP is biaxially oriented PP, and CPP is cast PP. Their processing methods result in distinct performance characteristics. - Polyester (PET, OPET, BOPET)
Polyester is highly durable and cost-effective. Similar to PP, the base PET material can be enhanced through orientation. However, PET remains the most frequently used option. It creates a physical barrier on product surfaces. This stops external scratches and prevents internal punctures. - Polyethylene (PE, LDPE, HDPE)
Compared to other plastics, polyethylene has weaker physical properties. However, it offers good elasticity and strong tensile strength. It is often combined with other materials to enhance its properties. Specifically:
LDPE has lower durability and is commonly used in products like cling film and shopping bags.
HDPE has a higher density and greater durability. It is frequently used in items like plastic containers. - Ethylene-Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH)
On the one hand, this material offers high transparency and flexibility. Its excellent barrier properties prevent product oxidation, making it ideal for food packaging.
Also, its strong oxygen barrier lets you use inert gas flushing. This makes it perfect for delicate items like potato chips.
Nylon
Nylon is a ubiquitous material in daily life, renowned for its durability. Its high tensile strength and great tear resistance make it perfect for packaging sharp or fragile items.
Furthermore, nylon’s elasticity and shape-memory properties render it highly effective in vacuum-sealed packaging.
However, it’s important to note that nylon cannot block moisture or humidity, so it cannot be used as a moisture barrier.
Metals
- Metalized Barriers (METPET, VMPET, METOPP)
By applying a metal coating to PET or OPP film, we create what is known as metalized plastic film. It combines the properties of both metal and plastic film. It can block moisture and gases. It can also reflect light. They combine practicality with aesthetic appeal. The most common metalized films are METPET and VMPET, followed by METOPP. - Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foil is a common sight in kitchens and supermarkets. It is thin and highly flexible. As an excellent barrier layer, it plays a vital role in food packaging and protection. It prevents gas and moisture permeation, extending food shelf life. This maximizes food preservation, reduces waste and saves costs.
other
Beyond plastics and metals, other materials can be used for flexible packaging films.
- Paper
Paper is one of the most common materials in daily life. But did you know? Paper can serve as a barrier layer in flexible packaging?
First, it offers excellent UV resistance. It absorbs excess oils and salts, preventing product spoilage.
Second, paper is an eco-friendly material that can be recycled. Its aesthetic appeal also makes it highly favored in the market. - Ink
While commonly perceived as a medium for conveying product information, ink can also block light. When used well, it cuts packaging costs, saves storage space, and keeps products in great shape. - Cellulose (CLS)
Cellulose is an eco-friendly film material made from wood pulp, containing no plastic. As market awareness of environmental protection grows, cellulose applications are expanding.
It lacks barrier properties, so it’s typically used for printing, decoration, and marketing.
Its structure tears easily. This makes it great for uses like sachets that need tear-off features.
What are the advantages of flexible packaging films?
Flexible packaging films are widely favored in food, pharmaceutical, and beverage packaging due to their unique properties. As a packaging material, they offer numerous benefits:
Cost-saving: Flexible packaging films require fewer raw materials for production and feature faster manufacturing speeds. This significantly reduces costs for materials, labor, and energy, delivering high cost-effectiveness.
Convenient Storage and Transportation: Its compact structure and small volume minimize warehouse space requirements, enabling efficient use of storage areas. Typically requiring no secondary packaging, it facilitates high-efficiency transportation and distribution.
Eco-Friendly: Flexible packaging film reduces waste throughout its lifecycle. First, its production requires fewer raw materials. Second, its portability aids portion control when packaging food, extending shelf life and minimizing unnecessary waste. Finally, most flexible films are recyclable.
Marketing and Promotion: The smooth surface of flexible packaging film allows for printing patterns and logos. We support customized production to help enhance your brand’s appeal.
Extended Shelf Life: Our high-performance flexible packaging films effectively block moisture, dust, and oxygen. They protect contents from environmental impacts and transportation stress, thereby extending product shelf life.
| Product | Shelf Life Before Packaging | Shelf Life After Flexible Film Packaging |
|---|---|---|
| Pork | 3 days | 20 days |
| Cucumber | 3 days | 14 days |
| Broccoli | 6 days | 20 days |
| Cheese | 190 days | 280 days |
| Banana | 5 days | 36 days |
What are the differences between various flexible packaging films?
LDPE
LDPE film is the most widely used flexible packaging material. It offers flexibility and impact resistance. Additionally, it resists chemical corrosion and is highly durable. Meeting food safety standards and being recyclable, it is commonly used in the food packaging industry.
LLDPE
LLDPE is a material derived from LDPE through processing. It is highly robust with significantly enhanced flexibility compared to LDPE. It offers superior impact resistance and protection against tearing and punctures. It is more durable and provides better protective performance.
BOPA
BOPA, also known as biaxially oriented polyamide, possesses excellent tensile strength. It is highly durable with strong puncture resistance. Its excellent gas barrier properties effectively isolate gases and chemicals. Most notably, it offers high transparency and visibility.
BOPET
BOPET is produced by biaxially stretching PET. It features strong tensile strength, high reflectivity, and exceptional transparency. It provides electrical insulation and gas barrier properties. Heat-resistant, it is commonly used for food packaging and protection.
BOPE
BOPE is a polymer film. It is cost-effective and economical. It offers excellent moisture resistance. Additionally, it possesses high heat seal strength and durability. It is suitable for packaging various products.
Applications of Flexible Packaging Films
Flexible packaging films are widely used across various industries due to their low cost and high performance.
| Plastic Film Type | Common Uses |
|---|---|
| LDPE Film | Produce bags, garbage bags, food packaging, inner layer of composite flexible packaging, suitable for various industries |
| LLDPE Film | Stretch film, carpet backing, pipe protection film |
| BOPA Film | Vegetables, medical devices, perishable products |
| BOPP Film | Printing, packaging, outer layer of composite films |
| BOPET Film | Food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, personal care products |
| PET | High-temperature packaging, retort/boil-in-bag packaging, printing substrate |
| PA (Nylon Film) | Oily foods, meat products, fried foods, retort/boil-in-bag packaging |
| CPP | Gift packaging, retort/boil-in-bag packaging, meat packaging |
| Metallized Film | Composite packaging, decorative packaging, aluminum foil replacement |
What factors should be considered when selecting the right flexible packaging film?
With numerous common types of flexible packaging films available, how do you choose the right one for your needs? Before making a decision, consider the following factors:
- Intended Application: Different film materials offer distinct properties. Select a product with characteristics that align with your specific requirements.
- Physical Properties: This is a critical factor. Test the film’s physical performance. Check its tensile strength, waterproof properties, and gas barrier properties. This ensures it adequately protects your products.
- Service Life: This refers to the film’s ability to maintain stable performance. A longer service life means your products receive protection for an extended period.
- Availability: Consider the ease of replenishing film stock and the lead time for order fulfillment.
- Cost Budget: Select film products that align with your budget expectations. Ensure your requirements are met cost-effectively.
If you’re unsure how to choose, feel free to consult us directly. We’ll provide tailored recommendations based on your specific needs.
Why Choose BestY Pack?
BestY Pack is China’s professional flexible packaging film manufacturer. We offer diverse types of flexible packaging films. Our company holds ISO 9001 certification, and all film products meet international standards. With more than 20 years in flexible packaging, we use top production methods. This allows us to create films that meet your needs perfectly.
Our products feature exceptional physical properties and an extended service life. We offer ODM/OEM manufacturing services. We guarantee timely delivery and quick solutions for all your needs.
FAQ
How does flexible packaging film compare to packaging bags?
Flexible packaging film and packaging bags differ mainly in their materials and how easy they are to carry. Flexible packaging film is typically made from flexible polymer materials. Packaging bags, however, utilize materials such as aluminum foil, kraft paper, and plastic. Packaging bags are constructed from sturdier materials. In terms of portability, flexible packaging film is lighter and easier to carry than packaging bags.
What colors are available for flexible packaging film?
Flexible packaging film comes in diverse colors such as red, blue, and yellow. Its surface supports printing, enabling personalized customization. Print product designs and company logos. This boosts product uniqueness and helps meet marketing goals.
How is the quality of flexible packaging film tested?
Multiple tests assess flexible packaging film quality.
First is tensile strength testing. Stretching the film ensures it resists tearing and prevents leakage during packaging.
Next is barrier testing. This verifies the film’s ability to resist dust, moisture, and external light exposure.
Then comes oxidation testing. This checks if the packaging keeps oxygen out. It measures how well it protects the contents from oxygen exposure.
Vibration testing checks if the packaging bag can handle friction and impact during transport.
What thicknesses and sizes are available for flexible packaging films?
Flexible packaging films come in small, medium, and large sizes. Due to their excellent flexibility, they can be shaped into various forms. Specifically, standard thicknesses for flexible packaging films are 80, 100, and 120 microns. 80-micron film works well for packaging light items, like seasoning packets. However, it is not rigid enough for sharp objects. 100-micron packaging film balances cost and durability, making it suitable for most products. 120-micron products offer high strength and are ideal for premium product packaging.
Comparison of Flexible and Rigid Packaging
Generally, rigid packaging is sturdier than flexible packaging. Rigid packaging materials include complex substances like metal, glass, cardboard, and rigid plastics. Flexible packaging primarily uses flexible polymers. Rigid packaging is often used for products needing strong protection. It offers better safety than flexible packaging. Consequently, it carries a higher cost than flexible packaging. However, rigid packaging lacks the flexibility and functionality of flexible packaging films.
Hello, customers
My name is Jack Yu. I am the Business Manager at BestY Pack Plastic Products. My areas of expertise include film packaging, cold chain transportation packaging, and shrink products. Additionally, our factory manufactures protective gloves, and I can provide you with professional solutions to help you increase your market share and enhance consumer trust.
Email: ﾠjackyu@bestypack.com
Tel: +86 18368319351