Blown vs. Cast Stretch Film | What You Need to Know

Stretch film comes in varying gauges, colors and can be used in numerous applications. The main variable and starting point for stretch films is blown versus cast.

While I won’t bore you too much with the details behind how they are manufactured, here are the basics. Blown stretch film, also known as blown stretch wrap, is created by blowing heated resin out vertically into a bubble. The bubble is then transformed into rolls while it is cooled by the surrounding air. Cast stretch film, also known as cast stretch wrap is created by feeding a sheet of heated resin along with a rolling path with chilled rollers. The cooling solidifies the film, and it is made into large rolls.

So, now that you know how stretch wrap is produced, what do the difference in films provide you, the end user, in terms of features and benefits?

Cast stretch wrap has a clear, glossy finish allowing RFID and other scanning technology to be used with it while blown is hazy and dull. Cast stretch film unwinds much quieter than blown and is also easier to stretch and have the gauge controlled.

As you can see, both films have their benefits and hindrances.

So, which stretch film fits your application?

Factors to keep in mind include:

1. What type of machine is being used, if not applied by hand?
2. What kind of load is being wrapped?
3. Where does your skid go after leaving your dock?
4. How many variants of load does your facility wrap?

Does your distributor ask you these types of questions and provide solutions based off of your answers?

Request a free needs analysis from the industrial packaging experts at FlexPAC. Our Solutions Providers will ask you the above questions and more and perform tests to determine just how much film you are using and how much it is costing you per application. Having troubles with punctures or products getting damaged? That means it’s time to reevaluate your film type and usage.

If you are currently purchasing films based solely on where you can find the cheapest price per roll, you may be surprised regarding the kind of information and insight that can be gained by going through our evaluation process.