Shrink Film Labels Explained

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Green White Labeled Bottle Near Brown White Labeled Bottle
Credit: pexels.com, Green White Labeled Bottle Near Brown White Labeled Bottle

Shrink film labels are a type of label that uses heat to shrink and fit tightly around a container, making them ideal for products that require a snug fit.

They can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic and paper, and come in different sizes and shapes to fit specific products.

One of the key benefits of shrink film labels is that they are highly durable and resistant to scratches and fading, making them a great choice for products that will be handled frequently.

Shrink film labels are also easy to apply, requiring only a heat source to activate the adhesive and cause the label to shrink.

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What Are Labels?

Labels are a type of packaging solution that provides 360-degree coverage of a product.

They can be applied in various ways, including by hand or using machinery.

Types of Label Film

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is the dominant film in the packaging industry, used about 70% of the time, and works well for tamper-evident banding and shrink labeling applications.

Credit: youtube.com, Custom Printed PET Plastic Heat Wrap Shrink Sleeve Label Film For Bottles

Its performance characteristics are well understood, and it's generally less expensive than other films.

However, PVC is not accepted by all consumer products companies due to environmental and sustainability standards.

Ti's range of shrink sleeve films includes a low-density polyolefin high-TD shrink clear film as well as low and medium MD shrink films available in clear and white voided versions.

PET/PETG film is increasing in popularity due to its high level of clarity and potential for down gauging film, thus reducing cost and increasing the number of sleeves on a roll.

It's perceived as environmentally friendly in comparison to other films, as it's more compatible with PET recycling systems.

SHAPE360 TDS films are certified as recyclable by Interseroh, APR, and EPBP, making them a great option for companies looking to increase recyclability.

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Pvc (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is the dominant film in the packaging industry, used about 70% of the time.

It works well for both tamper evident banding and shrink labeling applications.

PVC is generally less expensive than other films, making it a cost-effective option.

However, it's not accepted by all consumer products companies due to environmental and sustainability standards.

It should not be considered recyclable.

(Pet/Petg) Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol

Credit: youtube.com, Packaging Polymers 101 PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) – Welcome to Good Information

PET/PETG film is a popular choice for its high level of clarity, making it ideal for applications where visual appeal is crucial.

Its potential for down gauging film has reduced costs and increased the number of sleeves on a roll, making it a cost-effective option.

PET/PETG is well-suited for large diameter bottles with small diameter necks, thanks to its sufficient shrink memory.

This film is also perceived as environmentally friendly, as it's more compatible with PET recycling systems.

PET/PETG requires lower storage temperature and has a low shrink force, making it easier to handle and store.

Crystallizable PET

Crystallizable PET is a game-changer in the world of label films.

CPET, or Crystallizable Polyethylene terephthalate, is a type of shrink film that's 100 percent recyclable with bottle flakes. Its excellent moisture barrier qualities make it a great choice for companies looking to reduce their environmental footprint.

This type of film has minimum vertical shrink and good machine and transverse shrink percentages, making it a versatile option for various applications. Its recyclability is a major selling point, as it can be reused and reduced waste.

Sustainable Label Films

Three Savalan wine bottles arranged on a table, showcasing labels and brand.
Credit: pexels.com, Three Savalan wine bottles arranged on a table, showcasing labels and brand.

Sustainable advances in shrink label films are just one example of Taghleef's Dynamic Cycle approach to promoting a more circular economy.

Shrink sleeves are an eco-friendly labeling option because they don't adhere to the container using adhesive, allowing for easy removal and more convenient recycling.

The floating shrink film label is an excellent choice for businesses looking to provide more eco-friendly packaging to their customers, as consumers are more conscious about sustainable products than ever before.

The optical clarity of the product is preserved with this film, maintaining shelf appeal.

Some specific benefits of this film include meeting APR ink and film guidelines for the PET recycling process, making recycling with polyolefin containers possible, and having less complex How2Recycle labeling since the sleeve doesn't need to be removed for recycling.

Here are some key benefits of using shrink sleeve labels created with TOPAS plastic resins:

  • Easy recycling after use
  • Possible recycling with polyolefin containers
  • Less complex How2Recycle labeling

Recycle-Friendly Shrink Labels with Perfect Shrinkage offer a family of crystal clear TOPAS COC resins, allowing for precise control over shrink curve and low shrink stress, ideal for delicate or down-gauged applications.

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Labeling Process

Credit: youtube.com, Shrink Label Film | Shrink Film | Label Film | Shrink Wrap | Heat Shrink Label

The labeling process for shrink film labels involves applying the label around a container, which is done by running products through a sleeve applicator that can control and orient the package properly, particularly on non-round containers, as well as the sleeve and its graphics.

The sleeve applicator plays a crucial role in this step, ensuring that the label is applied correctly and evenly.

To finish the labeling process, the label is then shrunk onto the package using a shrink tunnel, which applies heat in various ways, including convection hot air, infrared radiant, or steam, or a combination of these.

How Labeling Works

The labeling process involves applying a shrink sleeve around a container, which is then shrunk to conform tightly around the product.

Shrink sleeve labeling is a two-step process that starts with applying the label around the container. This is done using a sleeve applicator that controls and orients the package properly.

Plastic Film Strip with Images
Credit: pexels.com, Plastic Film Strip with Images

The sleeve is typically a heat-sensitive tube-shaped plastic film with openings on the top and bottom. Heat is applied to the plastic until it shrinks and compresses to the product's shape.

There are different types of heat used to shrink the label, including convection hot air, infrared radiant, or steam. The type of heat used can affect the speed and efficiency of the process.

The heat causes the label to decrease in diameter, making a snug fit against the bottle. This process is essential for creating a secure and tamper-evident label.

Shrink sleeve labeling is commonly used for bottles, but it can also be applied to non-round containers. The sleeve applicator plays a crucial role in ensuring the label is applied correctly and evenly.

What is a Curve?

A curve in the labeling process refers to the shrink curve, which is a unique property of each film substrate used for shrink labels.

The shrink curve is determined by the type of resin and other components, such as plasticizer, pigment, and the type and amount of ink coverage.

Credit: youtube.com, Tutorial 7: Labeling curves and points

It charts the percentage of shrink that occurs to the label at specific temperatures over specific time periods when measured in a controlled environment.

The path of the curve indicates at what temperature a material begins to shrink, the rate at which it shrinks, and when and at what temperature it reaches its maximum shrink percentage.

Ink coverage can actually inhibit shrink, reducing it somewhat, as it reaches its maximum shrink percentage.

Machine Direction (MD)

Machine direction shrink can cause sleeves to shorten in height, lifting from the base of the container, and can range from 0 - 7%.

Films can grow in the machine direction at certain temperatures, causing the sleeve cut length to elongate. This effect has to be controlled to ensure acceptable results.

Machine direction shrink can cause quality issues if the film chosen is not well suited for the specific application.

Consider reading: Stretch Wrap for Machine

Label Supplier

Taghleef Industries offers SHAPE360 TDS, a shrink sleeve label film supplier that helps you redesign your labels for maximum shelf-appeal.

Credit: youtube.com, Introduction of "shrink sleeve label printing" with VJ-628MP & MP 31 ink | MUTOH

Their labels are designed to be attractive and lightweight, making them perfect for eye-catching packaging.

With SHAPE360 TDS, you can create fully recyclable labels that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

This innovative technology allows you to reDESIGN your labels with ease, giving your product a unique and appealing look.

The fully recyclable design of their labels is a great selling point, especially in a market where sustainability is becoming increasingly important.

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Types of Products

There are several types of products that can benefit from shrink film labels.

Standard shrink sleeves are often used for individual products, providing a full 360-degree wrap around the item.

Multi-pack bands are designed for products packaged in groups, such as bottles of soda or energy drinks.

Household Products

Household products are a great place to start, and for good reason. Polyolefin shrink sleeve labels are perfect for household cleaners and detergents because they have excellent chemical and moisture resistance.

These labels can withstand the tough conditions of household cleaners and detergents, ensuring that the product information remains clear and legible. They're also recyclable, which is a big plus for consumers who care about the environment.

Polyolefin shrink sleeve labels can also enhance the appearance of capped, trigger spray, and squeeze containers, making them look more attractive on store shelves. This can be a big deal for companies that want to stand out in a crowded market.

Expand your knowledge: Avery Labels for Wine Bottles

Types of Products

Close-up of a fresh catfish wrapped in transparent plastic against a dark background. Seafood photography.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of a fresh catfish wrapped in transparent plastic against a dark background. Seafood photography.

Depending on your reason for implementing a product, you can choose from various types, such as standard products, multi-pack bands, or preform & neck bands.

Standard products are the most common type, offering a simple and cost-effective solution for your needs.

Multi-pack bands are designed for products that need to be packaged in groups, making them ideal for items like bottles or cans.

Preform & neck bands are used for products with a specific neck shape or size, ensuring a secure and snug fit.

For more insights, see: Vacuum Pack Bags Commercial

Why Do Bottles Need?

Bottles need shrink sleeves because they don't always have a perfectly cylindrical shape. This can cause the labeling to look sloppy.

The demand for shaped or contoured bottles is growing, which means more bottles need shrink sleeves. Shaped bottles tend to attract consumer attention and boost sales.

Sleeve labels now account for about 20% of all label film sales worldwide. That's a significant increase from just a few years ago.

Benefits and Features

Credit: youtube.com, Shrink Sleeve Labeling Explained (featuring AFM)

Shrink film labels offer a range of benefits that make them an attractive choice for businesses looking to provide eco-friendly packaging to their customers.

One of the key advantages of shrink film labels is their ability to preserve the optical clarity of the product, maintaining shelf appeal and making them stand out in stores.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, shrink film labels also offer excellent machine and graphics performance, making them a reliable choice for businesses that need to produce high-quality labels quickly.

To meet the growing demand for sustainable products, many businesses are turning to shrink film labels made with eco-friendly TOPAS plastics. These labels are designed to be recycled, reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact of packaging.

Some specific benefits of shrink film labels include:

  • The optical clarity of the product is preserved, maintaining shelf appeal
  • Excellent machine and graphics performance of films from several leading label suppliers
  • APR ink and film guidelines for the PET recycling process are met
  • Recycling with polyolefin containers is possible
  • How2Recycle labeling is less complex, since sleeve need not be removed for recycling

Recyclable and Eco-Friendly

Shrink film labels are a great option for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact. They don't use adhesive, making them easy to remove and recycle.

Credit: youtube.com, How 100% Recycled Shrink Film is Made

Many consumers are now more conscious about sustainable products than ever before, and sourcing labels made with eco-friendly TOPAS plastics is a great way to keep customers happy. This is especially true for businesses that want to provide more eco-friendly packaging to their customers.

Shrink sleeves made from TOPAS plastic resins are designed to be easily recyclable after use. This helps businesses maintain sustainable practices and offer consumers a range of sustainable products.

Recyclable shrink sleeves can be sent to many plastic recyclers as long as they're made of recyclable material, such as TOPAS COC polymer in combination with polyolefins. This makes it easier for businesses to reduce their environmental impact.

Here are some benefits of using recyclable and eco-friendly shrink film labels:

  • The optical clarity of the product is preserved, maintaining shelf appeal
  • Excellent machine and graphics performance of films from several leading label suppliers
  • APR ink and film guidelines for the PET recycling process are met
  • Recycling with polyolefin containers is possible
  • How2Recycle labeling is less complex, since sleeves need not be removed for recycling

This means that businesses can provide more eco-friendly packaging to their customers without sacrificing quality or performance.

Why Choose Labels?

Shrink film labels offer 360-degree product coverage, making them a great choice for unique product shapes.

Credit: youtube.com, Why Use Shrink Label Films?

They conform to these shapes, maximizing branding opportunities.

Shrink film labels are durable and can provide tamper-evident protection.

Moisture and abrasion resistance are also key benefits of these labels.

By choosing shrink film labels, you can stand out in a highly competitive market.

These labels are being rapidly embraced as a labeling option due to their versatility and effectiveness.

Standard and Templates

Standard and templates are a great place to start when it comes to designing your shrink film labels.

You can save time by using free templates that have been set up with proper bleeds and margins, ensuring your print job turns out accurate.

These templates are available in various file types and sizes, making it easy to get started.

Common uses for standard shrink sleeves include chapstick and lip balm tubes, sauce bottles, food containers, coffee and coffee creamer bottles, and beverage bottles.

Here are some common items that can be wrapped with standard shrink sleeves:

  • Chapstick and Lip Balm Tubes
  • Sauce Bottles
  • Food Containers
  • Coffee and Coffee Creamer Bottles
  • Beverage Bottles

Standard

Woman Writing Label on Box while Sitting Down
Credit: pexels.com, Woman Writing Label on Box while Sitting Down

Standard packaging options are often the best choice for a wide range of products.

Standard shrink sleeves offer all-around coverage of your product, making them a popular choice. They're easy to apply and provide a professional finish.

One common use for standard shrink sleeves is on chapstick and lip balm tubes. They're also great for sauce bottles and food containers.

You can also find standard shrink sleeves on coffee and coffee creamer bottles, as well as beverage bottles.

Here are some common uses for standard shrink sleeves:

  • Chapstick and Lip Balm Tubes
  • Sauce Bottles
  • Food Containers
  • Coffee and Coffee Creamer Bottles
  • Beverage Bottles

Templates

Using templates can save you a significant amount of time in the design process.

Our free templates are set up with proper bleeds and margins, which ensures your print job turns out accurate.

You can download a template by selecting a file type and clicking on the corresponding size.

Clara Donnelly

Writer

Clara Donnelly is a versatile writer with a passion for crafting engaging content across various industries. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, she brings complex topics to life through her writing. Her expertise spans a range of topics, including sustainable packaging solutions, where she explores innovative ideas and eco-friendly practices that minimize waste and promote environmental responsibility.

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