1. The selection and quality of the shrink wrap material
2. The technique or procedure used to apply the shrink wrap
3. The capability of the person performing the wrapping process

Selecting Shrink Wrap

Selecting the correct film for a particular application is important. For example, a boat being transferred from Seattle to Florida during the winter needs a wrap tough enough to withstand the winter elements and highway speeds. On the other hand, a boat stored outside requires protection from the weather and ultraviolet sunlight.

Therefore, how the shrink wrap is manufactured plays a critical role in selecting the correct film for the job.

UVI (ultra-violet inhibitors) protects the shrink film against deterioration from the sun. For example, storage in Florida or Arizona requires a higher UVI rating than that in the northern states.

For transporting, the wrap must have elasticity and be puncture resistant. The EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate) content is a measure of the films durability.

Color is also important. White shrink film reflects the sun, keeps the interior cooler and is used mostly in the South. Blue film absorbs the rays from the sun, keeping the interior warmer and is used in cooler climates. Clear wrap is used mostly for interior storage for product display.

Application Technique

The technique or procedure used to attach shrink wrap to an item or product is determined by a number of factors. The size and shape of an item or product. If shipping, how far and under what conditions. If being stored, how long will the item/product be stored and will it be inside or outside.

Shrink wrap for large items such as boats or equipment can be as wide as 40' and up to 10 ml thick. Application (shrinking) is usually done with a propane fired heat gun. Smaller items can be easily handled with a 2 ml shrink wrap and applied with a small electric heat gun. In some cases, securing large, unsupported areas may require tapes or straps in addition to heat shrinking.

What it all boils down to is this. The right shrink wrap depends on the geographic location, weather, use and application technique. At Protective Products, we'll help you choose the right shrink wrap product for your job.

Training

Shrink wrapping should also be done in a safe manner. Plan the process so that the person is aware of the dangers of propane fuel and knows the correct usage of the heat gun. The average shrink film has a "shrink temperature" of 275° to 350°. Be sure the item being wrapped will not be damaged by the "shrinking" heat and that the work place presents no safety hazards.