What Is Floatable Shrink Film?

Glance at the beverage shelf and you will come across bottles with smooth labels that curve along all sides. Such wraps are composed of various types of shrink film. But here’s the problem: not all films are easy to recycle. That’s where floatable shrink film steps in. It is created to simplify the recycling process or make it cleaner and more efficient.

In this guide, you’ll learn what floatable shrinkage film is, its characteristics, the benefits it brings, where it’s used and how to pick the right one. Read on to learn more.

Definition of Floatable Shrink Film

Floatable shrink film is a special type of shrink sleeve label film made with a density of less than one. That means it floats in water. Why does that matter? Among the recycling processes, PET bottles sink and the floatable film rises to the surface. This division simplifies the label removal process on bottles and the recycled plastic remains uncontaminated.

The film works like other shrink films. It wraps tightly around containers when heat is applied. The contrast is in what follows afterwards. Rather than remaining intact in the form of the plastic bottle, it disintegrates easily in water. It is this special quality that makes it so significant in sustainable packaging.

Characteristics of Floatable Shrink Film

So what makes floatable films stand out from other types of shrink sleeves? Here are the main characteristics:

• Low density: Always floats in water, unlike heavier films.
• High clarity: Shows off bright colors and detailed graphics clearly.
• Strong shrink performance: Fits snugly on bottles and cans with smooth coverage.
• Easy separation: When recycling, PET flakes are easy to separate and streams of materials are clean.
• Flexibility: It is applicable on a huge range of bottles, especially the packaging of beverages.

These traits make it both functional for brands and practical for recyclers.

Advantages of Floatable Shrink Film

The use of floatable shrink film has obvious business and environmental advantages.

• Helps recycling: The film can be easily separated in water. It preserves the PET recycling and avoids contamination.
• Grows the brand value: The companies demonstrate that they are conscious of the environment and their customers like their decision.
• Protects product design: It provides the equivalent of PETG shrink film or PVC films in terms of vibrancy in print.
• Multipurpose application: Works on containers that have curves or edges and other odd shapes.
• Cost efficacy: Minimizes waste during recycling and this will save resources in the long run.

In short, floatable films combine high performance with sustainability.

Applications of Floatable Shrink Film

Where do you see floatable shrinkage film in action? Mostly in industries where PET bottles dominate.

• Beverages: Floatable shrink sleeves are commonly used in beverages such as soda or juice and energy drinks. They ensure that labels are sharp and recyclable.
• Personal care: They can be used to cut down on waste by using bottles of shampoo and conditioners without losing their style.
• Home goods: PET bottles containing household cleaners and sprays also use such films.
• International exports: Businesses that develop products exported to nations where recycling policies exist adopt floatable films to comply with the regulations.

Brands choose floatable shrink film not just for looks but also to meet growing environmental standards.

Environmental Benefits

This is where floatable shrinkage film makes a real difference. Regular shrink films often stay stuck to PET bottles during recycling. That mix contaminates the plastic and lowers its value. Floatable films change the game by separating cleanly in water.

• Recycle cleaner streams: The labels are separated and PET flakes are left to be reused. Recyclers are able to produce plastic of better quality with less effort.

• Less plastic waste: A higher number of bottles are recycled properly. It means there are fewer that end up in landfills or combustion units.

• Less carbon footprint: Easy separation conserves energy at recycling facilities. Use of less energy leads to a reduction in the number of emissions.

• Better compliance: It is now being advocated by many countries that there should be greater compliance with recycling. Brands can comply with these regulations through floatable films, with their products not having to be redesigned.

• Stronger brand trust: Shoppers notice when a brand takes steps to protect the planet. Using eco-friendly films shows real commitment.

With plastic waste rising worldwide, floatable shrink film offers a smart solution. It keeps packaging effective while supporting a cleaner environment.

How to Select the Right Floatable Shrink Film

Not every floatable shrinkage film works the same way. The right decision will be based upon how you package, what you offer and what standards you must meet. The following are some of the things to consider prior to making a decision:

▶1. Product shape and size: Tall, curved, or oddly shaped bottles need films with strong shrinkage. Simple shapes may do fine with standard options.

▶2. Printing style: If you need bold designs or fine details, go for films with high transparency and smooth surfaces. Clear films make colors pop and graphics stay sharp.

▶3. Sustainability goals: Some films meet APR or European recycling guidelines. Pick one that matches the rules in your target market.

▶4. Performance in transit: Consider how your products travel. Films that resist scratches and scuffs are better for goods shipped long distances.

▶5. Production setup: Check if the film works with your current shrink tunnels and application machines. Choosing the wrong type may lead to wrinkles or poor fit.

▶6. Partner support: Work with suppliers who don’t just sell film but also offer guidance, testing, and after-sales support. Companies like DGN Film can help you match the right film to your line.

When you weigh these factors, you get more than a nice label. You get packaging that performs well, keeps recycling clean, and builds trust with your customers.

Conclusion

Floatable shrink film is more than just another packaging material. It is a smart solution that keeps bottles reusable and brands green. It offers such features as low density, high clarity and smooth performance and it is rapidly becoming the preferable choice to companies that desire to balance performance and responsibility.

Looking for packaging that combines quality and sustainability? Trust DGN Film. From PETG to floatable shrink films, DGN Film delivers solutions that protect your products, boost your brand, and support recycling goals. Contact us today to explore the right shrink film for your business.

FAQs

Question 1: Why is floatable shrink film important for recycling?

Answer: It is less dense than water and thus it floats in the process of recycling. This enables it to detach itself from PET bottle flakes maintaining recycled plastic as clean and high quality.

Question 2: Can floatable shrink film replace regular shrink film in all uses?

Answer: Not always. Although it is rather effective with the PET bottles and environment-friendly packing, certain industries might still prefer PETG or PVC due to its cost or durability. The floatable films are preferable when the concerns are recycling and sustainability.