Often people interchange the product names VCI Shrink Film and VCI Stretch Wrap, but they are two distinct packaging films. Both Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) protection-infused films possess different mechanical properties.
Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) stretch film
VCI stretch film tightly bundles items such as pallets. It’s similar to plastic wrap and has a sticky quality that allows it to bond with itself. Although it provides some water resistance, it doesn’t excel at keeping water completely out. The material is relatively thin and is typically layered several times to create sturdy, somewhat elastic packaging. It’s sold on rolls tailored for use on pallet-wrapping machines and also comes in smaller, handheld rolls, which are suitable for smaller packages. VCI stretch wrap is ideal for protecting open crates or layered pallets of parts. People often stretch wrap parts that are difficult to box or do not require crating due to their shape, such as wire coils and deep-drawn parts. VCI stretch film is an excellent way to secure and protect items and secure them in other packagings, such as pallets or cores.
Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) shrink wrap
VCI shrink wrap is a packaging film with properties that cause it to contract and conform to objects when heated. Special heat shrink guns shrink tape is available for this task. Shrink tunnel equipment designed to work with high-volume conveyor lines also are an option. A shrink-packed item has a taunt exterior that sheds water and other elements. The film is available in many gauges depending on the application; even films suitable for outdoor protection are available. VCI shrink film encapsulates items in a protective barrier and diffuses VCI into the package.
VCI shrink, and stretch films can include UV (Ultra Violet), ESD (Electro-Static Discharge), and high-strength blend additives. These corrosion prevention films work to diffuser Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors (VCI) into the packaging that protects for years when properly applied. Large packages should have additional VCI Diffusers inserted into the center of packages to ensure the VCI protection reaches all parts of the package. Contact ZERUST® today for more information on the meaning of VCI and the correct VCI packaging product for your application.
