Clients often inquire about the difference between bag materials. In the following paragraphs we’ll describe the five types most widely available:

Polyethylene (PE, HDPE, LDPE) is widely used throughout the industry. This ubiquitous material is inexpensive, strong and versatile. Sealers used to seal PE must be equipped with Teflon curtains, bands, strips or coatings, as the plastic will melt and stick onto heated areas. High speed machines such as band sealers typically come equipped with cooling mechanisms which allow PE to retain some of its strength as it becomes soft and may stretch when hot. Applications where PE bagging is used include car parts, printed materials, tools, and grains. Polyethylene can be made into a Shrink film, and is often used to replace costly cardboard boxes for product transportation.

Polyvinylchloride (PVC) is an inexpensive and widely available product. Although PVC can become slightly corrosive to sealer parts during the long term, it does not require Teflon to be sealed. PVC bags have excellent presence and shine. PVC may not be adequate for all applications as it could be toxic. Ask you bag supplier for compatibility between these bags and your products. Candles are often packaged with PVC. Shrink PVC is available although it is being replaced by Shrink Polyolefin.

Cellophane: A bright, transparent, and biodegradable material made of cellulose. Used mostly for food applications. Although still in use, it that has largely been eclipsed by BOPP.

Polypropylene (PP, BOPP, MOPP, OPP): An excellent packaging material used for a large variety of packaging applications. In its most generic form it can be found as a clear material and it’s often referred to as Cellophane (incorrectly). Polypropylene is often used in laminations. Spices and jewelry are products often packaged in Polypropylene bags.

Laminations: Consist of two or more layers of material, with the inner layer made of thermosealable material. They are engineered and manufactured to offer a variety of uses like light protection, gas impermeability, printing, puncture resistance, etc. Laminations may be more expensive than other materials but offer very specialized, application based usability. They are a must for products that require specialty packaging, and in highly automated packaging processes. Examples of products often packaged with laminations are Potato Chips, Coffee, Candy Bars, and Microprocesors.