Introduction
Bubble film, also known as bubble wrap, is a type of packaging material that is popularly used to protect fragile items during transportation. It consists of small, cushion-like bubbles that are filled with air and surrounded by a tough, plastic film. In this article, we will explore what bubble film is made of, how it is manufactured, and other interesting facts about this ubiquitous packaging material.
What is bubble film made of?
Bubble film is primarily made of two main components: polyethylene and air. Polyethylene is a type of thermoplastic polymer that is widely used in the packaging industry due to its durability, flexibility, and resistance to moisture, chemicals, and impact. It is also recyclable, which makes bubble film an eco-friendly option for packaging.
The air-filled bubbles in bubble film are created by a process called co-extrusion, which involves multiple layers of polyethylene being extruded simultaneously, with one layer being blown into a bubble shape. The trapped air inside the bubbles provides cushioning and protection for fragile items, making bubble film an ideal packaging material for delicate objects such as glasses, ceramics, electronics, and artworks.
The manufacturing process
The manufacturing process of bubble film can be broken down into the following steps:
1. Raw material preparation: The first step in the manufacturing process is to prepare the raw material, which involves melting the polyethylene resin pellets and mixing them with additives such as stabilizers, colorants, and anti-static agents.
2. Extrusion: Once the raw material is prepared, it is fed into an extrusion machine, which heats and melts the plastic and forms it into a thin, flat sheet of film.
3. Bubble formation: The flat sheet of film is then fed into a second machine, which blows air into the plastic using a bubble-forming die and creates the signature bubbles.
4. Cooling and trimming: After the bubbles are formed, the plastic is cooled and trimmed to the desired length and width.
5. Winding: The finished bubble film is wound onto a roll and is ready to be used as a packaging material.
Types of bubble film
Bubble film comes in various forms, each with its own thickness, size, and features. Some common types of bubble film include:
1. Standard bubble film: This is the most common type of bubble film and features bubbles that are around 3/16 inch in diameter. It is used for general packaging purposes and provides basic cushioning and protection.
2. Small bubble film: This type of bubble film features smaller bubbles that are around 1/8 inch in diameter. It is ideal for protecting smaller or more delicate items.
3. Large bubble film: This type of bubble film features larger bubbles that are around 1 inch in diameter. It is used for heavy-duty packaging and provides greater cushioning and shock absorption.
4. Anti-static bubble film: This type of bubble film is designed to protect sensitive electronic equipment from static electricity. It is coated with a special material that dissipates static charges and prevents damage to the electronics.
Other interesting facts about bubble film
- Bubble film was invented in 1957 by two engineers, Marc Chavannes and Al Fielding, who were trying to create a textured wallpaper.
- Bubble film was first used as a packaging material in the 1960s and became popular in the 1970s due to its unique cushioning and protective properties.
- Bubble film can be recycled along with other types of plastic film, but it should be separated from other materials such as paper and cardboard.
- Bubble film is sometimes used as a stress reliever, as the popping sound that the bubbles make is satisfying to many people.
Conclusion
Bubble film is a versatile and reliable packaging material that has become a staple in the packaging industry. Its unique cushioning properties and eco-friendly nature make it an ideal choice for protecting fragile items during transportation, storage, and shipping. With its wide range of sizes and types, bubble film is a versatile product that is here to stay.
