Technical Aspects of Converting Extensible Films

Presented by Fred Gum, AET Films

Most flexible packaging films are elastic, some are more stretchable than others. The extensibility of these films poses challenges to the converter with respect to web handling and equipment maintenance so that quality converted webs can be made. Based on extensive OPP film experience, the fundamentals of film extensibility are discussed with respect to cause and effect. Web tension and web temperature can impact print repeat and lamination curl due to web snap back, depending on how much stress/strain the web experiences. Nip roll pressures and misaligned rollers also have significant potential for impacting the quality of a converted web, whether mono-web or lamination.