Wha’s Thermoforming Film? What’s it used for?

Thermoforming is a highly efficient technology that uses pressure forming or vacuum forming methods to transform films or sheets into complex mould designs. The packaging industry harnesses the power of this thermoforming film packaging process to produce a variety of packaging solutions such as containers, tubs and speciality food barrier films. These films are ideally suited to encapsulate both consumable and non-consumable products in the food and medical industries. A wide range of food products, from dairy and meat to seafood, fresh produce and dried foods such as chocolate, can be encapsulated in multilayer co-extruded flexible barrier films. In addition, PA/EVOH-based 7-, 9- and 11-layer thermoforming films further enhance its versatility for a wide range of industrial packaging needs. This makes it an excellent choice for storing hard and soft food and non-food items.

Types and applications of thermoforming films

There are various types of thermoforming films produced, such as

• Thermoforming Flexible packaging films
• PA/EVOH based 7,9, 11 layer thermoforming films

Taking into account variations in dimensions such as width, thickness, substrate and sealing layers, thermoformed film design types can be tailored to specific industry needs. Their applicability ranges from advanced automated systems to customised, individualised packaging designs, offering a wide range of options for the packaging of foodstuffs and rigid items. High barrier and puncture resistance greatly enhance packaging reliability and practicality.

Industrial usage of thermo films

The following are some of the important industrial usage of thermoforming films

Thermoforming in Food Packaging - Its puncture resistance and minimal leakage capabilities have made it a key player in the food packaging industry. In addition, thermoformed films retain their strength at freezing temperatures, making them one of the premium packaging solutions for refrigerated foods such as red meat and cheese.

Thermoforming packaging for Medical industry– its strong mechanical properties and moisture barrier property finds its best usage for packaging sterile medical products such as medicines and medical equipments.

Advantages of using Thermoforming

The packaging industry has benefited greatly from thermoforming films. Some of the useful benefits are

• Bulk packaging option can be availed for food and medical industry
• Possess moisture barrier property
• Best optical property in terms of base forming films
• Flexible option for packing small portions of retail outlets
• It gives a clean and hygienic look when things are packed
• Puncture resistant and hence the package reliability can be preserved
• Best for packing sharp edged products

Conclusion

Among the many different types of flexible packaging films, thermoforming film is one of the best choices for obtaining moisture-resistant and reliable packaging. It is also a cost-effective packaging option.