Overview of DeWAL Low Density Films

DeWAL Industries manufactures a variety of low density polyethylene (LDPE) films for industrial and consumer applications. These films provide strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance at a lower cost than other plastic films.

Some key features of DeWAL’s LDPE films:

• Low density between 0.910-0.940 g/cm3
• High impact strength and puncture resistance
• Good tensile strength and elongation
• Excellent chemical resistance
• Heat sealability
• Moisture barrier properties
• Transparency and gloss

Applications of Low Density Films

DeWAL’s LDPE films have a wide range of uses across many industries:

Packaging

• Food packaging bags and liners
• Medical packaging for devices and pharmaceuticals
• Protective packaging for electronics and industrial parts

Construction

• Vapor barriers and damp proof membranes
• Weather resistant films and sheeting
• Drop cloths and temporary floor/surface protection

Agriculture

• Greenhouse films
• Mulch films
• Temporary pond and dam liners

Film Type	Thickness Range	Key Properties	Typical Uses
LDPE Film	1-10 mil	Strength, flexibility, puncture resistance, low cost	General packaging, food packaging, medical packaging
Laminated LDPE Film	1-10 mil	Enhanced strength, barrier resistance, aesthetics	Packaging for chemicals, pharmaceuticals, electronics
Coextruded LDPE Film	5-30 mil	Multilayer properties, combined advantages	Heavy duty packaging, agricultural films

Manufacturing Process

DeWAL uses an extrusion process to manufacture their LDPE films:

• Polymer resin is gravity fed into the extruder hopper
• The extruder melts and blends the polymer into a homogenous melt
• The melt is extruded through a flat die as a thin plastic sheet
• The sheet is rapidly cooled by chill rolls
• The cooled film is then wound into rolls

Extrusion lines can be configured for different film widths and layer structures. Coextrusion allows simultaneous extrusion of multiple layers to obtain specific properties.

Quality Control

To ensure consistent quality, DeWAL subjects all LDPE films to rigorous testing:

• Gauge/thickness measurement
• Dart impact strength
• Elmendorf tear resistance
• Tensile and elongation
• Puncture resistance
• Seal strength
• Optical properties

Real-time monitoring and strict process controls are implemented during production.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common uses of LDPE film?

Some of the most common uses are food packaging like bread bags and frozen food bags, shipping envelopes, plastic bags, shrink wrap, and plastic sheeting for construction and agriculture.

How does LDPE film compare to HDPE film?

LDPE has lower density, tensile strength, and chemical resistance than HDPE but is more flexible and better at heat sealing. LDPE is well-suited for packaging while HDPE is better for rigid containers.

Can LDPE film be recycled?

Yes, LDPE film can be recycled, usually into composite lumber, landscaping boards, trash bags, and other plastic products. Clean LDPE film is sought after by many recyclers.

Is LDPE film safe for food packaging?

Yes, LDPE is FDA-approved for food contact and offers a good moisture and oxygen barrier to help preserve foods safely. As long as proper sanitation procedures are followed, LDPE is very safe for food packaging.

What thickness of LDPE film should I choose?

It depends on your application, but 2-4 mil films are common for general packaging, while heavier 8-10 mil films provide more durability for shipping sacks and industrial uses. Talk to your supplier about your specific needs.