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Are you tired of dealing with rust and corrosion on your metal items? Do you want to save time and money while protecting your products? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of VCI stretch film and how it can help protect your metal items during storage and transportation.
VCI stretch film is a packaging material designed to protect metal items from rust and corrosion. It contains VCI molecules that create a barrier around the metal surface, preventing harmful elements from corroding the metal. VCI stretch film is easy to use and can be applied manually or with a stretch wrap machine. It is commonly used in industries like automotive, aerospace, military, marine, and oil and gas.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the benefits of VCI stretch film and its potential applications in various industries. You’ll also learn about the types of products that can benefit from VCI stretch film and why it’s a cost-effective solution for protecting your metal items.
What is VCI stretch film?
| VCI Stretch Film Properties | |
|---|---|
| Material | Co-extruded linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) with vapor corrosion inhibiting (VCI) additives |
| Color | Transparent blue or yellow |
| Thickness | 1 mil or 1.25 mil |
| Width | 4″, 18″, or 20″ |
| Length | 667’, 1500’, 4000’, or 4500’ |
| Metals Protected | Carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, brass, aluminum, silver, galvanized steel |
| Protection Time | Up to 24 months for storage and overseas shipments |
| Shelf Life | 2 years if stored at 85 degrees F (30 degrees C) or less and out of direct sunlight in original packaging |
VCI stretch film is a highly effective packaging material that has been specifically designed for the purpose of safeguarding metal items against the damaging effects of corrosion and rust. The film is composed of a combination of polyethylene resin and VCI (volatile corrosion inhibitor) chemicals, which work together to create a barrier of protection around the metal.
During the manufacturing process, the VCI stretch film is stretched in order to enhance its strength and elasticity, making it more durable and better able to withstand the stresses and strains of storage and transportation. Once in use, the VCI molecules in the film are slowly released into the surrounding air, forming a molecular layer on the surface of the metal.
This layer of protection works by preventing moisture and corrosive agents from coming into direct contact with the metal surface, thus halting the corrosion process in its tracks. VCI stretch film provides a long-lasting and reliable solution to keeping metal items in top condition for extended periods of time, making it an invaluable investment for any business that deals with metal products or components.
Advantages of using VCI stretch film
Protection against corrosion and rust
VCI stretch film provides excellent protection against corrosion and rust. The VCI molecules in the film create a barrier around the metal surface that prevents moisture, oxygen and other corrosive elements from coming in contact with the metal.
This is particularly important for metal products that are stored or transported in harsh environments, like marine and oil and gas industries.
Cost-effectiveness and efficiency
VCI stretch film is a cost-effective and efficient way to protect metal items. It eliminates the need for other types of corrosion inhibitors, such as oil or wax coatings, as well as the time and expense involved in regular cleaning and maintenance of metal surfaces.
In addition, VCI stretch film is easy to apply and can be quickly wrapped around items using standard packaging equipment. This saves time and resources, making it a great option for large-scale industrial projects.
Easy to use and apply
VCI stretch film is easy to apply, even for those without any packaging experience. The film can be wrapped around items manually or using a stretch wrapping machine. Once applied, the film conforms tightly to the metal surface for a secure and protective seal.
Applications of VCI stretch
Industries that use VCI stretch film
VCI stretch film is commonly used across a wide range of industries. These include automotive, aerospace, military, marine and oil and gas companies. Essentially, any industry that uses metal parts or machinery can benefit from using VCI stretch film to protect their products.
Types of products that can benefit from VCI stretch film
VCI stretch film is excellent for a wide range of metal products. These include, but are not limited to:
- Metal parts and components, like automotive and aerospace parts
- Machinery and equipment, like engines or turbines
- Tools and hardware, like wrenches and screwdrivers
- Electronics, like circuit boards and semiconductors
In conclusion, VCI stretch film is an effective and efficient solution for protecting metal products from corrosion and rust. It is cost-effective, easy to use and can be applied to a wide range of metal items that require long-term storage and transportation.
VCI stretch film has many potential applications in the packaging industry, as the technology continues to evolve and improve. As more products and industries adopt VCI stretch film, we can expect to see a further increase in its usage and innovation in its application.
