Co-Extruded Film: A Deep Dive into Its Properties and Use Cases

Co extrusion blown film, also known as co-extruded film, is a special plastic packaging material. It combines the unique properties of each layer of material by simultaneously melt-blending multiple polymers during the blown film extrusion process to form a single multi-layer structure. This film structure consists of multiple layers of polymers with different properties, which are closely combined through co-extrusion technology to show excellent barrier properties, mechanical strength, processing performance and environmental protection characteristics.

Where is co-extruded film commonly used?

The application of co-extruded film is very wide, including but not limited to food, medicine, chemical industry and other fields. Its outstanding advantage is that it can comprehensively utilize the properties of various substrates to meet the different social functional design requirements of flexible packaging. The production technology of co-extruded film is constantly developing. Leading foreign companies have the ability to produce multi-layer co-extruded film, while domestic companies still have a gap in technology compared with foreign countries. Multi-layer co-extruded film is widely used in the field of medicine and food packaging due to its good barrier properties, good heat sealing properties, strong adhesion, good anti-fog properties, high strength and strong puncture resistance.

The difference between co-extrued film and general flat film

In short, flat films and co-extruded films are both plastic film extrusion blowing processes, but they are different in terms of material composition, production process and product characteristics. Different materials, different production processes and different performance combinations make the two have obvious differences in terms of scope of application and market competition. Below is the detail following difference between co-extruded film and flat film: 

1. Material Composition

   Flat film is made of a single material, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, etc., while co-extruded film is made by co-extrusion of multiple materials. The material composition of co-extruded film can be adjusted according to the required characteristics, and a combination of multiple properties can be achieved.

2. Production Process

   Flat film is produced by a mono layer blown film machine, and then a film is obtained by repeated stretching. Co-extruded film requires a co-extrusion production process, where multiple materials are first combined and extruded, and then processed by cooling, stretching, die-casting and other processes.

3. Product Performance
   
   

   • Transparency
     

     Due to different production processes, flat films usually have higher transparency and are basically colorless. Co-extruded film can be produced in various colors by adding masterbatch, and its own transparency will be affected.

   • Heat resistance  
     

     Because co-extruded film has a more complex composition, it usually has better heat resistance than flat film. Especially for packaging materials used at high temperatures, co-extruded film is usually a better choice.

   • Tensile performance

     Co-extruded film usually has better tensile performance than flat film and can be stretched significantly without breaking. This is because the material composition in the co-extruded film can be adjusted as needed to achieve better strength and toughness.

   • Scope of application

     Due to different material compositions, flat films are usually suitable for some simple packaging and covering needs, such as ordinary plastic bags, cling film, etc. Co-extruded films can be applied to a wider range of fields, such as packaging of electronic products, packaging of medical devices, etc.

     
     

Common applications of co extruded film?

The general practical life applications of co-extruded films are: pure milk bags, express bags, and metal protective films. For example, one type of co-extruded film: black and white film, used to make express bags or milk bags. Because express bags are filled with hard objects or various factors make the bags easy to break, it is not possible to use ordinary PE film, so co-extruded film is needed; Coincidentally, food bags (e.g. pure milk bags) are also required to meet food standards and not easy to break, so co-extruded film must be used. The black and white film is a double-layer co-extruded film. When the plastic is extruded, two heads extrude the black PE film and the white PE film at the same time and bond them together when the film is still in a semi-liquid state without the use of chemicals such as glue.

Best co extruded films machine

For businesses seeking top-quality machinery to produce co-extruded films, PLASTAR offers a range of advanced machines tailored to meet diverse production needs. Here, we highlight three of our exceptional models and their unique features.

• Five-Layer Co-Extrusion Blow Film Machine

  
  

  
  
  The Five-Layer Co-Extrusion Blow Film Machine is designed for high-performance applications requiring complex multi-layer films. Its key features include:
  Enhanced Barrier Properties: This machine produces films with outstanding oxygen and moisture barriers, ideal for food and medical packaging.
  Customizable Layer Thickness: The machine allows precise control of each layer's thickness, ensuring optimal material use and cost efficiency.
  High-Quality Output: Advanced extrusion technology ensures uniformity and high strength in the produced films.
  Applications: Commonly used for packaging fresh produce, dairy products, and vacuum-sealed food items.

  
  

• ABC Three-Layer Co-Extrusion Blow Film Machine

  
  

  
  
  The ABC Three-Layer Co-Extrusion Blow Film Machine is perfect for mid-range applications with diverse material combinations. Its main advantages include:
  Flexible Material Compatibility: Capable of handling a wide range of polymers, offering versatility for different production needs.
  Energy Efficiency: Optimized design reduces energy consumption while maintaining high output rates.
  Easy Maintenance: Modular components make it user-friendly and cost-effective to maintain.
  Applications: Ideal for creating films for shrink wrap, industrial liners, and protective coverings.

  
  

• ABA Three-Layer Co-Extrusion Blow Film Machine
  

  
  
  The ABA Three-Layer Co-Extrusion Blow Film Machine is a highly efficient model designed for cost-conscious manufacturers. Its highlights include:
  Cost Efficiency: This machine allows the use of recycled materials in the middle layer, reducing overall production costs without compromising quality.
  Strong Film Integrity: Films produced exhibit excellent puncture resistance and durability, making them suitable for industrial packaging.
  User-Friendly Operation: Intuitive controls and automated systems enhance productivity and reduce operator workload.
  Applications: Frequently used in the production of shopping bags, agricultural films, and heavy-duty packaging.

  
  

  
  

PLASTAR’s machines are engineered to deliver consistent, high-quality output, enabling manufacturers to meet the ever-growing demands of the packaging industry. Explore our blown film machines to find the right solution for your business.

Case Studies in Co-Extruded Film Manufacturing

• Case Study 1 : Jordan - High Barrier Co-Extruded Film for Agricultural Use

  A leading agricultural company in Jordan adopted our advanced co-extrusion technology to produce high barrier films for agricultural applications. These films are used for greenhouse covers and soil fumigation, offering excellent durability, UV resistance, and controlled permeability to gases. This project demonstrates the versatility of co-extruded films in enhancing agricultural efficiency and sustainability. Learn more.

  
  

• Case Study 2 : Ukraine - Multilayer Co-Extruded Packaging Film for Frozen Foods

  In Ukraine, a prominent food manufacturer upgraded its packaging solutions by utilizing our multi-layer co-extrusion film technology. The films produced are specifically designed for frozen food applications, providing exceptional barrier properties to prevent moisture and freezer burn, while maintaining the freshness of the products. This case highlights the critical role of co-extruded films in modern food packaging. Learn more.

Wenzhou PLASTAR: The Best Solutions for Co-Extruded Film Production

Founded in 2001, Wenzhou PLASTAR has been at the forefront of manufacturing innovative blown film die heads and blown film lines. With over two decades of experience, we excel in crafting solutions that cater to the highest standards of quality and precision in the packaging industry.

At PLASTAR, we understand that robust design is key to performance. Our blown film die heads are forged from premium tool steel with a hardness rating of 30 or higher, ensuring unmatched durability and consistent production of uniform films. This commitment to quality extends to our comprehensive range of co-extrusion machinery designed for diverse applications.

Our expertise spans a wide range of industrial and consumer needs. Leveraging state-of-the-art technology, our solutions empower manufacturers in sectors such as food packaging, agricultural films, and industrial materials. Discover more about our company.

PLASTAR’s machines are designed to handle applications ranging from food-grade packaging for dairy and frozen goods to durable films for agricultural and industrial uses. These advancements demonstrate our dedication to enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and versatility in co-extruded film production. Explore our application capabilities.

We invite you to partner with PLASTAR and discover how our cutting-edge solutions can meet your production needs. Contact us today to explore customized machinery options tailored to your requirements!