How to Convert Stretch Film Micron vs Gauge & More About Thickness?

How to Convert Stretch Film Micron vs Gauge & More About Thickness?

By AAA Polymer | Stretch Wrap

Feb 10

The thickness of the plastic stretch film is called its gauge, which can be expressed in mils vs microns. A “mil” is essentially 1/1000th of an inch. This measurement can sometimes represent a millimeter to those outside of the states. To calculate the gauge, multiply (mils) x (100), so a stretch film that is 0.5 mils = 50 gauge. And to move from mils to microns, you will need to multiply the mils x 25.4. Let's take a closer look at stretch film micron and gauge. 

Stretch Film Micron vs Gauge Conversion Chart

The thickness of the stretch film is called its gauge. And gauge can be measured in microns or mils. Simply put, the higher the gauge micron or mil, the thicker the plastic. And the thicker the material, the more durable the product. 

  • 1 mil = 0.001"

  • 25.4 microns = 1 mil

Gauge

Micron

Mil

35

8.9

.35

45

11.4

.45

50

12.7

.50

60

15.2

.60

80

20.3

.80

100

25.4

1.00

120

30.5

1.20

150

38.1

1.50

180

45.7

1.80

200

50.8

2.0

Common Stretch Wrap Gauges & Film Thicknesses

Most stretch film thickness is listed in terms of gauge. We've outlined a few of the most common stretch film gauges below.

37 Stretch Wrap Gauge

This gauge of stretch wrap is unique because it's essentially an 80 gauge film that has been previously pre-stretched for easier application with less force. Even so, this film is ideal for uniform, lighter loads up to 800 lbs.

47 Stretch Wrap Thickness

Also referred to as a hybrid or equivalent stretch wrap, 47 gauge stretch wrap is manufactured with a different type of resin. This resin creates a tighter, stiffer film that has a lower stretch capacity.

A 47 gauge stretch wrap boasts the strength and retention power of a higher gauge without being as thick. This film is suitable for loads up to approximately 1,800 lbs and offers the retention power of a standard 60-gauge film. 

60 Gauge Stretch Film Thickness

This film is best suited for uniform loads up to 1,800 lbs.

63 Gauge Stretch Wrap Thickness

This slightly higher gauge film offers more resistance against tearing and puncturing. The 63- gauge stretch film is suitable for loads up to 2,200 lbs.

70 Gauge to 80 Gauge Stretch Wraps 

As the industry standard, 80 gauge wrap is suitable for loads of up to 2,400, while 70 gauge film can usually handle up to 2,200 lb loads. 

90 Gauge, 100 Gauge & 115 Gauge Stretch Thicknesses

The starting point for the heavy-gauge stretch wrap is 90. This film is more resistant to punctures, stronger, and can be rated for loads of up to 2,600 lbs. Thicker stretch films of 100 and 115 may be used for loads of up to 3,000 lbs or higher. 

150 Gauge Stretch Films 

150 stretch wrap gauge is the thickest film available and may be ideal for securing sharp or irregularly shaped. This thicker gauge film is useful for securing taller loads as well. 

Types of Stretch Wrap

The gauge of your stretch film is important, but there are a few key rules you should use when choosing a film. Here are a few key categories of stretch films

Pre-Stretch Film 

Pre-stretched film is a type of wrap that has been previously stretched to breaking point before being placed on the roll. Because of this, it delivers higher cost savings by reducing the amount of material required to wrap your loads. At the same time, pre-stretched film offers many benefits:

  • Easier to apply because it requires little to no stretching in application

  • The rolls are lighter and easier to handle

  • Improved security because it creates a tighter load. 

  • Increased consistency throughout the load

  • Reduced waste

  • Performs exceptionally well in cold environments

  • Delivers remarkable cling

  • Excellent clarity for easy inspections

  • Perfect for misshapen or protruding loads

  • The greener, more environmentally-friendly solution 

Learn more about Pre-Stretched films.

Hybrid or Equivalent Stretch Films

Equivalent or hybrid stretch films are thinner than the true-gauge equivalents. However, these films offer similar holding power. 

True-Gauged Stretch Film

As the name suggests, a true-gauged film has not been pre-stretched. These are the standard films. 

How to Choose the Right Stretch Film Gauge for Your Application? 

When choosing the best stretch film, it's imperative to do so based on the specific application. Consider these key factors.

The Shape of the Load

If you have a uniform load, such as a pallet of same-size boxes, it will require less durability and holding power than an unstable load with several sharp edges and corners. 

The Weight of the Load

Simply put, the heavier the load, the more force the stretch film will be under. And this means, your stretch film will need to be stronger. 

Type of Film

The gauge of your film isn't the only consideration. Different types of stretch wrap, such as blown vs cast, high-performance wraps, or pre-stretch, all have unique wrapping power and properties. You can read more about the different types of stretch films and their unique holding power and wrapping characteristics. 

Contact AAA Polymer 

When it comes to choosing the best stretch film for your application, one size doesn't fit all. Because of this, we take a tailored approach to helping you find the best film for your application. In doing so, we can help save you time and money, and create efficiencies. 

At AAA Polymer, we offer decades of experience helping facilities select the best stretch wrap thickness for their shipping needs. 

Contact us today.

About the Author

AAA Polymer, Inc. was founded in 1974, as a plastic resin and material trading company with an innovative vision to create a company to provide plastic recycling services for industrial/commercial businesses. If you have any questions, we're here for you. Just call us at 718.389.2498.

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