APPLICATION

Plastic Wrap and Shrink Film

Plastic wrap and shrink film are the most widely used packaging materials in various industries, from snacks and beverages to household products and pharmaceuticals.
Their function is to protect products from dust, water, and contamination, while also providing an attractive appearance on store shelves.

During the production process, plastic film is printed, wrapped, and then sealed at high speed. Therefore, a coding system is required that can print production codes, expiration dates, or batch numbers quickly and consistently—even while the film is moving continuously.

CHALLENGE

Challenges on Plastic Wrap and Shrink Film
The film surface is slippery and flexible, making it difficult for the ink to adhere without fast drying.
The printing process is carried out at high speed before or after sealing (seal area).
Some films are transparent or reflective, making print contrast a challenge.
Must ensure the print does not damage the thin film or cause melting.
Sharp, fast-drying, and hygienic codes are required to meet food and pharmaceutical product regulations.

SOLUTION

Solution On Plastic Wrap and Shrink Film
Thermal Transfer Printer (TTO)

Thermal Transfer Overprinting (TTO) technology is specifically designed for printing on flexible film and shrink film with high-precision print results.
This printer uses a thermal ribbonto transfer ink to the plastic surface with controlled pressure and heat, resulting in sharp, fade-resistant results.

Advantages Main:

  • High-resolution prints (up to 300 dpi), suitable for logos, QR codes, and small text.
  • The ink from the TTO ribbon adheres perfectly to OPP, PET, PE, PVC, and other films.
  • Does not damage the packaging due to controlled printing temperature.
  • Suitable for horizontal & vertical form fill seal (HFFS/VFFS) in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
  • Low operational costs, easy ribbon replacement.
Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) Printer

For medium-volume production runs or simple code, Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) technology can be a fast and economical alternative.
TIJ uses pigment or UV-curable ink cartridges that can print on film surfaces with high-contrast results.

Advantages:

  • Sharp, fast-drying prints on non-porous surfaces like OPP, PET, or PVC films.
  • Compact printer size, suitable for limited space on wrapping machines.
  • No heating required like TTO, suitable for heat-sensitive films.
  • Ideal for simple codes: batch, date, small barcode.
Packaging and Industrial Laser Printer

For factories that require permanent, hygienic codes, and no consumables, the Laser Marking (SmartLase Series) system can be used.
The laser works by directly marking the film surface or creating a contrast effect by changing the outer layer of the material (etching).

Advantages:

  • No ink or ribbon — waste-free and low maintenance.
  • Prints are heat, abrasion, and moisture resistant.
  • Very high speed, ideal for fast packaging lines.
  • Suitable for multilayer film materials (PET/PP).

INDUSTRY

Suitable Industries for Plastic Wrap and Shrink Film
Food and drinks (snacks, coffee, sauces, powdered drinks)
Pharmaceuticals (blister packs, sachets, strip packs)
Household products (soap, detergent, refill pouch)
Health and nutrition products

Ready to print the perfect code on your shrink film?

Contact PT Aga Prima Engineering for coding solutions tailored to your packaging line needs. Our team is ready to recommend the best printers, inks, and system integration for every type of flexible film material.