Pyramid Packaging is a supplier of pre-opened poly bags in a wide range of film types for virtually any bag packaging application. Deciding on the best flexible packaging films for your packaging application can be a complicated process.

There are many variables to consider in order to best display and preserve your packaged product. Different poly bag materials are used for their unique characteristics, including clarity, strength, opacity, barrier properties, printability, puncture resistance, and other industry specifications.

There’s a right tool for every job and there’s a correct bag for every packaging application. Pyramid Packaging can help you select which of the following types of films & variables are required for your packaging application.

Some material types include films for mail order bags, mil spec bags, UV resistant bags, anti-static bags and much more.

Below are common types of flexible packaging films used.

Types of Flexible Packaging Films:

1. Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDP) — offers superior strength and durability
2. Low Density Polyethylene Films (LDPE) — the industry standard for strength and flexibility
3. High Density Co-ex Blend Polyethylene Film — additive-free bag material with good clarity
4. Polypropylene Film — excellent clarity and strength for retail bag packaging
5. Polyester Laminated to Linear Low Density Polyethylene — offers excellent stiffness and gloss for maximum brand impact
6. Anti-Fog — ensures bagged contents remain visible from condensation
7. Barrier/Co-extruded Films — specially designed for resistance from aroma, gases, flavors and solvents
8. Opaque Films — fully opaque, UV-resistant films protect and conceal contents military spec compliant films — waterproof and greaseproof packaging that meets mil spec compliance
9. UV Protective Films — protects bag contents from ultra-violet rays
10. Static Dissipative Films — designed to dissipate static build-up in the bag
11. Rust/Corrosion Inhibitor Films — corrosion-resistant bags protect contents against rust
12. Specialty Films — engineered films for unique bag packaging applications

For more information, contact Pyramid Packaging using this form or email us at [email protected], as well as our phone number: (847)-272-3400.

The Autobag DATA Count U-162 Counter, integrated with the Autobag 500 bagger, is engineered to fully automate the high-speed counting and packaging of bulk small products. As a result, it is a compact, flexible and a cost-effective system. It is designed with advanced counting technology from DATA Technologies. Its innovative product engineering is from Automated Packaging Systems.

Capable of counting up to 25,000 objects per minute, this hopper and vibratory feed track system uses an advanced mathematical algorithm to ensure high levels of accuracy. Utilizing the very latest technology, the Autobag DATA Count U-162 Counter is capable of detecting variable shaped products. These range from 0.5 – 25mm in size.

Flexible packaging films are used to package, preserve and protect a variety of items such as fresh foods, dry goods, pharmaceutical and consumer products. The films are used to make poly bags/pouches, stretch wrap, shrink wrap, bubble wrap and void fill supplies.

How film is made

Flexible packaging supplies provide several advantages because they are lightweight resulting in lower shipping cost, moisture resistant, and require less storage space over their rigid packaging counterparts, an are inexpensive to produce.

Flexible films start off as plastic pellets. Most plastic packaging films are blown films. Plastic pellets are fed into an extruder where they are melted and ejected through a circular blown film die. The melted plastic forms a continuous tube, which is inflated and cooled.

Plastic film rolls can be printed & laminated to optimize graphics. They have superior barrier properties and excellent sealing characteristics. can be placed on different types of packaging machinery in order to maximize productivity.

Differences in Flexibility

There are many different types of flexible films available. Deciding on which type depends on your application. The most common type of films are polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyolefin, PVC, and polyester.

Polyethylene shrink films are often used to wrap bottled water, canned goods and other heavy objects. It’s ideal for wrapping large & bulky items during transit. These films are so strong they can replace corrugated boxes.

Polypropylene is a general-purpose shrink film often used to wrap retail items. It shrinks at low temperatures while providing durable seals.

Polyolefin is a clear film that shrinks evenly in all directions. This film allows scents to permeate it. Since it requires high temperatures to shrink the film, it’s often applied with a shrink-wrap machine, which increases productivity and allows items to be bundled together. As a result, Polyolefin films are used to wrap retail items, food/snacks and literature.

PVC shrink films have high strength with good clarity and gloss. It’s used to package software items such and CDs, DVDs & Blue-ray discs but also used to wrap books, toys & food items.

Polyester (PET) is a tough, durable plastic, which is used or flexible pouches, and barrier films.

Established in 1968 & headquartered in Northbrook, IL, Pyramid Packaging is an ISO 9001:2008 compliant supplier of flexible packaging films. Our packaging sales engineers can help you select the best film design and construction for your packaging application. Click here to contact Pyramid Packaging for more information.

Food metal detectors are used for consumer protection. The consequences for a food related packaging company that is not using metal detectors can include lawsuits, recalls and hurt their brand image.

Parts of the food processing and packaging equipment like nuts, bolts or shavings can possibly fall off an accidentally be packaged with the items.

Metal particles that enter the product during the production process can also cause serious injuries. Food X-Ray machines and metal detectors, as a result, will automatically detect and reject contaminated product from the production line. This will save you plenty of time, money and energy in the long run and in particular, the end-user: Consumers.

These detectors are ideal for the following applications:

• Baked Goods
• Confectionery & Snack Foods
• Convenience Food | Food-to-Go
• Dairy and Egg Products
• Dried Foods, Cereals & Grains
• Fruit, Vegetables & Nuts
• Meat, Poultry & Fish
• Other / General Industries

Loma food x-ray detectors will provide effective protection against metal as well as non-metal contaminants.

You can reach out to Pyramid Packaging in a variety of ways. First, fill out our Contact Us form by clicking on this link. Next, you can email us at [email protected]. Finally, you can give us a call at (847)-272-3400 and a member of our customer service team will be sure to get back to you in a timely fashion.

Autobag’s Ergocon Textile Packaging Equipment system is engineered for high speed packaging of industrial laundered applications and textile services. The laundry packaging system uses an automatic feeder. It is fully integrated with the Autobag AB 255 wide bagger, to inspect and package up to 7,000 towels per hour.

The inspection and packaging operation begins by loading the bulk feed bin with clean towels or other industrial laundered items. Loading can be done while the system is operating.

Items are automatically fed from the bin to the pick conveyor for separation. Then, they are conveyed to the inspection area. After inspection, towels continue down the conveyor. Next, they pass through a counting eye. finally, they are automatically delivered to an open bag at the Autobag AB 255.

This commercial laundry equipment sets the pace of production. Speeds are adjustable to run slower for items requiring tighter inspection or faster to achieve high production rates.

The user-friendly control panel allows storage and recall of up to 14 jobs. It also can load building capabilities, show real time productivity data, onboard diagnostics, and more.

Optional features include a performance indicating light stack, laser level control system, reject count system, and an extended 71′ discharge conveyor. When used with genuine Autobag pre-opened bags, the Autobag Ergocon Textile Packaging Equipment System offers high-quality, reliability and flexibility for the commercial laundry industry.

To learn more, please contact us using this form. You can also reach out by emailing us at [email protected], or calling us at (847)-272-3400.

Highlight’s self propelled Fantom stretch wrappers give you the freedom to wrap loads anywhere in your facility without sacrificing consistency and film savings. The semi-automatic controls make wrapping varying sized loads simple and easy.

The self-propelled load tracking design means that products of any weight, length, or width can be wrapped. It also eliminates the need to move unstable loads. This powered pre-stretch system provides greatly increased film savings and performance.

Features of this stretch wrapper include an emergency stop button, which is automatically triggered when an object is in the way. Next, an auto film cut improves productivity by upwards of 30% by knowing when to cut off the film. Thirdly, the touch control manual provides intuitive control of robot settings, ranging from speed, battery indication and more. It can also hold multiple wrap “recipes”. The “Select Stretch” feature, located above the carriage, allows for the operator can change the film between 230%-270% easily. Finally, it is built well and sturdy, which will last you years after a purchase.

The on-board battery pack allows you to wrap 200 – 300 loads on a single charge.

For more information on a self propelled stretch wrapper watch the video below or contact Pyramid Packaging at 847-272-3400 or click here.

The Pyramid Packaging Team attended the Pack Expo show, which took place Nov. 6-9 in Chicago at McCormick Place. The show gave us an opportunity to meet with many of our suppliers since most exhibit at the show.

It also gave our packaging engineers the chance to see the latest in packaging equipment, films and supplies that may benefit our customers.

Pack Expo is the world’s largest processing and packaging event of the year. Check out our slideshow of companies that we represent.

You can contact Pyramid Packaging in a number of ways. First, you can fill out this form. Next, you can give us a call at (847)-272-3400. Thirdly, you can email us at [email protected].

Anti-static shielding bags are used to store, transport and protect electronic components and printed circuitry boards. The bags will protect electronic items from damage when electrostatic discharge occurs. Static electricity occurs more often when there are low amounts of moisture in the air. Anti-static bags have a thin microscopic layer of water molecules at the film’s surface which reduces the chances of a discharge from taking place. Additionally, controlling the humidity level of a room will reduce static electricity.

These bags are commonly made from low density polyethylene (PE) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and have a pink or silver metalized color.

To create the anti-static effect, the bags are slightly conductive, which creates a Faraday Cage around bagged item which avoids any discharges from being deposited onto the item. These bags will dissipate static electricity so it cannot create electrostatic discharge (ESD) whereas a static shielding bag blocks the ESD. Pyramid Packaging is a supplier of the following types anti-static bags:

• Reclosable/ziplock bags

• Flat poly bags

• Tubing

• conductive flat bags

• conductive bags reclosable/ziplock

• conductive tubing

• static shielding bags

• cushioned static shielding bags

• reclosable/ziplock

• available in clear, pink, various sizes and thicknesses

About Pyramid Packaging
Est. in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services. We are a supplier of stock and customized anti-static shielding bags. If needed, our experienced packaging engineers will work with you to develop a customized anti-static poly bag based on your design specifications (size, thickness, closure type, graphics). Call us at 847-272-3400, fill out our Contact Us form to learn more, or simply email us at [email protected].

Choosing the right poly bag (film) for your packaging application can be a confusing process. If you’re not familiar with packaging films, you may think they are basically all the same but nothing could further from the truth. A Poly bag can come in different styles, materials, thicknesses, blends, barrier properties and available in loose pack and rolls.

Bag Types

Poly bags are also known as poly and plastic bags. They are commonly used of packaging applications. Poly is short for polyethylene which is the material they are made from. They are used for bagging foods, produce, dry goods, magazines, chemicals, and also for storage. The most popular types of poly bags are layflat, gusseted, and zip lock.

Lay flat plastic poly bags work great for packaging products and protecting them from dust, debris and fingerprints. These bags provide a barrier of protection during shipping and storage. As the name implies, the bag lays flat and does not expand beyond the natural elasticity of the plastic.

Gusset poly bags have sides that expand. The bags are made from polyethylene and come in various thicknesses (1 mil to 4 mil) and sizes for various packaging applications. They are used to package industrial, hardware, food, and healthcare related items. Gusset bags are available in loose pack and rolls. The bags are an ideal packaging solution for irregular shaped items. Since the sides expand, they will conform to the shape of your box product.

Zip lock bags provide secure locking zipper which provides an excellent way to keep out foreign substances that may damage a product. Due to its reclosable feature, it is easily reusable and is great way for keeping out moisture, and dust.

Poly films also come in tubing and sheeting which allows you to customize its lengths.

Bag Materials

A Poly bag can come in an array of materials that including but not limited to LDPE, HDPE, PP and PET. Variables like the films clarity, oxygen and moisture barrier rates will help decide on which film type is best for your packaging application.

Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)

These packaging films are inexpensive, have good clarity and often are used to package fresh produce, frozen foods, and baked goods. Artwork can be added to give the produce a customized look.

High density polyethylene (HDPE)

These packaging films are found in many of the same applications as LDPE and LLDPE. It is stiffer and more rigid than many other PE films. HDPE has good moisture barrier properties and is resistant to grease and oils. HDPE is often used inside a box to preserve its contents, such as cereal bags or cake mixes.

Polypropylene (PP)

These films are soft, clear have good moisture barriers and high oxygen transfer rates. Therefore, PP films are commonly used with bakeries and food markets. These films are similar, but less flexible than LDPE films.

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)

PET films are durable, heat resistant films with very good oxygen barrier properties. When PET films are laminated with metal foil (MET PET), it will increase the oxygen-water barrier and block UV rays. Metalized films for flexible packaging are essential when the product requires extra protection to ensure a longer shelf life. MET PET films provide protective properties for food requiring restricted visibility.

About Pyramid Packaging
Established in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services. We create value by working with clients who need help in selecting and customizing their packaging films.

Pyramid Packaging can customize your plastic packaging films & barriers according to your blend, size & graphic design. Call us at 847-272-3400, fill out our Contact Us form, or [email protected].

Oxygen transfer rate (OTR) allows a flexible packaging film to either reduce or allow the smell of an item to penetrate the film at a certain temperature.

Oxygen transfer rate is the amount of oxygen that penetrates a given area in one day. However the relative humidity can affect barrier properties of certain films. Plastic films with a high OTR are used to package fragrance soaps, and other products where the consumer would want smell the item before purchasing.

Often, the smell of an item will help sell the product while protecting it from moisture, dust and handling. If an item has an undesirable smell like pet foods or fishing bait, a film with a low OTR would be used in order to reduce or eliminate its odor.

Some foods require a very low OTR that keeps oxygen out in order to extend its shelf life. Different films types like PE (most permeable), PP, and MET will all have different OTR rates.

If you need help in selecting the right packaging film for your product, contact Pyramid Packaging. Est. in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services.

We create value by working with clients who need help in selecting and customizing their packaging films. Call us at 847-272-3400, use our Contact Us form, or email us at [email protected].

Many businesses are now selling their products on Amazon. Companies are using their FBA (fulfillment by Amazon) to send it directly to the customer. Amazon FBA does have requirements on how the items need to be packed.

If they are not packed properly, it can create delays in the items getting into Amazon’s inventory. Additionally, using the correct packing material ensures your shipment moves quickly through the Amazon fulfillment center.

Amazon recommends using bubble wrap and inflatable air pillows. It does not recommend using peanut packaging, crinkle wrap or shredded paper. They also recommend that if poly bags with an opening of 5″ (measured when flat) or larger is used, are required to have a suffocation warning, either printed on the bag itself, or attached as a label. The bags also need to be transparent, and must be a certain thickness.

Sure, you can easily get some of your packaging supplies from a UPS Store, Home Depot or Walmart. However, if you are packaging a substantial amount, you can save money by buying in volume from a family-owned company like Pyramid Packaging.

We are supplier of on poly bags, bags on a roll, shrink wrap, stretch wrap, demand bubble wrap, air pillows and carton sealing tape. Established in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added, and ISO 9001 compliant supplier of packaging machinery, supplies, and services. Click here to contact us or call 847-272-3400.

Plastic pellets are heated up, melted and extruded to form the plastic film.  The film can be clear, opaque or high gloss and made from polypropylene, and polyethylene. Some packaging films offer high-barrier properties which makes them a good fit for food packaging.

They provide protective properties for food items requiring restrictive visibility and will also increase the product’s shelf-life, and freshness.

Oxygen transfer rate (OTR) is used to measure the amount of oxygen that passes through a film. A good rule of thumb is this: The lower the number, the better the film barrier.

Additional barrier properties include UV protection, odor prevention, moisture  and gas barriers. Deciding on the barrier film for your packaging application can be a complicated process.

There are many variables to consider in order to best preserve your packaged product.

Below are a list of the most common type of barrier films used for food packaging.

Foil (aluminum) backings

These offer the best best barrier protection with an OTR of 0. Foil is often used in candy wrappers, as well as preserving chocolate.

EVOH (ethylene vinyl alcohol)

These barrier films have a OTR at .6 cc EVOH barriers are often used to package items such as meat, fish & poultry related products.

MPET

When OPP/BOPP films are laminated with metal foil (MET) it will increase the film’s oxygen & water barrier & block out UV rays. Additionally, because of the film’s stiffness, it is used as a wrap for hard candies, chocolates & is resistant to heat and moisture.

KPET

This is a soft saran coated PET film with good transparency. It is used as a substrate to laminate with other films. KPET has excellent gas, moisture and vapor properties making suitable for packaging of dry goods and protecting fragrant related items.

PET (polyester)

This is very good oxygen barrier, heat resistant & strong film with good durability. PET film is an excellent laminating substrate for stand-up pouches. Therefore, when PET films are laminated with metal foil it will increase the film’s oxygen — water barrier & block out UV rays.

Metallized films for flexible packaging are essential when the product requires extra protection to ensure a longer shelf life. MET PET provides protective properties for food items requiring restricted visibility.

Nylon barrier films

These films have a high melting point and are used for cooking applications such as boiling, microwaving & baking. As a result, it has very good clarity, moisture barriers & is considered a very strong film.

Polypropylene barrier films

This material is soft, clear glossy film with good moisture barriers and high oxygen transfer rates. It is often used for plastic food bags.

LLDPE barrier films

This type of films are inexpensive and have good clarity. It is used to package fresh, produce, frozen foods & baked goods. Because of its high OTR of 2500 cc, it work well when the package requires oxygen.

About Pyramid Packaging

Est. in 1968, Pyramid Packaging is a value-added supplier of flexible packaging films, equipment & services. We also create value by working with clients who need help in selecting and customizing their packaging films. Pyramid Packaging can customize your plastic packaging films & barriers according to your blend, size & graphic design. Call us at 847-272-3400 or contact us here.

Deciding on a packaging film for your product can be a difficult process. There are many variables to consider during the film selection process. Not selecting the proper film can create many problems including reducing the life of the item. Established in 1968 Pyramid Packaging is a value-added, and ISO 9001 compliant supplier of packaging films. View our presentation to learn more about variables that should be considered when selecting a packaging film.

To contact us, please fill out this form. You can also give us a call at (847)-272-3400, or email us at [email protected].