Difference between Polypropylene and PVC Packing Tape
Secure packaging and shipping are essential for securing your goods. Among the wide variety of tools you have, packing tape provides strong safety to your packages in order to ensure a safe delivery. The two common types of packing tapes used by most people are polypropylene and PVC packing tapes.
Although they look similar at first glance, they have unique characteristics that set them apart. In this article, we will examine the differences between polypropylene and PVC packing tapes that help you to make informed decisions when it comes to protecting your shipments.
Material and Composition:
The main difference between polypropylene and PVC packing tapes is their composition. Polypropylene is made from a thermoplastic polymer, which gives some flexibility while maintaining strength. On the other hand, PVC is a synthetic plastic polymer that is well-known for its durability and resistance to various environmental factors.
Durability and Strength:
PVC packing tape takes the lead when it comes to strength. It is known for its robustness, making it an excellent choice for heavy-duty applications. It can withstand extreme temperatures and is highly resistant to moisture, chemicals, and UV radiation. This resilience makes this type of tape ideal for long-term storage and transportation of goods under challenging circumstances.
Despite being durable, polypropylene tape is typically less resilient than PVC. It is more suitable for lightweight packages or short-term applications. Polypropylene tape is more vulnerable to extreme temperatures and may lose its adhesive properties when exposed to excessive heat or cold, which might lead to package failure.
Adhesion and Application:
In order to ensure that the packages remain sealed during the transit, cintas de embalaje (packing tapes) adhesive properties are more essential. Both polypropylene and PVC tapes come with various options, including acrylic and hot melt adhesives. However, they have various adhesive properties.
Acrylic-coated polypropylene tape is versatile and adheres well to a wide range of surfaces. It is ideal for use on cardboard boxes and works efficiently in moderate temperature conditions. This type of tape is often chosen because of its cost-effectiveness and easy-to-use properties.
On the other hand, PVC tapes have excellent adhesion because of their natural-rubber-based adhesive or hot-melt adhesive. It sticks to surfaces securely, even in conditions of extremely high or low temperatures. Due to its superior adhesion properties, PVC tapes are a great option for sealing packages that will be subjected to severe handling or fluctuating shipping temperatures.
Cost considerations:
Cost is the major factor in choosing a packing tape. PVC tape often costs more than polypropylene tape. It offers a cost-effective solution for businesses with high shipping volumes, as it strikes a balance between affordability and performance. Even though, PVC tapes are more valuable, they might be beneficial for applications where superior strength and durability are crucial.
Conclusion:
When it comes to packing tape, the choice between polypropylene and PVC depends on your individual needs and priorities. Both packing tapes have their own set of advantages and by understanding their differences, you can select the best one that suits your packaging needs.