What is the difference between blown and cast stretch film/wrap?

Cast film is manufactured in one continuous extrusion process. Manufactured by melting, pressing and cooling plastic/thermoplastic (polyethylene) into a continuous roll. Cast film has great clarity, easier to stretch around boxes or products, and is harder to tear and clings well on both sides. It is also quiet when wrapping. Usually less expensive than blown film.

Blown film is manufactured in a blown process. When seeing this in person the plastic (polyethylene) pellets are melted and extruded vertically looking like a tall clear balloon. As it is extruded vertically it is cooled. This process makes the consistency more durable compared to cast film. Blown film has a higher load capacity than cast. It holds its shape around boxes or products better and is more tear resistance.

So...blown film is a better product overall but is not as clear when wrapped and is usually more expensive. Cast is less expensive, clarity is better and is more quiet when wrapping boxes or product.

Both blown and cast films are available in hand-wrap or machine grade. There are many gauges of these films that offer less or more strength. More to come on this in the future. 70 or 80 gauge is the typical industry standard. These films come in a variety of colors other than clear for various reasons when storing or shipping. Again, more to come on this in the future.

When choosing a stretch film/wrap it is important to consider budget, waste, labor cost (hand-wrap vs. machine) and most importantly the security of what you are shipping, storing or delivering.