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Automotive Shrink Film Is a Recognized Non-Toxic Material

Jul. 15, 2025

Automotive Shrink Film is a recognized non-toxic material, which can be made into a heat-shrinkable label material with high transparency, good processing performance and good toughness. Since PE is a non-polar material, the adhesion to the ink is weak, and the ink layer is easily peeled off, so surface treatment must be performed before printing. PE heat shrinkable film is especially suitable for food, medicine, beverage and other industries.


Automotive Shrink Film

Table of Contents

  1. What is Automotive Shrink Film?

  2. Production Technology and Characteristics

  3. Applications in Automotive and Other Industries

  4. PET vs PVC Shrink Films

  5. Environmental Benefits

  6. Tips for Printing and Labeling

  7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


What is Automotive Shrink Film?

Automotive Shrink Film is a type of heat-shrinkable packaging material that can conform tightly to containers and products when heated. It is commonly made from PE, PET, or PVC.

  • PE heat shrink film: suitable for food, medicine, and beverage industries.

  • PET shrink film: environmentally friendly, easy to recycle, high transparency.

  • PVC shrink film: traditional material, high gloss, but less eco-friendly.


Production Technology and Characteristics

Shrinkable films are generally produced using the bubble tube stretching process. Key characteristics include:

  • High shrinkage rate (up to 70% for PET films)

  • High transparency and gloss

  • Good mechanical properties and toughness

  • Fireproof, antistatic, and waterproof properties

Important note: PE is non-polar, so surface treatment is required before printing to ensure ink adhesion and prevent peeling.


Applications in Automotive and Other Industries

Automotive Shrink Film is widely used for:

  • Automotive parts labeling: heat-shrink labels for bottles, containers, and packaging

  • Food and beverage packaging: bottles, cans, and cartons

  • Pharmaceutical packaging: tamper-evident labels

  • Cosmetics and personal care: high-end packaging protection

  • Industrial products: shrink labels for cylindrical or irregular containers

Its strong shrinkage and elastic tension ensure secure wrapping and protect the product during transport.


PET vs PVC Shrink Films

FeaturePET Shrink FilmPVC Shrink Film
Shrinkage RateUp to 70%High, but less than PET after modification
TransparencyHighHigh
RecyclabilityEasy to recycleDifficult
Environmental SafetyNon-toxic, tastelessMay emit toxic gases when burned
ApplicationsBeverage bottles, eco-friendly labelsTraditional labels, cosmetics

PET shrink film has become the preferred choice in developed countries due to its environmental advantages and mechanical performance.


Environmental Benefits

  • Non-toxic and tasteless

  • Easy to recycle

  • Reduces carbon footprint compared to PVC films

  • Meets modern packaging requirements for low-energy, low-pollution production

Environmental considerations make PET shrink films a sustainable alternative for automotive and consumer goods packaging.


Tips for Printing and Labeling

  • Surface treatment: Required for PE-based films to improve ink adhesion.

  • Lamination: Adding a substrate of the same nature can protect the printed image and enhance durability.

  • Container shape: Cylindrical or ring-shaped containers are ideal for shrink film labeling.

  • Temperature control: Proper heating ensures uniform shrinkage without damaging the product.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can Automotive Shrink Film be used for food packaging?
Yes, PE and PET shrink films are non-toxic and suitable for food and beverage packaging.

Q2: What is the maximum shrinkage rate for PET shrink films?
Modified PET heat shrink films can achieve over 70% shrinkage, making them ideal for tight wrapping and label applications.

Q3: How does PET shrink film compare to PVC shrink film?
PET is more environmentally friendly, recyclable, and emits no toxic gases, while PVC can produce toxic fumes when burned.

Q4: Which industries use Automotive Shrink Film?
Automotive parts, food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial products.

Q5: How to improve print durability on PE shrink film?
Surface treatment and optional lamination can prevent ink peeling and enhance image protection.


Discover our full range of Automotive Shrink Film products


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