Bag Specifications
Choosing the right retail packaging, plastic bags, paper bags, or eco-friendly shopping bags can be overwhelming due to the variety of materials and products available. Here’s a simplified guide to help you make an informed decision.
Glossary of Terms
A commonly used plastic for bags, LDPE is known for its high strength, clarity, and flexibility.
Offers excellent clarity and acts as a barrier to preserve freshness, but isn’t suitable for high temperatures.
The clearest plastic, great for protecting against moisture and contaminants. Ideal for food and products with oils or fragrances.
Bag Types and Measurements
Here are common measurements and bag types to know
Flat Poly Bags
W: Width
L: Length
Gauge: Thickness of the bag
Gusseted Poly Bags
W: Width
D: Depth (gusset x 2)
L: Length
Gauge: Thickness of the bag
Round Containers
Length: Add ½ diameter + 4″ for overhang
Width: Measure top or use diameter x 3.14, divide by 2, add 2″
For Covers:
Add 3″ to width and depth, and half of depth to length.
For Inner Liners:
Add 4″ to width or depth, and total depth to length plus overlap.
Conversion Chart for Gauge
- Mil: Thickness of LDPE and LLDPE bags (e.g., 0.30 mil = 7.62 microns)
- Micron: Thickness of HDPE bags (e.g., 25.4 microns = 1 mil)
Bag Types and Materials
- Can Liners: Used for garbage and waste. Colors include clear, black, white, and more.
- Food and Utility Bags: Small, clear bags for various items.
Tests and Measurements
- Dart Drop Test: Measures puncture resistance.
- Elmendorf Tear Test: Measures tearing resistance.
- Wet/Dry Load Capacity: Indicates how much weight the bag can hold.
Resin Types
- LDPE: Older technology, good clarity but weaker.
- LLDPE: Modern, strong, puncture-resistant.
- HDPE: Strong and puncture-resistant, less tear-resistant.
- HAO: High-grade resin used for better quality liners.
- Blended Resin: Combination of resins.
- Reprocessed Resin: Recycled resin, less quality.
Seals
- Flat Seal: Straight seal at the bottom.
- Gusset Seal: Tucked-in sides, can leak.
- Star Seal: Multi-layered and evenly distributed.
Packaging Options
- Top-Side Dispenser Box: Allows stacking and easy access.
- Individually Folded Bags: Easy to pull out.
- Cored Rolls: Rolled on cardboard cylinders.
- Coreless Rolls: Rolled in groups, easy to dispense.