Are you unsure about the right thickness of plastic sheeting for your needs? Plastic sheeting, also known as polyethylene sheeting, comes in various thicknesses, measured in "mils." Understanding the thickness is crucial because it determines the strength and durability of the material.
What's a "mil" anyway?
A "mil" represents one-thousandth of an inch or 0.001 inch, akin to the thickness of a human hair. To put things in perspective, 10 mil plastic sheeting is thicker than 6 mil, and 5 mil is thicker than 3 mil. If you were to stack 10 sheets of paper together, it would roughly approximate the thickness of 10 mil plastic, whereas 6 sheets of paper would be closer in thickness to 6 mil plastic. So, if you need a more robust and durable material for your project, opting for 10 mil plastic sheeting would be the logical choice due to its greater thickness and strength. Keep in mind that "mils" aren't the same as millimeters (mm).
The Exception: Virgin Resin
Just like there are different grades of gasoline or wine, plastic sheeting varies in quality. The term "virgin resin" signifies high-grade plastic that contains pure polyethylene without any mixed-in regrind. While some stores offer recycled plastic sheeting with similar thickness, it may not be as durable as virgin polyethylene. For essential projects requiring reliability and strength, investing a bit more in premium or virgin polyethylene is advisable.
Exploring Additives for Enhanced Performance
Plastic sheeting can be tailored with additives to enhance its properties. For instance, fire retardant additives make the sheeting melt instead of burn, making it ideal for safety-conscious applications. Other additives include anti-static with fire retardant, UV stabilizers, anti-slip enhancements, coloring, and various coatings, allowing you to customize your sheeting for specific purposes.
String/Scrim Reinforced Plastic Sheeting
Plain plastic sheeting has limitations, especially in windy conditions. Adding a polyester string cord to the plastic layers fortifies it, making it tear-resistant and resilient against high winds, UV exposure, and even fire.
Why Thicker Plastic Costs More
The thickness of plastic sheeting directly correlates with the amount of polyethylene used to produce it. Thicker plastic requires more material, impacting the cost. The cost of polyethylene film canbe comparted to gas prices because polyethylene is derived from petroleum, a primary component of plastics production. When gas prices rise, the cost of producing polyethylene increases, leading to higher prices for polyethylene film and related products. Calipers are used to ensure precise thickness measurements, especially for critical applications.
Exploring HDPE: Heavy-Duty Plastic Sheeting
HDPE plastic liners or films are favored for their exceptional strength-to-density ratio, making them ideal for numerous applications. They offer outstanding durability and resistance to environmental factors, making them a preferred choice for applications such as liners for containment systems, landfill covers, and more. Additionally, the eco-friendly nature of HDPE and its recyclability contribute to its status as a sustainable choice in the realm of plastic liners and films.
HDPE, LDPE, LLDPE: What Sets Them Apart?
When choosing between HDPE, LDPE, LLDPE, or MDPE, consider their thickness and flexibility variations. These differences arise from how the molecules in their cellular structure bond, impacting strength and flexibility. Read more here
Withstand Extreme Chemicals
Certain plastic films such as HDPE are designed to withstand extreme chemical exposure, making them suitable for applications such as spill containment, wastewater impoundments, landfill liners, floating covers, tank farms, and potable water storage.
Not Sure? We're Here to Help!
If you're unsure about which plastic film suits your project, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're passionate about plastic sheeting and ready to assist you in making the right choice. Your satisfaction is our priority!
