Shrink Sleeve Materials

CenturyLabel offers three types of shrink sleeve materials: polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene chloride (PETG), and oriented polystyrene (OPS). Each of these materials has specific shrink characteristics that lend them to different applications.

PVC Shrink:
PVC is the most cost effective shrink material and the easiest to control in the shrink process. PVC is an economical film with a 56% to 64% shrink characteristic depending on the container and application. PVC begins to shrink between 50º C and 60º C. PVC shrink materials are also available in pasteurisable and steam grades. PVC is scuff resistant.

PETG Shrink:
This substrate offers the highest percentage of shrink and the most scuff resistant of the shrink sleeve materials. PETG is also pasteurisable and recyclable. PETG starts to shrink between 70º C and 80º C and has a 78% shrink characteristic.

OPS Shrink:
OPS offers the lowest vertical shrink of the shrink materials in addition to a more consistent finish. OPS is also more cost effective than PETG. OPS shrink labels are commonly used containers that will be squeezed during application.

Contact CenturyLabel at 800-933-0643 and we’ll help you select the shrink material that meets your specific needs. All shrink materials are heat sensitive and must be kept at a below application temperature at all times to avoid distortion of the material.