The Packaging Rap
SKS Bottle & Packaging Newsletter
LDPE vs. HDPE
January 2017
SKS Bottle and Packaging carries a wide variety of bottles and jars made of LDPE and HDPE, two popular packaging materials derived from polyethylene, a synthetic resin created from the polymerization of ethylene. This light and versatile plastic was first used as an insulator in radar cables during World War II, and is now commonly used for packaging.
LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene)
Low density polyethylene, commonly referred to as LDPE, is a flexible material created when ethylene is placed under very high pressures and temperatures. During the production of LDPE, the pressure reaches 50,000 pounds per square inch, and temperatures reach 660 °! The polymer structure of LDPE consists of both short and long branches. The length of the polymer branches prevents it from packing together tightly, resulting in the flexible nature of LDPE. SKS stocks a variety of LDPE bottles from boston rounds to oval bottles, with different styles of dispensing caps like spout caps and screw caps. The flexibility of LDPE could make it a good option to package products that should be in a squeezable bottles such as glues, paints, syrups, condiments, beauty products, or eye drops. LDPE offers many advantages in addition to its flexibility; has good resistance to moisture and chemicals, and offers a good vapor barrier. LDPE is relatively low in cost and lightweight which helps to reduce shipping costs. Visit this page to view LDPE bottles offered by SKS.
HDPE (High Density Polyethylene)
The process to create HDPE, or high density polyethylene, uses low temperatures and pressures which results in no branches within the polymer structure. Without any branches, the chains are able to pack together closely to create a stiffer, stronger, and moderately heavier material than LDPE.SKS offers HDPE bottles and jars in multiple shapes and sizes in natural, black, white, and amber. There are many combinations of caps to pair with HDPE bottles. Browse our range of HDPE bottles and choose from pumps, snap top caps, disc top caps, sprayers, and much more! Although not quite as flexible as LDPE, HDPE is still relatively more flexible and lightweight than other plastics like polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS), and also has an excellent moisture barrier. This translucent material could be a good option for packaging powders, lotions, detergents, bleaches, or acids, as it has good resistance to chemicals.Browse the website today to view SKS’ wide selection of LDPE and HDPE containers. From jugs to tottle bottles, and jars to dropper bottles, there is sure to be a suitable container to house your product!
Packaging Tip
Recycling Tips
Recycling helps to preserve the environment by reducing pollution, and the use of energy and raw materials. Although there are many local recycling rules and regulations to consider, there are a few general guidelines that should be taken into consideration when recycling. Plastic and glass containers should be rinsed out and caps should be removed from containers and discarded before recycling. Sorting is a very important step to take when recycling. If items are not sorted correctly, they may not make it to recycling facilities. Be sure to check with local regulations to sort your recyclables properly. Some providers may offer single sort recycling where glass, metal, plastic, and paper can be put together, other providers may require these to be separated. It may also be necessary to sort plastics into different groups according to their recycling codes. Recycling codes are given according to the material and located on the bottom of most plastic containers. PET is represented by 1, HDPE by 2, PVC is 3, LDPE is 4, PP is 5, PS is 6, and 7 represents a miscellaneous classification which may include multiple layers of different materials. You should also check local regulations regarding colored glass. Some facilities will only accept clear, amber and green glass for processing. Recyclable items left in plastic bags may not be accepted by some providers or facilities. Check specific guidelines from your waste provider to recycle correctly and help preserve the environment!
Product of the Month
Silver Deodorant Tubes
SKS recently added a new item to the selection of deodorant tubes. Now offered are silver polypropylene deodorant tubes with matching silver dome caps. These tubes hold 2.65 oz (75 grams) of product. They could be used to package products like deodorant and lotion bars. These tubes feature a turning wheel mechanisms at the base to gradually push product upward for use. Polypropylene is a desirable packaging material for a number of reasons. Polypropylene is durable and resistant to many chemicals. It is also a good barrier against moisture, oil, and alcohol. Polypropylene is similar to HDPE in many ways, but it has a higher melting point and is a stiffer material.