The Difference between Sleeving with a Band vs. Paperboard

09.16.19

Using packaging as a form of labeling has become increasingly popular. A great way to label products is with a sleeve!

Two forms of sleeving include ultrasonic banding and traditional paperboard sleeves. Trying to decide which of these options is best for your business can be challenging.

So, let’s go over the differences:

TENSION:

Ultrasonic Banding:

Ultrasonic banding machines use tension to securely apply a paper or plastic band around the product(s) and then, with an ultrasonic weld, the band is sealed to itself. The amount of tension applied to the product(s) can be easily adjusted and a single banding machine can band various products with various tension needs.

Traditional Paperboard:

Paperboard sleeves are not applied with tension, and for this reason, provide a looser hold around the product. The looser hold can cause products to slip out of this packaging. To overcome this challenge, tabs and notches can be implemented into the sleeve, but these can make applying the sleeve to the product a more difficult and tedious process.

MATERIALS:

Ultrasonic Banding:

There are various materials that can be used while banding. Paper, plastic, recyclable, compostable & pre-printed material are some of our most popular, but we offer other options as well. See here for our full material list.

Traditional Paperboard:

Paperboard (as suggested in the name) is made from a paper substrate. Paperboard sleeves tend to use a thicker paper for a shell-like form.

ADHESIVES:

Ultrasonic Banding:

Banding requires no adhesives, stickers or glues! Because ultrasonic banding is wrapped fully around the product with tension and then ultrasonically welded to itself there is no need for adhesives! The secure, yet gentle hold of ultrasonic banding prevents the sleeve from sliding off the product.

Traditional Paperboard:

Paperboard regularly requires an adhesive, glue or sticker to seal the sleeve to itself. This can allow for dirt, hair or other particles to stick to the sleeve.

RECYCLABILITY:

Ultrasonic Banding:

All of Felins’ banding materials are 100% recyclable. Plus, our paper materials are pulpable!

Traditional Paperboard:

The paper used in the paperboard is recyclable, however the adhesives may not be. This could require consumers to either remove the adhesives or place the packaging in the trash.

Interested in hearing more about the benefits of banding? Talk with one of our experts!