Is PE Film the Most Cost-Effective Choice for Molded Fiber Tray Lamination?
PE (polyethylene) film is laminated at ~120 °C and withstands 100–120 °C after lamination. Fully transparent, easy to heat-seal and the lowest-cost option — the mainstream lamination for frozen, chilled and dry-food molded fiber trays.
Key Characteristics of PE Film
Fully transparent
Fully transparent lamination clearly showcases the food inside the tray.
Low lamination temperature
Lamination at ~120 °C — low energy draw and fast line speed.
Frozen and chilled
Withstands 100–120 °C after lamination — suited to frozen, chilled and dry-food scenarios.
Colored and printed
Colored film to color swatch (MOQ 3000 kg); printed film — fewer than 3 colors recommended.
Typical PE Film Parameters
Data from the DNW film information sheet (2026); resistance values vary by supplier and test conditions — verify by testing.
| Film type | PE (polyethylene) film |
|---|---|
| Thickness range | 0.03 – 0.10 mm |
| Width | 810 – 1080 mm |
| Density | 0.95 g/cm³ |
| Lamination temperature | ~120 °C |
| Post-lamination resistance (oven) | 100 – 120 °C |
| Barrier performance | Water "So so" / Oil "So so" / Alcohol "Poor" |
| Sealing film | PET + PE composite film |
| Appearance | Fully transparent |
| MOQ | Transparent / Printed 1000 kg · Colored 3000 kg |
| Typical applications | Frozen / chilled · Dry food · General food trays |
PE Lamination FAQ
Is PE lamination oil-resistant?
Limited. The information sheet rates oil resistance as "So so" — for fatty foods, choose PP (oil "Good") or CPET (all three barriers "Excellent").
What sealing film pairs with PE?
PET + PE composite film; for clean full-peel opening, choose an easy-peel version.
Is PE compostable?
No. For compostable scenarios see the PLA / PBAT pages — both carry the EN 13432 industrial composting certificate.
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