(Not) scratching the surface: How to protect modern appliance finishes from the rigors of manufacturing, shipping, & storage

From touch controls and wireless connectivity to smart ranges and microwaves that synchronize cooking times, new technology has revolutionized modern appliances, allowing end users to embrace their inner chefs – and inner geeks. At least as impressive as the smartphone-inspired functionality, a wide variety of appliance surfaces and finishes are now available, from retro to industrial, from glossy to matte:

• Fridges, ranges, microwaves and dishwashers in vibrant colors such as blue, pink, red, yellow, green and orange
• White, glossy appliance finishes inspired by smartphones, complemented by stainless steel handles for a fresh, clean look
• Soft bronze appliance finishes, also called champagne or sunset, that are warm and glowing and offer the perfect contrast to the chill of stainless steel
• Dark gray brushed-metal surface finishes that are matte and fingerprint-resistant

With so many different (and expensive) materials, technologies and finishes, the use of protective films during appliance manufacturing, storage and shipping has never been more important. Failing to meet that challenge during production, shipment, warehousing and installation has painful consequences. Appliances that get scratched, dented or otherwise damaged must be scrapped, repaired or sold at a steep discount, all of which hurts the bottom line.

From the lab to the kitchen

Every company wants the same thing out of a temporary protective film, but not just any film is right for every application. Thankfully, a wide variety of films are now available to serve an increasing range of needs.

Protective packaging providers like Pregis Polymask provide film solutions for a wide range of appliance surfaces, stainless steel, painted or specially coated metal and plastics. Films can vary in thickness, adhesion and mechanical properties, depending on the appliance finish and shipping conditions.

Every company wants the same thing out of a temporary protective film, but not just any film is right for every application.

Pregis’ packaging engineers take samples of a customer’s appliance surfaces and develop a PolyMask protective film with the optimal combination of film type, thickness, adhesive, and adhesion level. The ability to customize the film for individual applications ensures the film can be easily applied and removed with no damage to the product or adhesive left behind.

Pregis’ state-of-the-art testing lab will generate a detailed evaluation report and film recommendation for each company. Customers can be provided sample rolls for trial to test the film solution and ensure that it’s just the right fit to claims and rejection rates.          

Pregis’ PolyMask film solutions are tested against heat, humidity and ultraviolet light in an accelerated-aging chamber so they can withstand the specific conditions each product will face. Pregis remains in frequent contact with leading appliance manufacturers to adjust to trends and new surfaces.

Manufactured in the United States, PolyMask can sharply reduce the extended lead times typically quoted by overseas film producers. This capability helps manufacturers reduce inventory and improve speed to market.

Of course, all of those sensitive, high-tech components also require a new level of inside-the-box protection during manufacturing, shipping and storage. Whether you need to cushion your appliances, brace them, fill voids, or wrap them, Pregis offers a complete portfolio of unique and customizable air cushioning, paper and foam packaging solutions. 

It’s a wrap

Pregis’ high-tech testing lab offers companies a different kind of film school – one that takes the drama and suspense out of manufacturing, shipping, storing and installing modern appliances. And with an innovative suite of films, unparalleled customer service and the largest sales team in the industry, they are poised to satisfy customers’ wide range of needs.  

To learn more about Pregis’ temporary protective films, visit https://www.pregis.com/temporary-protection-films/