Gusseted Layflat Tubing (LFT) offers a customisable solution for items that require a snug, right-sized fit. This unique type of polythene tubing is especially useful for packaging long, narrow items – offering improved space-saving, load stability, and optimised material use.
But what exactly is gusseted LFT, and how does it work?
What is gusseted layflat tubing?
Layflat tubing is a continuous roll of polythene tubing that can be cut and sealed to the desired length. It provides a flexible and tuneable packaging option for long or irregularly shaped products. Think of it as a long bag with no bottom, so you make it as long or short as you want.
Gusseted LFT has folds (AKA gussets) on either side, allowing the tubing to expand to a wider circumference and better conform to the shape of the packaged product. The gussets in gusseted LFT make it ideal for situations where space-saving and load stability are important, particularly in transport – and also make sizing calculations easier.
What is a gusset on a bag?
Gusseted bags are also available. Just like on LFT, the gusset is a folded section on each side of a bag that expands when filled, increasing the interior capacity without changing the exterior dimensions significantly. In gusseted bags these folds provide more space inside, and can allow the bag to stand unaided. By expanding and adjusting to the product’s shape, gussets help create a more stable and secure fit.
Read more: Gusseted Bags: Each Type, Explained
Benefits of gusseted LFT: space-saving and load stability
The expandability of gusseted LFT allows the tubing to achieve a wider variety of cross-section shapes when filled – and allows a more precise fit for cylindrical objects. One of the primary advantages of gusseted LFT is its space-saving capability. Since the tubing conforms to the shape of the product, there’s less wasted space inside the packaging. This not only saves on material costs but also reduces the need for additional packing fillers, such as paper or foam, to stabilise the product inside.
Additionally, the gusseted design promotes load stability in transport. By wrapping closely around the product, gusseted LFT minimises the movement of stacked products in transit – providing better protection and reducing the risk of damage. This feature is particularly beneficial when shipping items that are prone to shifting during transit, as it helps maintain balance and prevents tipping.
Right-sized packaging for long and narrow items
One common application for gusseted LFT is in packaging long, narrow items. Standard packaging methods may leave excess space or require more materials, but gusseted LFT offers a custom fit. The tubing’s adjustable length allows it to be cut to size, while the gussets enable a snug wrap around products like rods, pipes, or even square-section and machined parts.
And right-sized packaging benefits the environment, too, by reducing material waste and making more efficient use of resources. By choosing gusseted LFT for these products, companies can cut down on excess material, lower their shipping costs, and create a more environmentally-friendly packaging solution.
Calculating size for gusseted layflat tubing
When it comes to selecting the right size for gusseted LFT, a different calculation may be needed compared to standard layflat tubing. In non-gusseted LFT, the calculation must take into account that the opened LFT will have different dimensions than when flat.
To calculate the width of non-gusseted LFT you need, you first need to know the product’s diameter. Multiply that required diameter by Pi (3.14159), then divide this measurement by 2 (because LFT is folded flat).
Learn how to use LFT and calculate required width
However, with gusseted LFT, the gussets add extra width, allowing the tubing to match or even exceed the circumference of the product it’s intended to cover.
To calculate the correct size, it’s essential to consider both the flat width and the expanded width, taking into account the gusset depth. This approach ensures that the tubing will accommodate the product’s dimensions once the gussets are fully expanded.
All gusseted LFT is made to spec, so measurements will vary. If you need help calculating the size you need, just get in touch.
Polythene gusseted LFT – for custom, efficient packaging
Talk to the polythene experts at NPF Packaging, and design your own custom packaging – including polythene gusseted LFT. Enquire online to get a quote now, or call us on 01773 820415 to find out more about our manufacturing and design process.
