Intro to Can Liners

There are many different terms used when describing can liners. Here is a glossary of the most used.

Can Liner Bottom Seals

Star Seals

• Most common can liner seal available, evenly distributes trash
• ‘Star’ seal eliminates gaps along the seal & prevents leaks
• Maximize carrying capacity & conform to the inside of a waste receptacle

Gusset Seals

• Flat bag, with gussets formed on the sides where the liner is tucked in
• Have a tendency to leak from the center where the four layers of film meet two at the gusset points

Flat Seals

• Sealed on one end like a pillow case without gussets
• Do not conform to the inside of a waste receptacle
• Have a tendency to leak in the corners

Gauges

• Mil (one thousandths of an inch): Term used in the measurement of LDPE or LLDPE can liners; range between 0.35 to 4.0 mil
• Micron: Term used in the measurement of HMW-HDPE can liners; range between 6 to 24 microns

Density Types

• LLDPE (Linear Low Density Polyethylene): Primary type of resin used in modern can liner manufacturing technology. Excellent combination of film strength, puncture resistance and tear resistance.
• HDPE (High Density Polyethylene): Provides excellent film strength and puncture resistance, but less tear resistance than LLDPE.