Aluminum coil packaging is primarily designed around two core objectives: product protection (preventing scratches, rust, and collisions) and ease of storage and transportation (loading, unloading, stacking and securing). Common packaging methods, based on transportation scenarios (domestic/export) and storage requirements, are as follows:
1. Orientation ("eye" refers to the inner hole of the aluminum coil).
- Eye To Sky:
This means the inner hole of the aluminum coil faces vertically upward (the axis is perpendicular to the ground), meaning the coil is stored flat. This method offers enhanced stability and allows for stacking (requiring padding between layers to prevent deformation). It is suitable for heavy single coils or short-distance transport, as it reduces the risk of rolling.
- Eye To Wall:
This means the inner hole of the aluminum coil faces the wall (the axis is parallel to the ground), meaning the coil is stored upright, typically against a wall or secured with a bracket. This saves space (especially in warehouses) and is suitable for densely stacked coils. However, secure mounting is required to prevent tipping.
2. Basic Protective Packaging (Core to Prevent Damage and Rust)
Regardless of the storage method, a basic protective layer is essential. Common materials include:
- Stretch film: The outer layer protects against dust and moisture, and also secures the inner packaging.
- Kraft paper/Rust-proof paper: In direct contact with the aluminum coil surface, kraft paper is abrasion-resistant and scratch-resistant, while rust-proof paper (containing vapor-phase rust inhibitors) prevents oxidation and rust (especially in humid environments or during long-term storage).
- Padding: Between aluminum coils or in contact with packaging racks, pearl cotton, rubber pads, etc. are commonly used to prevent scratches caused by hard contact.
3. Domestic Transportation/Storage Packaging (Emphasis on Convenience)
- Pallet packaging: Single or multiple aluminum coils are secured to a wooden or plastic pallet and wrapped with stretch film. This facilitates forklift loading and unloading, making it suitable for short-distance truck transport.
- Simple rack mounting: When multiple coils are stored vertically (facing the wall), they are secured with angle steel or wooden racks to prevent rolling. This is commonly used for temporary storage in warehouses.
4. Export Packaging (Focusing on Compliance and Long-Distance Protection)
Exports require long distances and multiple stages (sea/air transport), requiring stronger packaging that complies with international quarantine standards (such as IPPC fumigation requirements). Common methods include:
- Kraft Paper + Fumigated Wooden Frames: The inner layer is wrapped with kraft paper and rust-proof paper, secured with fumigated solid wooden frames (with the IPPC logo). The wooden frames are strong and prevent deformation during transportation.
- Fully Enclosed Wooden Boxes: For thin (scratch-prone) or high-value-added aluminum coils, fully enclosed fumigated wooden boxes are used. Internal cushioning materials (such as foam) provide enhanced moisture and pressure resistance.
- Rust-Reinforcement: Some export aluminum coils are sprayed with rust-proof oil or contain desiccant to withstand the high humidity of ocean shipping.
5. Special Scenario Packaging
- Ultra-thin aluminum coils (thickness <0.1mm): Soft materials (such as acid-free paper) are used to separate the coils in layers to prevent wrinkles caused by folding or squeezing. Custom iron frames are used to secure the outer layers to prevent deformation.
- Color coated aluminum coils (with a surface coating): Must be wrapped in acid-free, rust-proof paper to prevent corrosion or scratching of the coating. Rubber pads should be used to isolate the contact area between the packaging rack and the aluminum coil.
In short, the packaging of aluminum coils should be selected based on a comprehensive consideration of transportation distance, storage environment, and product characteristics (thickness, surface condition). The key is to balance protection, cost and regulatory compliance.
