VCI Corrosion Protection Film BRANOfol M4 60 µm – Nitrite-free, approved, long-lasting

What is BRANOfol M4 60 µm and how does VCI corrosion protection work?

BRANOfol M4 60 µm is a VCI corrosion protection film based on polyethylene, offering double-sided active VCI corrosion protection. VCI stands for Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors. The film releases VCI inhibitors in a controlled manner until an effective protective atmosphere has built up inside the packaging, protecting metals from corrosion during transport and storage.

A key advantage over conventional protective films: BRANOfol M4 60 µm builds up this protective atmosphere significantly faster, without compromising long-term protection. If the packaging is briefly opened – for example during individual part removal – the protective atmosphere regenerates completely afterwards. It should be noted that certain materials such as cast iron are only protected on contact; for other metal parts inside the packaging, the protective atmosphere also acts without direct film contact.

For qualities ≥ 60 µm, a VW approval with top rating 2.0 is in place.

Nitrite-free and TRGS 615-compliant – safety without compromise

BRANOfol M4 60 µm is completely nitrite-free and complies with TRGS 615. In addition, the film is not a hazardous substance within the meaning of the REACH Regulation – there is no obligation for CLP classification or labelling, and no obligation to prepare a safety data sheet. Monitoring in accordance with TRGS 900 is not required.

For companies, this means: no CLP obligations, no TRGS 900 monitoring, and a clear compliance basis for workplaces where corresponding requirements apply – with no restrictions on protective performance.

Long-term protection up to 24 months: which metals is BRANOfol M4 suitable for?

BRANOfol M4 60 µm protects packaged metal parts from corrosion for up to 24 months in standard applications. For special requirements – such as the long-term stockpiling of component series – long-term preservation of more than 10 years is also possible, provided the application is well understood.

The film protects both ferrous and non-ferrous metals:

• Ferrous metals: Steel, iron and cast iron – whereby cast iron is only protected on contact.
• Further metals: Galvanised steel, tin, aluminium, chromium and zinc.
• Non-ferrous metals: Copper and its alloys are effectively protected from corrosion by the VCI atmosphere inside the packaging.

This broad metal protection makes BRANOfol M4 60 µm particularly suitable for assemblies and packages that combine different materials in a single packaging unit.

Reduced material usage: the ultra-thin 60 µm variant compared

The 60 µm variant reduces material usage compared to thicker films. In purely mathematical terms, the film thickness is 40% lower compared to a 100 µm film – at comparable surface area. Possible effects in practice:

• Less plastic per packaging unit
• Potential reduction of material costs with unchanged protective performance
• Lower film mass may have an impact on disposal costs
• Smaller roll weights at the same running length may facilitate handling in automated systems

Despite the reduced wall thickness, the protective performance of the 60 µm variant is not compromised: the film offers a significantly accelerated build-up time with unchanged long-term protection.

Technical properties and processability – from the roll to the automated line

BRANOfol M4 60 µm convinces not only through its protective performance, but also through its processing properties, which are designed for industrial requirements:

Waterproof and weldable: The film is completely waterproof and can be processed into bags or tubing using common welding methods. This enables individual converting directly at the packaging station.

Suitable for automated packaging systems: BRANOfol M4 60 µm is suitable for use in automated packaging machines and for bag production.

Excellent optical film appearance: Due to very low light scattering, the film offers high transparency. The packaged metal parts are clearly visible from the outside, facilitating identification without opening the packaging.

Customisation via BRANOmodul: Using additives from the BRANOmodul system, BRANOfol M4 60 µm can be equipped with additional functional properties – such as shrinkability, high tear resistance, electrical conductivity, UV stability or flame retardancy. Individual prints and various film colours are also available.

Typical fields of application: mechanical engineering, automotive and export packaging

BRANOfol M4 60 µm is suitable wherever metal components need to be effectively protected from corrosion during transport or storage – particularly where nitrite-free solutions are required or automated packaging processes are in use.

Mechanical engineering: Metal parts and components can be packaged with BRANOfol M4 60 µm prior to delivery or storage. The rapid protective atmosphere and long-term protection of up to 24 months cover typical storage and delivery periods.

Automotive and supplier industry: The VW approval with top rating 2.0 (for qualities ≥ 60 µm) makes BRANOfol M4 60 µm a suitable solution in the automotive environment. OEM suppliers who need to meet the requirements of their customers benefit from the existing approval.

Export packaging and international supply chains: For long transport routes, climate changes and uncertain storage periods, BRANOfol M4 60 µm provides reliable protection over several months through its regenerating protective atmosphere and temporary corrosion protection.

Long-term storage and preservation: For the long-term stockpiling of component series or the preservation of assemblies over several years, BRANOfol M4 60 µm – in combination with the right application strategy – is a suitable solution.

*The content on this page was generated in part with AI support and reviewed by editors.