HomeNews News How Many Plies Do Kraft Paper Bags Need with Plastic Liner?

How Many Plies Do Kraft Paper Bags Need with Plastic Liner?

2025-09-24

kraft paper bags with plastic liners are widely used in industries that require moisture resistance, strength, and durability—such as cement, chemicals, food ingredients, feedstuff, and coatings. A critical design decision for such bags is the number of plies (layers) of kraft paper used, in conjunction with the plastic liner. The number of plies affects cost, strength, weight, and suitability for various contents.


What Are “Plies” and Why They Matter

ply in paper bag terminology means a layer of kraft paper. More plies typically mean:

  • higher burst strength

  • better puncture resistance

  • greater stacking ability

  • increased durability during handling and transportation

On the flip side, more plies increase cost and weight. The plastic liner (often PE liner) adds moisture barrier properties but only limited strength. So the kraft paper plies must supply most of the mechanical performance.


Common Ply Configurations

Here are typical ply options for kraft paper bags with plastic liners, and when each is appropriate:

Ply CountTypical Use CasesAdvantagesConsiderations
2-Ply (one ply kraft paper + one liner)Light to medium products, non-sharp edges, moderate handling and transportation. E.g. powdered or granulated materials transported short distances.Lower cost, lighter weight, easier to seal and handle.Less puncture and tear resistance; more susceptible to stacking damage; liner must be well-sealed to avoid moisture ingress.
3-PlyHeavy contents, rough handling, longer transport, some stacking required. Also useful for products with sharper edges or abrasive content.Better strength, improved protection; handles more stress from stacking and transportation.More material cost; heavier bag; manufacturing more complex.
4-Ply (or more)Very heavy loads (e.g. cement, minerals), long distances, harsh handling, demands in industrial supply chains.Maximum strength, resistance to puncture, capable of withstanding rough conditions.Highest cost, significant weight; may be overkill for lighter materials.

How to Choose the Right Number of Plies

When selecting plies for a kraft Paper Bag with Plastic Liner, consider:

  1. Weight of the product: Heavier products put more stress on the bag.

  2. Particle shape and abrasiveness: Sharp, angular, or abrasive particles can puncture.

  3. Transportation & handling conditions: Distance, stacking, palletizing, moisture exposure.

  4. Environmental exposure: Rain, humidity, wet handling.

  5. Cost constraints vs. required performance: Balance between material cost vs. risk of product or bag failure.

As a rough guideline:

  • For products under ~ 20-25 kg and relatively gentle handling, 2-ply + liner may suffice.

  • For 25-50 kg, or rougher handling/stacking, 3-ply + liner is safer.

  • For heavy goods (50 kg+), very rough handling, or long‐haul shipping, 4-ply or more is often justified.


Example: What Yingtong Packing Offers

At Yingtong Packing, you can see kraft paper bags with plastic liner offered in 2-ply, 3-ply, and 4-ply varieties. These options allow customers to choose based on the weight/load and durability required. If you need something customized—thicker paper, stronger liner, special printing, or modified structure—Yingtong supports OEM/ODM services to tailor to your exact specifications.


Summary

  • The number of plies for kraft paper bags with plastic liners is a key factor determining strength, durability, and cost.

  • Light and short distance usage → 2-ply; medium → 3-ply; heavy or demanding use → 4-ply or more.

  • Always consider product weight, handling, packaging, environmental exposure.

  • Customization options—like those offered via OEM/ODM—can help you achieve the right balance between performance and cost.



Previous: What Certifications Does a Cement Packaging Bag Manufacturer Need?

Next: What Is the Cost per Ton of Kraft Paper Valve Bags?

Home

Product

Phone

About Us

Inquiry