Knitted Tubular Netting vs. Extruded Netting: Key Differences

1. How Knitted Tubular Netting and Extruded Netting Are Made

Knitted tubular netting and extruded netting can look similar at first. Both have an open mesh structure, and both are used for packaging, protection, and handling. But the way they are made is different, which affects how they behave in use.

**Knitted tubular netting** is made by forming yarns or plastic filaments into interconnected loops. These loops create a flexible tube with openings between the knitted strands. The structure can expand, contract, and adjust to different product shapes. PE (polyethylene) is a common material for this type of netting.

**Extruded netting** is made by pushing molten plastic through a die to form a mesh structure. The strands and connecting points are formed as part of the extrusion process. Depending on the production method and material, extruded netting may have a more fixed mesh pattern and a firmer feel.

The main difference is the structure: knitted netting uses interconnected loops, while extruded netting uses an integrated plastic mesh structure. Neither type is automatically better. The right choice depends on the product, packing method, and working conditions.

2. Flexibility, Stretch, and Handling Differences

Flexibility is often the first thing buyers notice when comparing these two materials.

Knitted tubular netting generally offers more flexibility because its loop structure can move and adjust under pressure. This is useful when packing products with different shapes or sizes. For example, onions, potatoes, garlic, and citrus fruit are not always uniform. A flexible net can fit around the contents without requiring every item to have exactly the same dimensions.

Extruded netting generally retains its mesh geometry more consistently. Its flexibility depends on the polymer, strand thickness, mesh design, and production process. Some versions are relatively rigid, while others can bend and stretch to a degree.

There are a few practical points worth checking:

• **Stretch and recovery:** Ask how much the netting can expand and whether it returns to its original shape after loading.
• **Opening size:** Check the actual mesh openings, not just the nominal dimensions. Small products may slip through openings that are too large.
• **Edge behavior:** Cut edges should not create problems during filling, transport, or handling.
• **Load distribution:** Consider whether the netting can support the product evenly without excessive deformation.
• **Surface contact:** Delicate fruit may need a structure that reduces pressure points and avoids unnecessary abrasion.

One common mistake is to judge flexibility by hand feel alone. A sample may feel soft when empty but behave differently when filled. Always test the material with the actual product and intended packing weight.

3. Industrial Applications: Which Type Fits the Job?

The two structures serve different needs across packaging and industrial handling.

**Knitted tubular netting for produce packaging**

Knitted tubular netting is commonly used for fresh produce because it can accommodate irregular shapes and is available in different tube sizes and mesh openings.

Typical applications include:

• Onion and potato netting for retail and bulk produce packaging.
• Citrus and fruit netting for products that need ventilation during storage and transport.
• Garlic and chilli netting for smaller agricultural products.
• PE tubular knitted netting for general packaging requirements where a flexible tubular structure is useful.

For these applications, the important factors are product size, filling speed, package weight, ventilation, and how the finished bag will be closed.

**Extruded netting for industrial and protective uses**

Extruded netting is used in a range of applications where a defined mesh structure is needed. Depending on the material and design, it may be suitable for protective wrapping, separation, filtration support, and certain industrial packaging tasks.

Industrial baling netting is another application worth considering separately. Buyers should not assume that all open-mesh materials can handle the same baling conditions. The net must match the equipment, bale dimensions, compression forces, and required handling strength.

For either type, the application matters more than the product name. A netting material that works well for lightweight fruit packaging may not be suitable for heavy industrial loads.

4. How to Choose and What to Confirm with Your Supplier

Before requesting a quotation, define the job clearly. This makes it easier to compare materials and reduces the risk of ordering netting that looks right but performs poorly.

Use the following checklist:

**1. Identify the product being packed.**

Provide the product type, approximate dimensions, shape, and weight. For agricultural packaging, mention whether the contents are uniform or mixed in size.

**2. Confirm the required structure.**

Ask whether knitted tubular netting or extruded netting is more suitable for the intended application. If flexibility is important, request a physical sample of the knitted structure.

**3. Specify mesh and tube dimensions.**

Discuss the tube width or diameter, mesh opening, and strand construction. Do not compare products using only a general description such as fine mesh or heavy-duty mesh.

**4. Check material and performance requirements.**

Confirm the polymer type, expected load, stretching behavior, ventilation needs, and resistance to the conditions during storage and transport. If the netting will be exposed to sunlight, moisture, or temperature changes, explain this before production.

**5. Check compatibility with packing equipment.**

If you use a manual or semi-automatic net bag packing machine, confirm that the netting dimensions, feeding behavior, and roll or package format are compatible with the equipment. A material that works well by hand may not feed smoothly through a machine.

**6. Request samples and conduct a packing test.**

Fill the sample with your actual product. Check whether the net stretches too much, whether items can escape, whether the package is easy to close, and whether it remains stable during normal handling.

Also ask the supplier to confirm production tolerances, available customization options, packaging format, and lead time. Specific dimensions, material grades, and performance requirements should be agreed on before production. Any general industry size or performance range is only a starting point; **final specifications should be based on the actual custom order**.

5. Final Recommendation

If your priority is a flexible tube that adjusts to different product shapes, knitted tubular netting is usually the more practical starting point. It is particularly relevant for onions, potatoes, citrus fruit, garlic, and other produce packaging. If your application needs a more defined mesh structure, extruded netting may be worth evaluating instead.

Do not make the decision based on appearance or price alone. Compare samples under real working conditions, check compatibility with your packing equipment, and confirm the required dimensions and load conditions with your supplier.

If you are unsure which structure fits your application, share your product type, package weight, required mesh size, and packing method with the Knitted Tubular Net team. A discussion based on these details can help narrow down the suitable netting construction and customization options before you place an order.