How thick are resealable bags and what are the units of measurement used?

The accepted UK standard for smaller domestic usage ziplock/grip seal polythene bags is 40 microns.
30, 45 and 50 micron versions are also available
.
Science and industry often require 50 micron as a minimum and the heavy bags that you find displaying
screws and bolts in hardware stores could be 100 microns or more.

The US industry standard for ziplock bags is 2 mil or 50.8 microns. Heavier 4 mil (101.6 microns) are
also available.

What is a micron?

Micron is shorthand for micromillimetre (mµ).

1 millimetre = 1,000 microns.

 

What is a mil?

A unit of measurement used in the US.
1 inch =1,000 mils.

What is Gauge?

Another unit of measurement is Gauge as used in describing the thickness of sheet metal, for example.
160 gauge = 40 microns
180 gauge = 45 microns
200 gauge = 50 microns
400 gauge = 100 microns

If you found this short guide useful, please vote Yes below.