Product category:
Moulding materials
News Release from: MacDermid Autotype | Subject: AUTOFLEX Autoform G180M polycarbonate film
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 08 October 2002
Robots handle non-stick polycarbonate
film
A formable hard-coated polycarbonate film, with superior levels of handle-ability and excellent cosmetic consistency and quality, does not stick when stacked for robotic feeding.
Autotype has added AUTOFLEX Autoform G180M, a formable hard-coated polycarbonate film with superior levels of handle-ability and excellent cosmetic consistency and quality, to its extensive product range The new film is ideal for robot handling as it does not stick when stacked for robotic feeding
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 28 Aug 2002 at 8.00am (UK)
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Automated processing is further enhanced as there is no protective laminate to remove prior to printing.
Designed for in-mold decoration (IMD), AUTOFLEX Autoform G180M comprises a hardcoated high-gloss first surface and a matt second surface supplied without protective laminate, to provide excellent slip characteristics when handled.
The matt second surface becomes completely transparent when back moulded with PC resin.
The new film features a coating designed to allow shallow formability by thermoforming or pressure forming, while retaining its outstanding chemical and abrasion resistant properties to provide a scratch-resistant durable surface.
The film is printed on the underside, formed and trimmed to the shape required and then injection moulded on the reverse to give the required bulk and rigidity.
AUTOFLEX Autoform G180M has a thickness of 180 micron.
Ideal for the lens market, applications for AUTOFLEX Autoform G180M include mobile telephone and pager lenses, phone housings, home appliance fascias, electronics fascias and heater controls found in the automotive industry.
Richard Townsend, Product Manager IMD at Autotype, said: "Traditionally lenses were moulded from impact modified PMMA resin which lacks surface hardness and scuff resistance.
Cosmetic defects and waste could also be introduced by using a spray or dip coating method." He continued, "Using IMD allows the lens to be coated exclusively on the front surface leaving the back free to accept adhesives, inks or resins. Request a free brochure from MacDermid Autotype ...
Finished coating quality is of a superior standard and the hardness is excellent.".
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