Extrusion lamination is a converting process that allows two different materials to be combined in-line to achieve a multi-layer sheet structure. During the extrusion lamination process, the selected polymer is extruded through the die in the form of a sheet and acts as the substrate for the film to be laminated onto. When the sheet and the film meet, the sheet still carries a good amount of heat, which allows the film to bond to the surface of the sheet via heat transfer. To ensure the substrate and film bond together, the film often carries what is known as a tie layer, which acts as a compatible layer that allows the substrate and film to bond together. This tie-layer is key to ensure that the film does not de-laminate over time.
At Impact Plastics, we use our proprietary in-line extrusion lamination system to help our customers achieve specific oxygen and moisture barrier requirements or to laminate pattern films for display applications. Below are some of the films available:
EVOH:
Ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) is a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl alcohol. This material is commonly used as an oxygen barrier for food packaging applications.This material is superior to any other plastics when it comes to keeping air out and flavors in, is transparent, weather resistant, oil and solvent resistant, flexible, moldable, recyclable and printable. Because of the cost of EVOH, it is most often used in a thin layer that is either coextruded or laminated onto other materials.
Decorative films can be used to add a pattern or finish to the material for a specific aesthetic look. Customer have requested films with a wood grain look or printed with a specialty design for holiday applications or promotional items.
Mylar Film:
Mylar® is a Dupont® developed and manufactured oriented, multi-use versatile PET film that can be manufactured in a range of different styles, finishes and thicknesses. This material does not become brittle with age and is dimensionally stable, chemically resistant, moisture resistant, and offers color consistency and good clarity. This material will not yellow or tear and is suitable for temperatures ranging from -100 – 300° F.
Acrylic Film:
Interested in a film that didn't make the list? Contact our team today to discuss the possibilities for your application!