What is polyester film and what properties does it have?
Definition and properties
Polyester film is manufactured from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a thermoplastic characterised by excellent strength, chemical resistance and electrical dielectric strength. Typical properties include:
- High strength and tear resistance: ideal for demanding applications.
- Thermally stable: withstands temperatures up to 200 degrees C.
- Chemically resistant: resistant to oils, greases and solvents.
- Electrically insulating: outstanding for electrical applications.
What types of polyester films exist?
- Transparent polyester films: often used for packaging and printing.
- Translucent polyester films: offer higher opacity and are often used for insulation purposes.
- White polyester films: perfect for applications requiring opacity.
Technical properties of PET films
- High dielectric strength: ideal for electronics.
- Moisture resistance: optimal for applications with high humidity.
- Mechanical load capacity: suitable for applications with heavy loads.
How do translucent and white polyester films differ?
- Translucent polyester films: have a slightly milky appearance and are translucent, making them suitable for technical applications such as electrical insulation.
- White polyester films: are opaque and are often used in packaging or as a visual barrier.
How is polyester film processed?
Material and manufacturing
Polyester film is produced from PET granulate, which is processed by extrusion and stretching into biaxially oriented films. This process gives the film its special properties such as high tear strength and thermal stability.
Processing of PET films
Processing is carried out by:
- Cutting: precise cutting to desired formats and sizes.
- Printing: high-quality printing processes for packaging or technical applications.
- Self-adhesive finishing: coating with adhesive for simple applications.
Special processing techniques
- Laser processing: for precise cuts and engravings.
- Thermoforming: for 3D applications.
- Die cutting: for accurately sized components.
- Slitting: we offer roll slitting as a service.
Which applications exist for polyester film?
Where is self-adhesive polyester film used?
Self-adhesive films are often used in signage, automotive or the packaging industry.
In which industries are polyester films particularly in demand?
- Electronics: as insulation material for cables and components.
- Packaging industry: for flexible and stable packaging.
- Construction industry: as a vapour barrier or protective film.
Advantages of use in packaging
Polyester film is tear resistant, lightweight and moisture resistant, making it ideal for food and pharmaceutical packaging.
How can you purchase polyester films and which thicknesses are available?
Where can you order polyester film online?
Polyester films can be ordered from specialist suppliers and online platforms that offer a broad range of thicknesses and formats. You can also request custom-cut polyester film from Gotthardt Isolierteile GmbH.
Which thicknesses are available for polyester films?
Typical thicknesses range from 10 micrometres (very thin) to 500 micrometres (heavy duty). Thinner films are often used for packaging, while thicker films find application in electronics and construction.
How do you select the right film for the respective application?
- Thin films: for flexible applications such as packaging.
- Medium thicknesses: for insulation and protective layers.
- Thicker films: for mechanically demanding applications.
What are the differences between biaxially oriented polyester films and other types?
Advantages of biaxially oriented polyester films
- Increased tear strength: thanks to stretching in two directions.
- Thermal stability: ideal for applications at high temperatures.
- High transparency: perfect for visually appealing applications.
How does orientation influence the properties of the film?
Biaxial orientation ensures uniform properties in all directions, which makes the films particularly stable and versatile.
In which applications are these films particularly beneficial?
- Insulation material: in electronics and electrical engineering.
- Food packaging: longer shelf life and optimal protection.
- Decorative applications: due to high transparency and printability.
GOBA Takeaway
Polyester films are indispensable in many industries and applications. Their combination of mechanical strength, chemical resistance and thermal stability makes them one of the most versatile plastics worldwide. Whether for packaging, electronics or construction, polyester film offers solutions perfectly matched to the respective requirements.