Product category:
Materials and components
News Release from: MacDermid Autotype | Subject: Autotex XE
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 30 July 2003
Polyester film goes to extremes
Autotype has upgraded its existing Autotex UV textured polyester film to offer exceptional performance under extreme operating conditions.
Autotype has upgraded its existing Autotex UV textured polyester film to offer exceptional performance under extreme operating conditions Renamed Autotex XE, the upgraded film has been developed for applications where high or widely fluctuating temperatures, excessive humidity and strong levels of ultraviolet light are encountered and is ideal for nameplates, labels, panels and fasciae
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 3 Dec 2003 at 8.00am (UK)
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Polyester film ousts aluminium
Performance Ink has chosen Autotex XE textured polyester film as the preferred substrate for its new and patented VersiPlate replacement product for aluminium nameplates.
UV-stabilised film suits sun bed controls
While UV stabilised polyester is usually aimed for outdoor applications, Autotype's Autotex XE is being used for a range of membrane touch switches for sun bed controls.
XE stands for extreme environment, and typical applications for the new material are as a substrate for instrument, fascia and membrane switch panels that are used in outdoor or harsh industrial conditions.
Autotex XE is a polyester-based film, with specially constructed hardcoat and primer layers.
Unlike conventional films, however, that can delaminate, become brittle or flake under extreme conditions, the various layers in Autotex XE are formulated to resist ultraviolet light, moisture and wide variations in temperature.
Previous Autotex versions could only withstand a maximum operating temperature of 40C in high humidity conditions of 80% RH.
The new primer technology introduced in Autotex XE enables the film to be used at an operating temperature of 85C at a humidity level of 85% RH, without any degradation.
Conventional films without the special Autotype UV resistance go brittle and yellow very quickly when subjected to UV light.
In contrast, Autotex XE is extremely resistant to the effects of ultraviolet light, extending operating life by more than 300% compared with conventional textured polyester films.
In addition, the new material offers excellent mechanical and optical properties, with switch life in tactile membrane systems being tested to in excess of five million actuations.
Autotex XE forms part of the Autotex family of screen printable films, which offer superior scratch and chemical resistance and ink adhesion.
They are easy to handle and process and available in a range of gauges and roll widths. Request a free brochure from MacDermid Autotype ...
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