The Significance of Using Protective Films on Aluminum Profiles
Protective film is essential for safeguarding surfaces, particularly aluminum profiles, during various handling stages. According to recent searches, protective films are crucial for ensuring that aluminum products retain their quality and aesthetic appeal. They serve as a barrier against scratches and environmental damage during storage, transportation, and manufacturing processes.
The structure and material characteristics of the protective film
Film
Protective films are typically made using polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as raw materials. Various manufacturing techniques like extrusion, injection, and blow molding are employed. Given its cost-effectiveness and environmental advantages, around 90% of these films are composed of polyethylene, predominantly produced through blow molding. Different types of polyethylene come with varying melting points and densities.
Adhesive
The effectiveness of aluminum profile protective films depends significantly on the adhesive utilized. There are two primary types of pressure-sensitive adhesives: solvent-based polyacrylate glue and water-soluble polyacrylate glue, each offering unique features.
Solvent-based polyacrylate glue
This adhesive uses organic solvents to dissolve acrylic monomers, resulting in a highly transparent solution with low initial viscosity. It exhibits remarkable aging resistance and can last up to 10 years when exposed to ultraviolet light. However, this glue can be challenging to work with as it requires time for full adhesion, often taking 30 to 60 days for optimal bonding, leading to difficulties in removal if the viscosity is too high.
Water-soluble polyacrylate glue
Similar to its solvent-based counterpart, this glue dissolves acrylic monomers in water. However, it requires careful handling to avoid contact with moisture and air, making it an environmentally friendly option favored in developing regions since it does not necessitate solvent recovery systems.
Production of Protective Film
Production Process
The manufacturing of protective film begins with feeding polyethylene particles into a heated drum, where a screw pushes the materials toward a round die head. Compressed air is then used to create a molten film, which is air-cooled and rolled. The blown film has unique mechanical properties that differ in transverse and longitudinal directions, exhibiting elongation over 180% in machine direction and over 380% transversely. However, high elongation can decrease mechanical strength, making the film prone to damage during transport.
The application machines for aluminum profile films often incorporate technology to minimize bubbles and wrinkles. For low-viscosity films, maintaining low tension during unwinding is essential to prevent warping. Applying the film should be above 10°C, and careful attention to the tearing temperature ensures optimal performance.
Application of Protective Film in the Aluminum Industry
A protective film is applied to aluminum surfaces to safeguard them during processing stages such as handling, storage, and transportation. After installation, removal of the film reveals a flawless surface and ensures that the desired aesthetic is achieved.
Aluminum profiles are available in various forms, alongside an evolving range of surface treatment technologies, including anodizing, polishing, and coating methods. Different aluminum surfaces require specific adhesive protective films, ranging from low to extra-high viscosity, available in diverse colors and thicknesses. Proper film selection is influenced by surface treatment type, requiring adequate setting time to ensure robust adhesion before removal.
In subsequent processes like cutting and drilling, selecting the right viscosity is crucial: low viscosity suits smooth surfaces, while high viscosity is necessary for rough or heat-affected areas like in laser cutting. Additionally, users should assess tensile strength and elongation of the film to meet the specific application needs.