White film eliminates opaque topcoat for bar code labels

Responding to customer requests for an opaque, high-performance plastic film that would eliminate the need for surface treatments to achieve satisfactory print contrast in bar code labels, GE - Plastics, working in conjunction with their global customers, has developed a new white grade of its Ultem* polyetherimide (PEI) film. White Ultem WH217 film is pigmented for high opacity to ensure bar code labels can be read correctly ¿ the film provides a print contrast ratio of 98 percent out of 100. In addition to helping saving label manufacturers the expense and time required to apply an opaque topcoat, Ultem WH217 film provides flame retardance that is lacking in competitive PEN films, and offers higher temperature resistance and better dimensional stability than polyvinyl fluoride films. In developing this product, GE - Plastics worked closely with leading global manufacturers of pressure-sensitive films and adhesives to provide feedback on the development of the product.

"To track electronic or automotive components with speed and precision, OEMs need bar code labels that can be read accurately the first time," said Nick Abbatiello, GE - Plastics' industry manager, High Performance Film. "In the past, it was usually necessary to modify translucent films to prevent the substrate under the label from showing through and to improve print contrast. Now, with GE's opaque Ultem WH217 film, this step isn't needed ¿ and that may save our customers time and money."

GE's Ultem WH217 film meets UL 94 VTMO flame requirements without the use of halogenated additives, enabling the material to comply with European RoHS standards, making it an excellent candidate for electronic applications. It offers excellent tear strength to prevent label damage during processing, and high temperature resistance for demanding applications such as printed circuit boards. In addition, the smoothness of the surface of the film may improve the print quality of the label.

For label manufacturers, GE's Ultem WH217 film provides consistent thickness (+/- 10 percent gauge control at 50 µm) that helps ensure even application of label adhesive or clear coatings that may be needed for print receptivity with certain inks.

* Ultem, LNP, and Lexan are trademarks of General Electric Company.