Plastic Film eliminates opaque topcoat for bar code labels.June 9, 2006 -
Pigmented for high opacity, White Ultem WH217 ensures bar code labels can be read correctly. Polyetherimide (PEI) film provides print contrast ratio of 98% and is also flame retardant. Suited for electronic applications, product exhibits dimensional stability and meets RoHS standards. Consistent thickness (±10% gauge control at 50 µm) allows even application of label adhesive or clear coatings that may be needed when using certain inks.
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Original Press release
GE Company GE Plastics
One Plastics Ave.
Pittsfield, MA, 01201
USA
GE Introduces New White Ultem Film which Eliminates Opaque Topcoat for Bar Code Labels
PITTSFIELD, MASS. - May 8, 2006 - 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.
About GE Plastics
GE Plastics is a global supplier of plastic resins widely used in automotive, healthcare, consumer electronics, transportation, performance packaging, building & construction, telecommunications, and optical media applications. The company manufactures and compounds polycarbonate, ABS, SAN, ASA, PPE, PC/ABS, PBT and PEI resins, as well as the LNP* line of high-performance specialty compounds. GE Plastics, Specialty Film & Sheet manufactures high-performance Lexan* sheet and film products used in thousands of demanding applications worldwide. In addition, GE Plastics' dedicated Automotive organization is an experienced, world-wide competitor, offering leading plastics solutions for five key automotive segments: body panels and glazing; under the hood applications; component; structures and interiors; and lighting. As a Worldwide Partner of the Olympic Games, GE is the exclusive provider of a wide range of innovative products and services that are integral to a successful Games.
* Ultem, LNP, and Lexan are trademarks of General Electric Company.
Contacts
The Americas
Christopher Tessier
GE Plastics, Pittsfield, Mass.
Tel: +1-413-448-6926
E-Mail: christopher.tessier@ge.com
Agency Contacts
The Americas
Jim Allison
AH&M Marketing Communications,
Pittsfield, Mass.
Tel: +1-413-448-2260, Ext. 25
E-Mail: jallison@ahminc.com
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