Guide
Enhancing Performance with Corona Treated Fluted Plastic
In today’s fast-paced world, materials that combine durability, versatility, and sustainability are essential. Corona treated fluted plastic stands out as a remarkable solution, widely used in various industries, from packaging to signage. This guide delves into the unique properties of this material, exploring its treatment process and applications.
Readers can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of how corona treatment enhances the performance of fluted plastic. We will cover its benefits, including improved printability and adhesion, making it a preferred choice for many manufacturers.
Additionally, this guide will highlight practical applications and innovative uses of corona treated fluted plastic, showcasing its role in modern design and functionality. By the end, readers will be equipped with valuable insights to make informed decisions regarding this versatile material.
Why do I need corona treating and how do corona treaters work?
Corona treating is a crucial process in enhancing the surface energy of plastic films, foils, and paper. This treatment significantly improves the wettability and adhesion of inks, coatings, and adhesives. It is most effective when applied during the extrusion process and in-line before converting. By increasing surface energy, corona treating enhances product quality and productivity, leading to better print quality, faster press speeds, and reduced scrap.
Understanding Corona Treating
Polymer films typically have chemically inert and non-porous surfaces, resulting in low surface tensions that hinder bonding with substrates, inks, coatings, and adhesives. Untreated films exhibit low surface energy, making them unsuitable for effective printing and coating. In contrast, pretreated films demonstrate higher surface energy, essential for producing quality printed, coated, or laminated products.
Technical Features of Corona Treating
The following table summarizes the technical features of corona treating:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Surface Energy Increase | Enhances adhesion of inks, coatings, and adhesives. |
| Treatment Timing | Best when applied during production and in-line before converting. |
| Material Compatibility | Effective on various substrates, including polyolefins. |
| Durability | Surface energy diminishes over time; retreating may be necessary. |
| System Components | Consists of a power supply and a treater station. |
Types of Corona Treated Materials
Different types of corona treated materials serve various applications. The following table outlines the differences among these materials:
| Type | Description | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Fluted Polypropylene | Lightweight, durable, and water-resistant; ideal for signage and displays. | Point-of-purchase displays, signage. |
| Corrugated Plastic | Rigid yet lightweight; resistant to humidity and solvents. | Temporary displays, packaging. |
| PVC Sheets | Chemical and water-resistant; suitable for industrial applications. | Wall panels, packaging solutions. |
| Polyethylene | Flexible and strong; often used in outdoor applications. | Agricultural and construction uses. |
The Importance of Corona Treating
Films that are not treated during production may not accept printing, coating, or lamination effectively. Even treated films can lose their surface energy over time, making them unprintable. Therefore, it is essential to use films treated at the time of production and to retreat them in-line when necessary. This dual treatment ensures consistent quality and performance.
How Corona Treating Works
A corona treating system increases the surface energy of materials, allowing for better adhesion. The system comprises two main components: the power supply and the treater station. The power supply converts standard electrical power into high-frequency power, which is then applied to the material through electrodes. This process ionizes the air in the gap, creating a corona that enhances the surface tension of the substrate.
Applications of Corona Treated Materials
Corona treated materials are widely used across various industries. For instance, fluted polypropylene sheets, such as those offered by Curbell Plastics, are ideal for point-of-purchase displays and construction signage. Similarly, Enercon Industries provides corona treating solutions that improve the quality of printed and coated products.
Advantages of Using Corona Treated Materials
- Enhanced Adhesion: Corona treatment ensures superior ink adhesion, making it ideal for printing applications.
- Durability: Treated materials are more resistant to environmental factors, ensuring longevity.
- Versatility: Suitable for various applications, from signage to packaging.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Lightweight and durable, these materials offer excellent value for money.
Conclusion
In summary, corona treating is an essential process for enhancing the surface energy of plastic films and other materials. By improving adhesion and wettability, it plays a vital role in various applications, from printing to packaging. Companies like Plastic Paper and Dunn Lumber utilize corona treated materials to meet diverse customer needs, ensuring high-quality products that stand the test of time.
FAQs
1. What is corona treating?
Corona treating is a process that increases the surface energy of materials, improving their adhesion to inks, coatings, and adhesives.
2. Why is corona treating necessary?
It is necessary because untreated materials often have low surface energy, making them unsuitable for effective bonding and printing.
3. How long does the effect of corona treating last?
The effect diminishes over time, so retreating may be necessary to maintain adhesion quality.
4. What types of materials can be corona treated?
Materials such as fluted polypropylene, corrugated plastic, and PVC sheets can be effectively corona treated.
5. Where can I find corona treated materials?
You can find corona treated materials at suppliers like Curbell Plastics and Enercon Industries.