The use of PVC overlay film has increased over the years as the film is used as a raw material for making PVC cards with printed plastic sheets. The film is usually attached using glue and other adhesives which give a smooth and strong bond to the underlying surface. The process of applying the film simplifies the process of making plastic cards and provides high bonding and strength to the cards. Printing can be done on the overlay film and this is especially important in making plastic playing cards and other printing material. This is because the film lowers the possibility of color diffusing and cuts down the waste rate in production.
Overlay film is used in card making to increase the life of the cards as it prevents abrasions, scratching, and the general wear and tear caused by handling of the cards. The film can be used for most types of cards as it is environmentally safe. In most cases the film is usually transparent as it is intended to protect the underlying surface without inhibiting the readability of the card. Effective application of the film should result in even smoothness all along the surface of the card and the thickness of the film should be the same all over to provide an attractive finish.
One of the benefits of using overlay film in card making is that it does not require special storage conditions. All that is required is storage under room temperatures, away from direct sunlight and away from moisture. When stored in the right conditions the film has a long shelf life of up to two years from the date of manufacture. Among one of the fields where the film has been extensively applied is in identity card making.
When used for printing purposes, the thickness of the film determines the type of printing to be applied. In most cases applying overlay film involves application of thermal glue on the surface of the card so that the PVC sheet can stick fast to the core sheet. It is essentially supposed to cover the card from top to bottom. With the help of heating and pressure from a laminator, the overlay and the core will strongly stick together and form a bright surface on the card.
Shopping for overlay film can be done through the internet where different manufacturers have websites where shoppers can purchase the type of film that they need.