PVC Films

PVC film (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a versatile and cost-effective material widely used in packaging, construction, furniture, and decorative applications. 

How is PVC film made?

Calendering machine: This machine is used to make pvc film. It can stir the pvc raw material to the paste. Then use roller system to calender into different thickness pvc films. Calendared vinyl films are formed from an older process of taking a dough-like material consisting of PVC, pigments, plasticizer and stabilizer, mixing them in an extruder and then rolling it through polished heated rollers which stretches the material to the proper thickness. The film is then fused to a polyester backing. The process is completed when the material is given a gloss, matte or embossed finish. The calendering process for PVC film involves transforming raw PVC resin into uniform sheets through controlled heat and pressure. Key steps include:

1. Mixing & Compounding:
– PVC resin is blended with plasticizers (e.g., DOP/DEHP), stabilizers, pigments, and functional additives (e.g., UV inhibitors) to achieve desired flexibility, color, and performance.
– Precise control of the **plasticization degree** (60–70% optimal) ensures balanced melt flow and mechanical properties.

2. Preheating & Plastification:
– The mixture is heated to 160–200°C in high-speed mixers or extruders, where shear forces break down resin particles into a homogeneous melt.
– Critical parameters include temperature gradients and shear rates to avoid under-plasticization (brittleness) or over-plasticization (degradation).

3. Calendering:
– The molten PVC passes through a series of precision-calibrated rollers to form a continuous film of uniform thickness (0.05–0.35 mm).
– Multi-roll configurations (e.g., 4-roll or inverted-L setups) ensure smooth surfaces and controlled gloss levels (matte to high-gloss).

4. Cooling & Winding:
– The film is rapidly cooled to stabilize its structure, followed by edge trimming and winding into rolls.

PVC film key features:

Durability: High mechanical strength, tear resistance, and waterproof properties, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Design Flexibility: Can mimic textures like wood grain, stone, leather, and high-gloss finishes, with customizable colors and patterns through advanced printing techniques.
Safety & Compliance: Fire-retardant grades (e.g., B1 standard) meet international safety regulations, while phthalate-free and RoHS-compliant options ensure environmental and health safety.
Functional Additives: UV resistance, anti-mildew, and anti-static properties enhance performance in diverse environments.