Primers are used in the foil lamination of PVC and aluminium profiles. These are adhesion promoters that are applied directly to the surface of the profiles and panels to enable subsequent bonding with the decorative material.
Primers consist mainly of solvents, which are dried off after application, and a small proportion of synthetic resins, which remain on the surface. They act as an adhesion-improving layer between the adhesive and the profile.
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The unplasticized PVC used for PVC windows, also known as uPVC, does not provide the adhesive with a favourable surface on which it can develop its full adhesive potential. Prior primer treatment of the surface increases the surface energy of the PVC and therefore the wettability towards the hot-melt adhesive. Bonding without prior priming of the PVC is conceivable in some cases, but without the primer pre-treatment the necessary resistance to weathering, which is of essential importance for window profiles in particular, is not achieved. This means that PVC primers make bonding possible in the first place and also guarantee the durability of the bond over many years.
Various types of primers are used in the film lamination of PVC profiles and sheets. They generally depend on the production requirements, the environmental regulations, the materials used and the available machine technology. In general, a distinction is made between low-VOC primers and low-boiling primers.
These are generally based on high-boiling solvents. They are characterised by a lower environmental impact and offer greater occupational safety for users. TAKA also has products in its range that are not labelled as hazardous substances. Comparatively small quantities are applied during the application process, but they are more difficult to dry. Low-VOC primers must be applied using precise automatic primer dosing systems. This can be done by felt application or by vacuum systems.
They have the advantage that they offer a large processing window and are therefore easy to apply and dry. However, the application quantity is many times higher, and precautions must be taken to ensure work safety. The work areas must be sufficiently ventilated and, depending on the solvent base, the respective primer can also be flammable, so that special fire protection measures are necessary.
Aluminium profiles can be foil-laminated in the same way as PVC window profiles. Primers are also used here to ensure successful adhesion of the film. Strictly speaking, however, the primers in this case are not used to pre-treat the aluminium, but rather the lacquer layer on the aluminium. The wrapping of aluminium window profiles only takes place on painted profiles, as this is the only way to guarantee a weather-resistant and durable lamination. It is essential to thoroughly test the compatibility and effectiveness of the primer on the respective paint layer in advance.
Finding the right primer for your laminating applications is not always easy. Various aspects must be considered that go beyond purely technical parameters. First and foremost, of course, the primer must have proven effectiveness on your PVC and aluminium profiles, which can also vary between different coloured PVC mixtures or recycled content. In addition, the environmental compatibility, the desired working speed, the equipment of the wrapping machines and much more must be taken into account in the selection process.
But don’t worry, our experts will be happy to help you and are also available for testing and sampling. Simply contact us using the contact form.
