When it comes to industrial materials, few can match the strength, clarity, and versatility of industrial polyester films. These general-purpose PET films form the backbone of countless products—from packaging and labels to insulation, lamination, and protective coatings.
At Pilcher Hamilton Company (PHC), headquartered at 850 South Buncombe Road in Greer, South Carolina, we’ve been serving America’s film industry for over a century. Our expertise in polyester conversion, coating, slitting, and distribution enables us to deliver high-performance films to customers nationwide—fast, flexible, and with local service that global suppliers can’t match.
Whether you’re designing a new flexible package, producing industrial laminates, or searching for “polyester near me”, PHC’s general-purpose industrial PET films provide the performance foundation you can depend on.
This article explores the core properties, advantages, and real-world applications of industrial polyester films—and explains why working with a local supplier in South Carolina makes all the difference.
Core Properties of Industrial-Grade PET
At its foundation, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a biaxially oriented thermoplastic known for its remarkable combination of strength, clarity, and chemical resistance. Industrial-grade PET is engineered to balance mechanical performance with processability, making it one of the most versatile substrates across modern manufacturing.
1. Mechanical Strength
Industrial polyester films exhibit exceptional tensile strength and tear resistance, allowing them to endure the stresses of lamination, printing, and forming. They maintain their structural integrity under tension, which is essential for high-speed processing and automated converting lines.
This mechanical durability enables thinner gauges to replace thicker, heavier materials—supporting sustainability and cost efficiency without sacrificing performance.
2. Dimensional Stability
Because PET is biaxially oriented (stretched in both machine and transverse directions), it maintains a stable shape under heat and mechanical pressure. This property prevents:
- Wrinkling or distortion during printing
- Shrinkage under thermal lamination
- Curling during die-cutting or slitting
Dimensional stability ensures registration accuracy in graphics, alignment precision in laminations, and consistent performance in electrical insulation.
3. Thermal and Chemical Resistance
PET withstands high temperatures (up to 150°C in continuous use) and resists oils, greases, and many solvents. This makes it an ideal substrate for:
- Electrical insulation and motor windings
- Automotive components
- Industrial labels and adhesives
- Protective coatings exposed to chemical agents
Even when exposed to UV or humidity, industrial polyester films retain their mechanical and optical properties, providing long-term reliability in harsh environments.
4. Optical Clarity
PET’s transparency and gloss make it a popular choice for packaging and display applications. Its optical uniformity supports precise printing, lamination, and optical coatings, while matte or hazy variants provide diffuse finishes for industrial or protective films.
5. Barrier Performance
While not as impermeable as specialized barrier coatings like PVDC or EVOH, general-purpose PET offers moderate oxygen and moisture barrier protection, making it suitable for dry goods, hardware packaging, or laminated barrier systems.
For enhanced performance, PHC also offers PVDC-coated or metallized PET films, which can be layered over industrial polyester films for customized barrier properties.
6. Process Versatility
Industrial polyester films are compatible with multiple secondary processes, including:
- Corona or chemical treatment for improved adhesion
- Coating and metallization for barrier and functional layers
- Heat-sealing, laminating, or die-cutting for finishing
This versatility allows PHC customers to adapt a single base film for packaging, insulation, printing, or converting—a key advantage in multi-industry manufacturing.
Advantages: Strength, Stability & Chemical Resistance
The reason industrial polyester films are used in so many applications comes down to one word: balance. They combine mechanical strength, dimensional control, and surface adaptability in a way few materials can.
1. Consistent Performance Across Conditions
PET maintains mechanical strength and dimensional stability across a wide temperature and humidity range. Whether used in high-speed packaging lines or electrical insulation systems, its predictable behavior ensures process reliability and product longevity.
2. Exceptional Printability & Surface Treatment Options
When corona-treated or chemically modified, PET’s surface energy increases dramatically, enabling better adhesion of inks, adhesives, and coatings. This means brighter colors, cleaner edges, and better overall durability for printed and laminated products.
PHC’s in-house corona treating and coating services help customers achieve the right surface characteristics for each application.
3. High Dielectric Strength
In the electrical and electronics sectors, PET’s dielectric properties make it a top choice for:
- Motor insulation films
- Flexible printed circuits (FPCs)
- Capacitor wraps
- Electrical slot liners
Its ability to resist electric breakdown under high voltage ensures safety and performance in both consumer and industrial applications.
4. Chemical Resistance for Industrial Environments
Industrial polyester films stand up to oils, lubricants, fuels, and many solvents—making them ideal for labels, protective overlays, and industrial laminates that must endure contact with harsh substances.
This chemical resilience, paired with its mechanical strength, ensures durability in automotive, chemical processing, and electronics manufacturing.
5. Sustainability and Recyclability
PET is one of the few industrial polymers that is fully recyclable. PHC offers post-consumer recycled (PCR) PET options that maintain strength and clarity while reducing environmental impact.
As part of our sustainability commitment, PHC invests in energy-efficient converting and sourcing from certified recycling streams to help customers meet ESG and circular economy goals.
Applications Across Packaging, Labels, Insulation & More
The versatility of general-purpose industrial PET film makes it a true workhorse across industries. Below are the most common—and growing—applications supported by PHC’s film portfolio.
1. Flexible Packaging
PET’s clarity, toughness, and heat resistance make it indispensable in flexible packaging laminations. It serves as:
- The outer printable layer for pouches and wraps
- The lamination base for barrier or metallized coatings
- A protective film against puncture and moisture
From snacks and confectionery to pharmaceuticals and industrial goods, PET’s dimensional stability keeps packaging secure and shelf-appealing.
2. Labels & Graphics
In the labeling and graphics industry, PET films provide both performance and aesthetics. Their smooth surface ensures high-resolution printing, while their strength resists tearing during die-cutting or application.
Common label uses include:
- Industrial ID and asset labels
- Automotive and appliance nameplates
- Safety decals and graphic overlays
With corona or chemical treatment, PET easily bonds to UV inks and pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA)—ensuring long-term adhesion even on challenging surfaces.
3. Laminations & Adhesive Coatings
PET’s strength and smoothness make it an excellent carrier film for adhesive laminates, release liners, and coated constructions. It maintains flatness and resists distortion during coating, ensuring precise thickness control and lamination uniformity.
Industries use PET laminations for:
- Protective covers and surface films
- Decorative laminates
- Composite bonding for industrial and aerospace use
4. Electrical Insulation
In motors, transformers, and electronics, PET is prized for its:
- Dielectric strength (up to 200 kV/mm)
- Thermal resistance
- Dimensional precision
It acts as an insulating barrier that protects against short circuits and heat buildup. PHC supplies films for slot liners, cable wraps, and high-voltage insulation systems.
5. Industrial Tapes & Release Liners
As a base for pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes, industrial polyester films provide both rigidity and transparency. Their consistent gauge ensures accurate adhesive laydown, while their strength prevents stretching during lamination.
6. Coated & Metallized Films
By metallizing or coating PET, PHC transforms general-purpose film into high-performance materials used in:
- Reflective insulation
- Thermal control films
- Barrier packaging
- Optical applications
These specialized coatings enhance barrier performance and visual appeal while retaining PET’s core mechanical strength.
Why Choose a Local Supplier in Greer SC
When it comes to industrial polyester films, choosing the right supplier is about more than just material specs — it’s about availability, reliability, and technical partnership.
At Pilcher Hamilton Company, we combine global-grade product quality with local service and fast delivery, giving customers in South Carolina and across the Southeast a true competitive edge.
1. Local Stock, Fast Delivery
PHC maintains millions of pounds of general-purpose polyester film in stock at our Greer, SC warehouse. This enables:
- Rapid turnaround on standard and custom orders
- Same-day shipment for common gauges and widths
- Reduced freight costs and local pickup options
If you’re searching online for “polyester near me”, PHC ensures your films are literally close to home, with the inventory and logistics to support large-scale industrial production.
2. Full-Service Converting & Customization
Our facility offers a comprehensive range of value-added services, including:
- Sheeting Services for precise sheet cutting and stacking
- Winding Services for custom roll lengths and diameters
- Slitting and die-cutting for converter-ready widths
- Coating and corona treatment for enhanced surface performance
This end-to-end converting capability means PHC can deliver ready-to-use rolls or sheets tailored to your exact process requirements.
3. Technical Expertise and Application Support
With over 120 years of industry experience, PHC’s technical team works directly with engineers, converters, and designers to select the ideal film for each project. We provide:
- Guidance on film thickness, clarity, and surface treatment
- Compatibility assessments for adhesives and coatings
- Testing for tensile strength, optical clarity, and dyne levels
Our commitment to hands-on technical collaboration ensures consistent performance, reduced waste, and smoother integration into your production line.
4. Sustainable, American Manufacturing
PHC proudly supports U.S. manufacturing and sustainability. Our sourcing network prioritizes domestic suppliers, recyclable materials, and post-consumer recycled (PCR) PET options.
By working locally, we reduce shipping emissions and ensure traceability and quality assurance throughout the production process.
5. Proven Reliability in Industrial Supply
For generations, PHC has supplied polyester films to customers in:
- Packaging and printing
- Electronics and insulation
- Automotive and aerospace
- Medical and industrial converting
This history of trust means you can depend on PHC not just for film — but for complete reliability, supply continuity, and responsive customer care.
One Film, Endless Possibilities
From packaging and printing to insulation and laminates, industrial polyester films continue to power innovation across industries. Their strength, stability, and chemical resistance make them the go-to choice for manufacturers seeking reliable, high-performance materials that adapt to changing demands.
At Pilcher Hamilton Company, our general-purpose industrial PET films are more than materials — they’re the foundation of efficient, sustainable, and scalable production. With local stock, expert converting, and decades of experience, PHC ensures that the right film is always within reach.
So next time you’re searching for “polyester near me”, remember that the strength of your supply chain starts right here in Greer, South Carolina — with Pilcher Hamilton, your trusted industrial polyester film supplier.
📍 Visit Us:
Pilcher Hamilton Company
850 South Buncombe Road
Greer, SC 29650
Contact Us