Every package tells a story—but that story is only as strong as the graphics, seals, and finishes that bring it to life. For converters and brands, the key to sharp visuals and strong laminations lies in one innovation: acrylic-coated polyester films. These films take the inherent strength of PET and add a coating that dramatically improves printability, adhesion, and sealing.
At Pilcher Hamilton Corporation (PHC), headquartered at 850 South Buncombe Road, Greer, South Carolina, acrylic-coated films are a cornerstone of our portfolio. Since 1904, PHC has been advancing polyester converting technology, supplying converters nationwide with over 10,000,000 lbs of inventory and 24–48 hour delivery. For businesses searching “polyester near me,” PHC remains the trusted U.S. source.
What Are Acrylic-Coated Polyester Films?
Acrylic-coated films are polyester substrates with a thin acrylic layer applied during production. This coating adds functionality while preserving the strength and clarity of PET.
Key Advantages:
- Superior Printability: Accepts inks, adhesives, and coatings without surface treatments.
- Enhanced Sealability: Allows tighter seals at lower temperatures.
- Improved Lamination: Stronger bonds with other substrates (paper, foil, other films).
- Chemical Resistance: Acrylic layer provides protection against oils and solvents.
PHC provides detailed film specifications and technical datasheets to guide converters in selecting the right acrylic-coated grade.
Applications of Acrylic-Coated Polyester Films
Acrylic-coated PET films are valued in applications where both performance and aesthetics are critical:
Flexible Packaging
- Snack packs, candy wrappers, bakery pouches.
- Improved sealing reduces heat use on packaging lines.
- Works well in laminations with heat-sealable films.
Printing & Graphics
- High-quality graphics for labels, wraps, and cartons.
- Compatible with advanced printing systems.
- Ideal for premium high-clarity graphic grades.
Industrial Applications
- Durable laminations for insulation, tapes, and adhesives.
- Chemical resistance supports protective packaging for sensitive goods.
See more packaging examples in PHC’s polyester packaging applications guide.
Acrylic-Coated Films vs. Other Polyester Films
Each polyester film type offers unique strengths. Here’s how acrylic-coated PET compares:
- Versus PVDC-coated films: PVDC coatings excel at barrier protection, while acrylic coatings focus on printability and sealing.
- Versus Metallized PET: Metallized films deliver superior barrier properties, but acrylic-coated films enhance packaging appearance and adhesion.
- Versus Silicone-coated liners: Silicone-coated release films control adhesive performance, while acrylic coatings optimize surface interaction for printing and sealing.
This versatility makes acrylic-coated films one of the most converter-friendly PET substrates.
PHC’s Converting Services
At PHC, the performance of acrylic-coated films is supported by world-class converting services:
- Slitting: Custom widths for packaging and laminating lines.
- Sheeting: Precise sheets for flat-pack production.
- Winding: Ensures defect-free rolls.
- Toll Converting: Flexible solutions for customer-supplied master rolls.
- Coating: Additional functional layers for enhanced performance.
- Corona Treating: Improves surface energy for advanced printing and laminations.
These services ensure PHC’s acrylic-coated films integrate seamlessly into customer operations.
Specialty Film Combinations
PHC supplies acrylic-coated films in a wide range of gauges and structures, including:
- Acrylic + opaque white films for branding.
- Acrylic + translucent white films for diffusion and design.
- Acrylic + BON laminates for durability.
- Acrylic + PCR films for sustainability.
This adaptability allows converters to design structures that balance performance, cost, and sustainability.
Sustainability and Acrylic Coatings
Sustainability is a growing priority in packaging, and acrylic-coated films are playing their part:
- Compatible with mono-material structures to support recyclability.
- Coatings applied with minimal material use, reducing environmental impact.
- Options to combine with PCR polyester for circular packaging.
Read more about PHC’s sustainability-first initiatives.
Why Choose Pilcher Hamilton Corporation?
PHC stands out in the polyester converting industry for its scale, speed, and expertise:
- Legacy since 1904: Trusted across generations.
- Over 10 million pounds of inventory: Ready to meet urgent needs.
- 24–48 hour delivery: Fastest turnaround in the industry.
- Nationwide support: Multiple locations to serve customers.
- Full transparency: Learn more about PHC or contact us directly.
The Future of Acrylic-Coated Polyester Films
Looking ahead, acrylic-coated PET films will continue to evolve:
- Eco-optimized coatings with improved recyclability.
- Advanced printing compatibility with digital and flexographic systems.
- New adhesion properties for bio-based adhesives and laminates.
PHC is investing in these innovations to ensure customers stay ahead of consumer and regulatory demands.
Acrylic-coated polyester films bridge the gap between durability and design. With their superior printability, sealing, and lamination performance, they enable packaging and graphics that are both functional and visually compelling.For converters and brands searching “polyester near me,” Pilcher Hamilton Corporation—located at 850 South Buncombe Road, Greer, South Carolina—offers the expertise, scale, and service to deliver the right solution, fast.