When adhesive formulators search “polyester near me” for release liners, they are looking for consistent peel performance and stable coatings. Silicone‑coated polyester films form the backbone of pressure‑sensitive adhesive (PSA) systems used in labels, tapes and industrial laminates. The biaxially oriented PET substrate delivers excellent dimensional stability and strength, while the silicone release coating provides controlled release forces. This article explores how dyne levels, coefficient of friction (COF) and anchorage influence release performance and offers guidance on specifying silicone‑coated release liners for your adhesive application.
Key Takeaways
- Controlled release – Silicone chemistry and coat weight determine release force and stability over time.
- Dyne matters – Anchor coat and surface energy (dyne level) ensure silicone adhesion to PET, preventing transfer.
- COF ranges – Adjusting COF through additive selection controls unwind and handling characteristics.
- Differential builds – Multi‑layer liners with different release values accommodate complex PSA constructions.
- Local converting – PHC’s Greer facility coats, slits and sheets release liners to custom formats for fast delivery.
Why Polyester for Release Liners
Polyester’s dimensional stability, heat resistance and mechanical strength make it ideal for release liners used with aggressive adhesives. Unlike paper liners, PET does not absorb moisture, preventing curl or wrinkling. High tensile strength allows thin calipers (1–3 mil) to withstand winding tension without elongation. Additionally, clear PET liners enable optical inspection of adhesive coating during converting. Because PET film is chemically inert, silicone anchors bond well without reacting with the substrate.
Silicone Systems & Anchorage
Silicone release coatings are applied atop an anchor or primer coat that bonds the silicone to the PET substrate. Platinum‑cured silicones provide consistent release forces and fast curing, while thermal‑cured systems offer cost efficiency. Release values range from easy‑release (<20 g/in) to tight‑release (>80 g/in), depending on silicone formulation and coat weight (typically 0.5–1.5 g/m²). Anchorage is critical; poor anchorage leads to silicone transfer onto the adhesive, causing blocking or variable peel. Selecting the right primer and dyne level ensures robust anchorage.
COF Ranges & Handling
Coefficient of friction influences how liners unwind and pass through equipment. Low COF (<0.3) results in “slippery” liners that may telescope on rolls; moderate COF (0.3–0.5) offers controlled unwind; high COF (>0.5) provides traction but may cause jamming. COF is adjusted by adding slip agents or embossing the non‑silicone side of the film. Release liners for automated label dispensers typically target COF around 0.3–0.4 to balance unwind tension and dispenser drive capability.
Dyne Targets for Clean Release
Surface energy, measured in dynes/cm, determines how well the silicone anchors to PET. PET films are typically treated to 48–52 dynes prior to coating. Corona or flame treatment raises the dyne level by oxidizing the surface, while chemically primed coatings provide long‑term dyne retention. Maintaining dyne >45 dynes ensures the silicone layer bonds well and prevents transfer or lift during adhesive lamination.
Differential Builds & Supply Formats
Complex PSA constructions often require different release forces on each side of the liner. A differential release liner might have an easy‑release silicone on one side and a tight‑release on the other. PET’s stability allows precision coat weights on both sides. Liners are supplied in roll widths from 1 in up to 60 in and calipers of 1–5 mil, wound on 3‑in cores. PHC offers custom slitting and sheeting to meet application‑specific dimensions. Visit our pages on silicone‑coated release films and adhesive silicone‑coated base films for more details.
| Checklist Item | Typical Range | Considerations |
| Release force | 10–80 g/in | Easy to tight release |
| Silicone coat weight | 0.5–1.5 g/m² | Controls release and anchorage |
| Dyne level | 48–52 dynes | Pre‑treated for silicone anchorage |
| COF (non‑release) | 0.3–0.5 | Influences unwind and handling |
| Caliper | 1–5 mil | Thicker liners for heavy labels |
FAQ
Why choose a polyester release liner over paper? Polyester liners are dimensionally stable, moisture resistant and provide consistent release forces, making them suitable for high‑speed automation and aggressive adhesives.
How do I adjust release force? Release force is primarily controlled by silicone chemistry and coat weight. Platinum‑cured silicones tend to provide lower and more stable release forces than thermal‑cured systems.
What dyne level is needed for silicone anchorage? PET surfaces should be treated to at least 48–50 dynes to promote adhesion of the primer and silicone layers and prevent transfer.
Can a release liner have different release values on each side? Yes. Differential liners use distinct silicone formulations or coat weights on each side to achieve easy‑release and tight‑release surfaces within one product.
Where can I find polyester near me for release liners? Pilcher Hamilton Corporation coats and converts silicone‑coated PET liners in Greer, serving customers across the USA. Contact us to discuss your PSA project.
Call to Action
For converters and adhesive formulators seeking consistent release performance, PHC’s silicone‑coated polyester liners deliver reliability. We offer in‑house coating, slitting and sheeting with rapid turnarounds. Explore our silicone‑coated release films and coating services to learn more, or reach out via our contact page for technical advice. When you search polyester near me, choose PHC for localized support and expert guidance.
Serving the USA from Greer – South carolina
850 South Buncombe Road
Greer – South carolina
Connect with us through our contact page or view our locations.