Silicone Release Films. Every smooth release, every perfect adhesive separation, and every flawless coating transfer begins with one thing — precision-engineered silicone release films. These films quietly power industries that rely on accuracy and consistency, from medical devices to automotive components, from pressure-sensitive labels to flexible electronics.
For over a century, Pilcher Hamilton Corporation (PHC) has defined the standard in polyester film converting. Founded in 1904 and proudly headquartered at 850 South Buncombe Road, Greer, South Carolina, PHC stands as one of America’s largest and most trusted suppliers of PET films and coated substrates.
With 10,000,000+ pounds of polyester inventory, nationwide delivery in 24–48 hours, and unparalleled expertise, PHC is the go-to partner for companies searching “polyester near me” — especially when reliability and coating precision matter most.
Understanding Silicone Release Films
A silicone release film is a polyester-based material that has been coated with a thin, uniform layer of silicone to provide controlled release properties. This layer allows adhesives, sealants, or coatings to peel away cleanly and consistently during converting, assembly, or application.
At PHC, our silicone-coated polyester films are engineered to deliver consistent release values, surface smoothness, and dimensional stability — even under extreme temperature, humidity, or pressure conditions.
Whether used as a liner, carrier, or protective backing, these films offer the foundation for precision performance across numerous industrial processes.
Discover our release film portfolio:
👉 Silicone-Coated Release Films
👉 Adhesive Silicone-Coated Base Films
👉 Acrylic-Coated Films
👉 General Purpose Industrial Films
Why Silicone Coating Matters
Silicone is one of the most effective release agents known, offering low surface energy and high thermal stability. When applied to PET film, it creates a smooth, non-stick surface that provides predictable release performance for adhesives and coatings — a vital feature in precision manufacturing.
PHC’s silicone coating process ensures:
- Controlled Release Forces – Available in tight, medium, or easy-release grades, tuned to customer requirements.
- Surface Uniformity – Our advanced coating systems produce smooth finishes, critical for optical and electronic-grade applications.
- Dimensional Stability – PET backing maintains excellent mechanical and thermal consistency.
- Clean Separation – The release layer eliminates residue, ensuring adhesives remain uncontaminated.
These properties make PHC’s silicone release films a cornerstone of modern converting lines, supporting converters and manufacturers across dozens of industries.
Applications Across Multiple Industries
Silicone release films are found in nearly every industrial sector — often hidden but always essential. Their versatility and reliability make them the preferred choice for high-performance adhesive and protective systems.
Key applications include:
- Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives (PSAs): Carrier liners for labels, decals, and tapes.
- Medical Devices: Release liners for surgical drapes, wound dressings, and electrode adhesives.
- Composites Manufacturing: Temporary release surfaces for prepreg layups and resin-infused materials.
- Electronics: Die-cut liners and release layers for precision adhesive placement.
- Automotive: Protective film backings for sound dampening, insulation, and bonding systems.
In each of these industries, PHC’s silicone-coated polyester films deliver reliability under pressure — performing consistently across humidity cycles, coating chemistries, and production speeds.
Inside PHC’s Silicone Coating Expertise
PHC’s coating division operates with advanced precision technologies capable of applying silicone layers in micrometer-level thicknesses. Our expertise extends across solvent-based, solventless, and UV-cured silicone systems — allowing us to tailor films to your exact release requirements.
Our Corona Treating and Surface Preparation systems ensure exceptional adhesion between the silicone layer and polyester base, guaranteeing consistent performance across large-scale runs.
Explore related PHC converting capabilities:
Each process is supported by PHC’s century-long experience in film handling, coating precision, and quality testing — ensuring the silicone layer’s uniformity, release force, and adhesion stability.
The Advantages of Silicone-Coated Polyester Films
When compared to paper liners or other substrates, silicone-coated polyester films offer unmatched advantages:
- Superior Moisture Resistance – PET films do not absorb water, ensuring consistent release in humid conditions.
- Dimensional Accuracy – Polyester maintains its flatness and thickness across wide temperature ranges.
- Optical Clarity – Perfect for optical adhesives, display applications, or laminated surfaces.
- Reusability – In some production settings, films can be reused multiple times without performance loss.
- Clean Peel and Reduced Waste – Predictable release minimizes liner tearing and waste.
These properties make PHC’s films the go-to choice for high-end converters, medical manufacturers, and industrial engineers who can’t afford variability in their adhesive systems.
Sustainability and Recyclability in Release Liners
Sustainability is at the core of PHC’s mission. Our silicone-coated polyester films can be manufactured using Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) PET, reducing virgin plastic consumption while maintaining full performance characteristics.
Through our Sustainability First Initiative, we offer eco-conscious converters the opportunity to integrate recycled content into release liners — supporting circular manufacturing without compromise.
PHC’s continued innovation in recyclable and reusable PET liners ensures that the next generation of release films supports not only precision performance but also environmental progress.
The PHC Advantage: Precision. Performance. Partnership.
For over 120 years, Pilcher Hamilton Corporation has combined craftsmanship and innovation to deliver the highest-quality polyester films in the United States. Our deep expertise in film converting, custom coating, and surface modification makes us the trusted partner for converters seeking accuracy, speed, and reliability.
Our Greer, South Carolina facility serves customers nationwide with short lead times and superior service — ensuring that when you need polyester near me, PHC is your first call and final destination.Explore our All Services and All Products to discover how PHC can enhance your production line and material performance.