Why can silicone-coated release films be used in thermal transfer?
Jun 27, 2025
Why can silicone-coated release film be used in thermal transfer? Why can it transfer ink to objects such as buckets?
1. What is silicone-coated release film?
Silicon-coated release film is a layer of silicone release agent (silicone oil) coated on the surface of plastic film. Its biggest feature is its smooth surface and strong non-stickiness.
2. Why is silicon-coated film suitable as a thermal transfer carrier?
Thermal transfer is a printing-first-then-transfer processing method: first print the pattern on the release film, and then transfer the pattern from the film to the surface of the target object (such as plastic buckets, cups, metal plates, etc.) by heat pressing.
The advantages of silicon-coated release film play a key role in thermal transfer:
| Characteristic | Effect on Thermal Transfer Printing |
|---|---|
| Good heat resistance (especially for PET substrates) | Can withstand the high temperature (150 - 200°C) required for thermal transfer printing without deforming or releasing toxic substances |
| Smooth surface and good release property | Patterns can completely and cleanly separate from the film surface during transfer printing without residue |
| High chemical inertness | Does not react with ink or glue, ensuring that the transferred pattern is not contaminated or distorted |
| Controllable release force | Can adjust the surface "stick/release" performance according to the ink type or hot pressing process, and precisely control the transfer printing effect |
Why can ink be transferred to a bucket?
The principle of this process is:
First, print the ink pattern on the silicon surface of the release film (for example, using UV ink, thermosetting ink, solvent-based ink);
Apply pressure to the surface of the bucket at high temperature (for example, hot stamping, heating with a thermal transfer machine);
The ink fuses or bonds with the surface of the bucket material (generally PE, PP, ABS) at high temperature;
After tearing off the silicon film, the pattern is completely "left" on the surface of the bucket, and the film itself does not stick to the pattern and is easy to detach.
This process is very common in thermal transfer of plastic products, barreled buckets, laundry detergent barrels, electrical housings, pencil cases, and hardware printing.
