Instrument Plastics can now offer a range of shielded glass displays with a conductive coating on one side to prevent EMI/RFI.
Key features
- Precision cut to size parts
- High light transmission
- Excellent shielding performance
- Scratch resistant
- Available with or without thermal toughening for extra impact resistance.
- Laminated version available for extra strength and security
- Etched non-glare or multilayer anti-reflection coating can be specified.
- Busbar contact edges available if required in either copper , aluminium or printed conductive ink
Typical applications
- Medical and Military LED/LCD monitors.
- Shielded cameras
- Sensors and displays
- EMI / RF Shielding
Technical details
- Light Transmission – 84%
- Electrical resistance- 10-12 Ohms
- Temperatures -60/+110 ℃
- EMI Shielding effectiveness – 5-60dB (10kHz-40GHz)
- Available thicknesses 3, 4 and 6mm.
Other options available
- 1.1mm Thin float glass in 5 Ohms/sq and 12-15 Ohms/sq
85 OPI mesh at 40x magnification
Instrument plastics are delighted to announce a new range of Emishield Micromesh products which have been developed to give excellent shielding performance and offer unequalled light transmission and clarity. Furthermore Instrument Plastics can now offer 85, 100 and 150 OPI Micromesh variants which can be supplied with Protective film and adhesive if required. This means that the Micromesh can be directly applied to Glass or polycarbonate displays if needed. However in order to achieve the best optical finish as well as ensure longevity we would recommend integrating the mesh in a fully laminated window.
Overview of Optolite Emishield Micromesh
Our Micromesh consists of an optical quality Pet film which has a Copper layer deposited in a lattice/grid pattern and is further protected by a Nickel layer. This ensures the film has a conductive layer with a very fine etched mesh that is also fully integrated with the transparent carrier. Overall this gives our Micromesh the important properties of high transparency (No moiré effect), low resistance for high-frequency EMI shielding as well as easy application.
Structure
Important note
The micromesh can be affected by acid found on human skin. As a result we would suggest handling this material with Gloves or having an additional transparent film layer applied. In terms of the optical specification for this product small defects are passable. For further information please contact sales@instrumentplastics.co.uk.
Application
• Shielding rooms , Computer rooms , laboratory and Instrumentation windows
• LCD Windows , military and medical devices and equipment
• Phone screen shielding
• EMI shielding for displays and windows
Sizes
• Maximum useable width is 1500mm
• Length – Can supply in mm/ Meters if required.
• Bespoke sheets / sizes are available if CAD / PDF files are emailed to sales@instrumentplastics.co.uk
Physical and performance properties
Instrument plastics offer a full range of Polycarbonate windows. Machine sizes available with optically clear or non-glare abrasion resistance coatings. Various thicknesses available by optical lamination. Colours also available.
Benefits of Optolite™ Polycarbonate
- High impact resistance
- Excellent flammability rating
- Comparable to glass in terms of clarity but a far lighter substrate.
Optolite™ Polycarbonate (Colours/Colors)
Instrument plastics can also offer a range of polycarbonate sheets in a wide range of colours. Typical applications would be LED, Electro- luminescent and Vacuum Fluorescent displays.
Optolite™IR Blocking Laminated Polycarbonate
This is a clear film lamination which maintains high visible light transmission while blocking infrared heat. This is non-metallic and neutral in colour.
Key properties
- Reduces solar radiation by up to 34% with minimal reduction of visiblelight
- Multilayer film selectively blocks infrared light, thus reducingheat
- Available in Glass orPolycarbonate
- Neutral in colour, low reflectivity, lowabsorption
- Available with AR / ITO coatings, tints and alternative finishes
- Corrosion free, non-metallictechnology
- No interference with radionfrequencies
Instrument Plastics offers a range of glasses which can be machined to size. We can also provide a wide range of laminated solutions.
Float Glass & Low Iron Glass (Water white glass)
- Typically made from soda Lime glass, or Low Iron Glass (Water white glass)
Benefits:
- A cost effective solution
- High visible light transmittance
- Chemical and scratch resistance
- Can be easily laminated to offer greater durability and impact resistance
Maximum window size - 2000 x 1200mm (78 x 47’’)
Range of thicknesses - 0.8mm, 1.1mm, 1.6mm, 2.0mm, 3.0mm, 4.0mm, 6.00mm
(0.03’’, 0.04’’, 0.06’’, 0.08’’, 0.12’’, 0.16’’, 0.24’’)
Colours - Clear and neutral
Edge finishes - Instrument plastics can offer a range of glass finishes. These include clean-cut, flat ground, bevelling and polished.
Anti-reflective glass
Anti-reflection coatings dramatically reduces reflections by a factor of ten to less than 0.5%.
Maximum window size - 1100 x 1580mm
Range of thicknesses - 1.0mm, 2.0mm, 3.0mm, 4.0mm
(0.03’’, 0.07’’, 0.11’’0.15’’)
Other thicknesses available by optical lamination.
Non-Glare Etched Glass
- Instrument plastics can also supply with Glass with an acid etched surface.
Benefits
- An ideal solution for a range of displays
- A cost effective solution
Maximum window size - 1600 x 920mm
Range of thicknesses - 1.1mm, 1.6mm, 2.0mm, 3.0mm, 4.0mm
Other thicknesses available by optical lamination.
Thermally hardened and toughened Glass
Our thermally hardened glass is twice as strong as standard tempered glass and five times stronger than untempered glass.
Benefits
- Can be used in extreme and challenging environments. Moreover hardened and toughened glass has a high impact resistance.
- Added safety
- Can be used when there is a high temperature differential between the two faces.
Thicknesses available 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, and 19mm.
ITO Glass
- An optimum solution for specific scientific and shielding applications. We can also offer in ITO GLass in laminated form here.
IR Blocking Laminated Glass
This is a clear glass lamination which maintains high visible light transmission while blocking infrared heat. This is non-metallic and neutral in colour.
Key properties
- Reduces solar radiation by up to 34% with minimal reduction of visiblelight
- Multilayer film selectively blocks infrared light, thus reducingheat
- Available in Glass orPolycarbonate
- Neutral in colour, low reflectivity, lowabsorption
- Available with AR / ITO coatings, tints and alternative finishes
- Corrosion free, non-metallictechnology
- No interference with radionfrequencies
Optolite HSR AR is an optical material with a broadband AR coating applied to both sides.
The Anti Reflective coating is hard wearing and ideal for direct sunlight readability displays.
Optolite HSR AR is available as a clear or EMI Shielded sheet this thicknesses ranging from 1mm thick to 8mm thick. The optical surface can either be clear gloss or one of our non-glare finishes.
The base Optolite HSR material also benefits from being highly scratch and chemical resistant throughout the material.
Optolite HSR AR gives the option of a light weight and tough alternative to glass. It can be easily machined and drilled.
Printing and gasket application is also available if needed.
Instrument Plastics new optical bonding service can be incorporated into a variety of optical displays, cover lens’s and touch screens. The IP Solisbond process provides an innovative engineered solution whilst our new class 10,000 clean room bonding facility ensures unparalleled quality. With our extensive knowledge Instrument plastics can assist you throughout the process from initial design and material selection to final production. We can also assist you in choosing suitable touch screens and other optical display configurations.
Features of IP Solisbond bonded displays:
- Can be customized to be used in automotive and marine applications where an operating temperature range of (-30Cto+85C) is required.
The IP Solisbond
Mechanism
- Reflection loss is about 8%due to air gap
- IP Solisbond reduces sunshine reflection and loss of light from backlight units
Key Benefits
- Improved Sunlight Readability:
Decreases reflection on the display glass from external light source, hence improves the contrast ratio. - Shock-resistant:
Adhesive is soft and not brittle - Re-workable process:
High yield:1%~5% yield loss of display,1%yield loss of cover lens and touch panel - Improved Luminance:
Reduces light loss from backlight units which increases luminance for about 8% - Straight forward process:
No UV curing required - Green process and material
- Cost-effective
Test Summary
- IP Solisbond can withstand temperature ranges between -40C to +200C
- Does not suffer from the UV effects,so it doesn’t become brittle or yellow when exposed to direct sunlight
Optolite™ Clear HSR (High scratch resistance) is a highly durable optically clear material. Key features include high chemical, scratch and impact resistance. It is especially suited to LCD’s and other display applications (Instrument covers, windows) where these characteristics are of a particular importance. An early version of this polymer was sold under the trade name CR-39®. Overall, our HSR material combines the optical quality and chemical resistance of glass with the lightweight performance of plastic.
Examples of applications which require an HSR optical window:
- Avionics displays
- Barcode scanners
- Industrial instruments
- Medical device instruments
- Navigation instruments
- Oscilloscopes
- Scanning devices
- Security sensors
- Test equipment
- Military displays
- Automotive displays
LCD’s often suffer from a number of problems:
- Soft front surface polariser
– can be subject to damage from scratching, dirt, moisture, finger marks, etc. - Front surface reflections
– in certain lighting conditions these may cause display reading difficulties - Restricted viewing angles
– caused by LCD construction and method of operating - Possible Ultra Violet degradation in strong sunlight
- Shielding from electromagnetic interference
- Sourcing of bezels
– not always possible or feasible with so many different LCD sizes available
Choice of Optolite Clear HSR
Instrument Plastics Ltd offers their Optolite Clear HSR (High Scratch Resistant) filter to overcome these problems on LCD’s. It is also especially recommended in display applications requiring the characteristics mentioned below.
Optolite Clear HSR has both outstanding abrasion resistance, up to 20 times that of acrylics, and excellent impact resistance. It is also chemical resistant, being immune to the effects of virtually all common solvents. It is lightweight, approximately half that of glass, and exhibits optical properties comparable to crown glass. Its maximum continuous operating temperature is in excess of 100°C.
Optolite Clear HSR is available with selected optional cast-in non-glare finishes to overcome front surface reflections. These finishes can improve readability whilst offering advantages in that they cannot chip, peel or rub off.
Optolite Clear HSR is cast in-house down to 0.5mm thickness for applications where maximum viewing angle is required or where space is at a premium. Thicker filters are manufactured for when impact resistance takes priority. Tight thickness tolerances are supplied for specialised applications.
An optional Ultra-Violet inhibitor additive can also be incorporated within the cast HSR material. This additive blocks UVA which is the UV next to blue light in the visible region. UVA HSR can be used to help protect materials from harmful ultra-violet found in strong sunlight.
A further option incorporates a blackened stainless steel mesh for electromagnetic shielding. Full edge termination service is available. These mesh filters typically give a protection of 60-70dB over the frequency range 100KHz to 1GHz. Effective shielding is becoming increasing important with the introduction of new legislation.
Diffusers
In applications where bright LED's cause "burn out" or uneven illumination of display, Optolite™ Diffusers soften the light and give an even illumination.
Instrument Plastics Ltd also offers full silk screening services. A silk screened border onto the reverse side of the filter and perhaps incorporating a logo, provides an attractive and inexpensive way of producing a bezel.
This may also enhance the aesthetic appearance of the system. Double sided adhesive tape can be used for attaching the filter quickly and easily to the display.
To view technical data tables please download the data sheet PDF.
Optolite™ shielded filter windows have been designed for electronic displays, combining a high level of electromagnetic shielding with excellent contrast enhancement.
An EMC Shielded Window and MRI Window is used extensively to minimise radio frequency emissions generated by enclosed electronic equipment and to protect electronic equipment from electromagnetic interference arising from external sources.
Features:
- Up to70dB attenuation
- Can be supplied in Optolite clear HSR (A high scratch resistant ADC polymer) or selected coloured band pass filters to suit most displays
- Available flat or curved
- Excellent impact abrasion, heat and chemical resistance for Optolite Clear HSR
- Light weight
- Robust construction
- Optional blackened wire mesh to reduce mesh reflections
- Cast-in non-glare finishes to cut down front surface reflections
- Micro-fine Mesh incorporated at any desired angle
- Fabricated to customer requirements
- Wide range of busbar termination options available
Our EMC shielded windows have a highly conductive micro-fine wire mesh which attenuates EMI/RFI emissions. Different meshes to suit varying applications are available.
Optolite™ filters are cast in-house as a one piece filter with the mesh totally encapsulated. This approach offers customers a more cost-effective and robust solution to shielding problems, totally eliminating delamination and optical imperfections which can affect ordinary laminated windows.
Typical Applications of Optolite™ Shielded Windows
- Aerospace and Defence
- Radio and telecommunication
- Industrial Manufacturing Equipment
- Medical and Scientific Apparatus
- Information Technology Equipment
- Flat Panel Displays in Electronic Equipment
Properties
Shielding
Absorption of electromagnetic energy is mainly dependant on the mesh conductivity, wire diameter, weave density, electrical contact between intersecting wires, mesh material and edge terminations.
The EMC shielded windows effectiveness, measured by using the "Hole-in-the-Wall" technique, is typically between 60dB and 70dB from 100 KHz to 1GHz and 35dB up to 10GHz for blackened stainless steel meshes.
Optical Characteristics
It is important to colour match band pass filters to the particular display characteristics. Optolite™ transmission, absorption and reflectance are dependant on the filter band pass colour, mesh density and non glare finish. Also, by casting the material as a one piece filter, the transmission is improved by reducing the number of internal reflecting surfaces from four to two compared to laminated windows.
Physical Design
Our EMC windows are supplied fabricated to customer requirements. Overall standard thicknesses are 2.5, 3, 4, 6mm. Other, non-standard thicknesses, from 1mm upwards, are also available to order together with an optional non glare finish.
Weight
For larger displays, weight can be an extremely important consideration in the design of shielded windows. Optolite™ Clear HSR and Optolite™ coloured acrylic filters weigh only half as much as glass. Additionally, an acrylic filter is up to five times as resistant to breakage as a comparable glass filter.
Mesh
Various types of mesh are offered which can be treated to produce a matt black non reflective finish. Alternatively, a standard metallic finish can be incorporated in band pass filters where the colour reduces the need for blackened mesh. Typically, the wire diameters range from .025mm to 0.5mm and the weave densities vary from 50 OPI (Opening per inch) to 200 OPI mesh. The mesh can be set at any angle up to 45° in more demanding applications to restrict the possibility of moiré fringes where this is important.
Edge Termination
In one piece filters, the conductive mesh is exposed along the edge of the optolite filter after it is cut to size. A silver conductive busbar is added to the edge and then extended, if required, to the front or rear surface.
The conductive circuit from the mesh is then completed either through the busbar or else via a conductive elastomer gasket attached to the busbar. Other edge termination methods are also available.
Gasket
The conductive gasket consists typically of aluminium or monel wires, which are crimped for maximum pressure. The wires are oriented perpendicular to the mating surfaces and integrally bonded into a silicone elastomer. The elastomer acts either as an environmental seal or as a pressure seal. Again, other types of gaskets are also available.
Instrument Plastics Ltd will be pleased to advise on the design and construction of Optolite™ shielded windows for specific applications.
Optolite IR (infrared) broad band acrylic infrared pass filters have been specially formulated to transmit infrared radiation at wavelengths greater than approximately 750nm and are thereby virtually opaque to visible light.
Our Infrared filters are eminently suitable for use in photometric systems which are triggered by near infrared signals but which must operate in environments with high levels of visible radiation. Optolite IR infrared filters eliminates the visible spectrum and so improves the effectiveness of the system by increasing the signal-to-noise ratio
Specific applications include remote controls, security systems, presence sensing devices, proximity sensors and scanners.
Optolite IR Transmission Characteristics
Features include:
- Excellent Transmittance up to a maximum of approximately 90% in the infrared region from 850nm – 2000nm, 50% transmission at 780nm and effectively 0% below 740nm in the visible spectrum.
- Cast-in Non-Glare Finish available as an option to cut down any unwanted front surface reflections.
- Filters supplied to Customer Drawings in standard thicknesses of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0mm. Other, non-standard thicknesses and tight tolerances can be supplied to order.
- Due to its unique properties Acrylic can be machined to size if required by CNC machine or can be etched / cut by a laser cutter . Instrument plastics has an in house machining department with a large array of Laser cutters and CNC routers.
Fully laminated glass windows consist of the two outer layers of glass or plastic bonded together with a clear optical interlayer. Micro-fine meshes and coloured optical films can also be incorporated for maximum contrast enhancement also resulting in strong, rugged displays.
Materials Available – Glass, Polycarbonate and cold laminated acrylic any size or shape can be manufactured to a maximum of 2000mm x 1500mm ( Non Shielded )or 1900mm x 900mm ( Shielded ) with micro-fine mesh set at 90° angle.
For shielded windows a range of edge terminations including flying lead mesh are available together with conductive and adhesive gaskets.
Surface Finishes
Non-Glare coatings are available in various gloss levels, a good cost effective solution in glass and plastic screens.
Multi-layer anti reflection (AR) coatings reduce the surface reflection and maximise the light transmission.
Anti-bacterial coated glass for hospital and medical applications EML filter windows can be manufactured with a micro-fine mesh or a clear conductive ITO coatings.
Privacy screens can be incorporated to reduce the viewing angle on ATM’s and any public information displays.
Instrument Plastics Limited is able to offer a wide range of conductive gaskets and adhesives. These include high bond single and double sided adhesive gaskets, adhesive foam gaskets, conductive adhesive, adhesive tapes, and conductive metal and conductive foam gaskets.
These can be supplied separately cut to form or fitted to the optical display filter to ease assembly of the window to the bezel or display.
Instrument Plastics Limited are able to draw on wide expertise and are pleased to advise and assist in the design and selection of the most suitable type of gasket and filter for each individual application.
A range of Silver and coated transparent ITO film, highly conductive films which use ITO Coatings specifically for use in EMI/RFI shielding and infrared reflection applications. A unique combination of high visible light transmission, nearly neutral colour and low electrical resistance makes it ideal as an EMI shield for electronic displays and membrane switches. Instrument plastics film products are outstanding in their ability to transmit visible light while reflecting infrared heat (see graph). Products which make use of these optical characteristics include projector lamp shields, theatrical lighting filters and windows.
Standard products are 4 Ohm, 8 Ohm and 15 Ohm, the number designation indicating the surface resistance in ohms per square. Both are available on rolls of optical grade polyester film. Films can be CNC cut to any shape and also laminated between abrasion resistant optical plastic and glass.
We sell ITO Film in packs of 5 to buy online click here or click on shop in the top navigation.
For further technical table data please download the data sheet below.
Vikuiti™ Linear Polarising Filters
With a diverse selection of Vikuiti™ Linear polarising filters in bespoke sizes and a variety light transmissions Instrument plastics can assist you in improving the readability of your electronic displays. Moreover our polarising and (Optolite™) non-polarising filters reduce the glare of electronic displays whilst enhancing contrast. Our range of linear polarising products and wave retarders can be used in applications such as stress analysis, 3D projection systems and photography.
Instrument Plastics Limited are professionals in the industry and offer customers:
- production to customer specifications
- short delivery times
- competitive prices
- wide range of materials
- small samples of materials on request
Proven expertise in CNC machining, drilling, routing, silk screen printing, engraving and forming are additional services available from Instrument Plastics Limited.
Existing customers include major companies in aerospace, defence, scientific, medical, electronics, electronic component, stress analysis and photographic industries.
Linear Polarisers
Synthetic Linear polarising filters (polarisers) possess special properties for selectively absorbing light vibrations in certain planes. When unpolarised light, which is a complex mixture of vibrations lying in all possible directions transverse to the line of travel, is passed through a linear polariser its vibrations become confined to a single linear plane and the light is considered "polarised". This linearly polarised light can be modified to suppress unwanted reflections and to eliminate glare for a variety of applications.
Polaroid Linear Polariser Transmission
Polariser: HN32Type: Neutral linear polariser
Features: Represents the best balance between transmission and extinction for general use. Extinction transmission is about 0.005%.
Typical Applications: Variable density filter systems, photoelastic stress analysis and other application where light modulation is necessary.
Polariser: HN38Type: Neutral linear polariser
Features: Exceptionally free from colour distortion.
Typical Applications: Camera filters, studio light filters, variable colour filter systems, other applications where high transmission is required along with a medium extinction density.
Polariser: HN42Type: Neutral linear polariser
Features: High transmission.
Typical Applications: Photographic, spectrographic and other applications where insertion losses must be kept to a minimum.
Graph Legend:
A = Single Polariser; B = Two Polarisers, Axes Parallel; C = Two Polarisers, Axes Crossed
Vikuiti™ Circular Polarising Filters
With a diverse selection of Vikuiti Circular polarising filters in bespoke sizes and a variety light transmissions Instrument plastics can assist you in improving the readability of your electronic displays. Moreover our Vikuiti™ Circular polariser and (Optolite™) non-polarising filters reduce the glare of electronic displays whilst enhancing contrast. Our range of linear polarising products and wave retarders can be used in applications such as stress analysis, 3D projection systems and photography.
Instrument Plastics Limited are professionals in the industry and offer customers:
- production to customer specifications
- short delivery times
- competitive prices
- wide range of materials
- small samples of materials on request
Proven expertise in CNC machining, drilling, routing, silk screen printing, engraving and forming are additional services available from Instrument Plastics Limited.
Existing customers include major companies in aerospace, defence, scientific, medical, electronic, electronic component, stress analysis and photographic industries.
Circular Polarisers
A Vikuiti circular polariser comprises a linear polariser and a 1/4 wave retarder whose slow and fast axes are at 45° to the axis of the polariser. A ray of unpolarised light, passing through the linear polariser, becomes polarised at 45° to the axis of the retarder. When this polarised light ray passes through the retarder its vibration direction is made to move in a helical pattern. After the light ray is reflected from a specular surface the sense of rotation of the vibration reverses. This rotation is stopped in the return through the retarder. The light ray is now linearly polarised in a plane 90° to its original polarisation plane, and is absorbed by the linearly polarised component of the circular polariser. A Vikuiti circular polariser effectively acts like a light valve blocking light completely and therefore offers the ultimate in contrast enhancement.
Thickness Tolerance Information:
0.76mm +0.05/–0.10mm, 1.83mm +0.36/–0.46mm, 3.35mm +/–0.64mm, 4.83 +/–0.46mm
Non standard colours and thicknesses are available on request.
Instrument Plastics Limited are pleased to announce an addition to the Optolite™ range of contrast enhancement filter windows, with Optolite™ IPL 650 Plum.
This colour has been specially formulated to enhance the appearance of green VFD displays by transforming the green characters into white with the background remaining black.
- Available with a standard or non-glare finish
- Choice of thicknesses from 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0mm PLUS special thicknesses available on request
- Fabrication to individual requirements from one-off prototypes to full production
- Preparation of artwork & silk screen printing
- Shielded EMI/RFI versions available
Optolite™ Backlights are available as custom design displays.
With high brightness + low current they give even illumination.
Instrument Plastics Ltd offers a custom service in LED backlight design with the following benefits:
- Low cost
- High brightness
- Low current
- Even illumination
- Design flexibility
- Easy application
Operation
For data tables, application notes and options please download the PDF data sheet.
Optolite optical grade acrylic filters have been specifically formulated by Instrument Plastics Ltd to optimise the readability of electronic displays under adverse conditions by enhancing contrast and reducing glare whilst improving the appearance of the display.
Services Offered
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Other Optolite Products
Also Available
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Instrument Plastics Ltd are able to draw on wide expertise and are pleased to advise and assist in the design and selection of the most suitable type of filter for each individual application.
Selection of Filters
Readability
The most important factor for all types of electronic display is readability, which can be difficult under conditions ranging from darkness to bright sunlight. Also, reflected light from the display can cause further viewing difficulties.
Method of Operation
Optolite optical grade filters have been developed to overcome these problems. Readability is improved by increasing the relative contrast between the lit and unlit parts of the display. Band pass filters increase contrast by passing the wavelengths of light from the display whist partially absorbing other wavelengths of ambient light. Selected optolite colours are available which are matched to the transmission characteristics of the display.
Factors to Consider
When matching optolite filters to particular displays to obtain optimum contrast, careful consideration should be given to the transmission curve, shape, attenuation at peak wavelength, wavelength cut off and front surface reflectance. The design needs to consider aesthetics as the appearance of the finished product should also be enhanced. Optolite filters provide the most cost-effective answer to display improvement where the performance of a circular polariser may be partially traded off against price.
Non Glare Finishes
Optolite filters are available with various grades of optional cast-in non-glare finishes. They are manufactured to customer specifications to produce either filters or display panels. The cast-in finish offers advantages in that it cannot chip, peel or rub off.
MANUFACTURERS OF OPTOLITE CONTRAST ENHANCEMENT FILTERS
SHIELDED WINDOWS – INSTRUMENT GLASSES
POLARISING FILTERS
To view the Filter Application Summary please download the PDF data sheet.
Optolite™ Light Diffusion Filters
Optolite™ Light Diffusion Filters offer good light transmission with a uniform light diffusion.
Features include:
- Prevents interference fringes
- Good chemical resistance
- Special thicknesses 0.5 – 2.0mm available
- CNC machining & silk screen printing to customers requirements
- Colour’s available on request
Privacy Glass - The microlouvers allow for controlled viewing so an unauthorised observer's line of sight is blocked. It is ideal for confidential viewing on CRTs, Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) and anywhere privacy viewing is desired. (Fig 1).
Sunlight Readability – The microlouvers help block out annoying off-axis light while maximising the transmission from the display to the viewer. The result is improved display contrast with minimal loss of brightness (Fig 2).
Light Directing - Light is directed to where it is needed or away from where it is not. It eliminates night-time window reflections in automotive and aeronautical applications. It can also be used to hide the light source in incandescent lighting applications. (Fig 3).
Contrast Enhancement - contrast is improved and glare reduced on electronic displays by blocking out annoying off-axis light, making the display more comfortable to read. The microlouvers maximise the transmission from the display to improve the image with little loss of brightness.
Applications
There are numerous uses for displays where privacy is an integral requirement. Outside ATM machines, in flight entertainments screens, secure access entry equipment and other avionic settings are just a few possible applications.
Further Options
An abrasion and solvent resistant coating can also be added to the privacy film to prevent Chipping, peeling or flaking of the film from its substrate. Yet treated film is still clear and transparent with less than 0.5% haze added to the base material.
The light control film can also be specified with gloss or matte finish depending on whether surface glare needs to be reduced.
Matte finish (75% gloss) - Reduce surface glare (specular reflections)
Gloss finish (100% gloss) - Improved display character resolution.
In addition non-resistant treated film can be screen printed. Finally resistant and non-resistant film can be mounted with a frame, bezel or supported by a cover sheet.
Dimensions (Film)
- Thicknesses 0.030”-0.034” (0.53-0.81mm)
- Lengths 10” and 30” (254 and 762mm)
- Width 12” (305mm)
The privacy film can also be die-cut for specialized requirements as well as be adapted to fit spherical surfaces such as CRT’s.
Instrument Plastics is pleased to offer a large range of the highest quality mesh sheets which can be incorporated into a variety of shielded windows, apertures and displays.
Our mesh is offered in a matt black non reflective finish or in a standard metallic finish depending on the required application.
Key features of Instrument plastics Mesh:
- Instrument Plastics can process blackened copper mesh sheets up to 2000mm (78.7’) x 1100mm (43.3’).
- Alternatively we can process stainless steel mesh sheets up to 1000mm (39.4’) x 650mm (25.6’)
- Manufactured on site at our facility in the UK ensuring unparalleled quality in terms of finish, conductivity and EMI performance.
Standard Mesh Sheets available
Silver plated and blackened stainless steel mesh
- 50, 80 opi, 0.001’’ (0.025mm).
- The standard mesh angle is 90’ but this can be altered to the exact specification of the customer.
- Max size 1000mm (39.4’) x 650mm (25.6’)
Blackened Copper mesh
- 50, 80 , 100 opi (Other opi’s available on request) 0.001’ 0.025mm / 0.002’ 0.05mm
- Standard stock sheets 505mm (19.9’) x 665mm (26.2’)
- Extra-large sheets can be supplied up to 2000mm (78.7’) x 1100mm (43.3’).
- The standard mesh angle is 90’ but this can be altered to the exact specification of the customer.
We can supply un-blackened mesh by the roll or we can cut down all mesh types to a final size and shape.
Alongside our Blackened mesh offerings Instrument plastics can also supply conductive Nickel polyester mesh.
Features:
- Outstanding conductivity and high light permeability
- Fine mesh prevents Moire
- High aperture ratio (Up to 82%)
- Thin, light, and flexible
- Suitable for large applications, up to 1460mm width available
- Can be supplied in sheet form or in Glass / Polycarbonate laminations
Applications:
- EMI shield for displays
- EMI shield for windows against electromagnetic waves
- EMI shield against heat radiation
Image courtesy of Health Protection Agency, Didcot
PADC (polyallyl diglycol carbonate) also known as CR39 is a thermoset resin that is commonly used as optical plastic for display applications and is also a particularly sensitive etch-track detector for personal neutron and Radon dosimetry.
Instrument Plastics CR39 is available as sheets or fabricated detector elements at high dimensional tolerance to customer specification. Our CR39 is produced at high purity and consistent quality to suit this demanding application. Also suitable for neutron detectors at accelerators, high power laser fusion etc.
Please contact Mi-Net Technology Ltd for further information. www.mi-net.co.uk
Established in 1986, Mi-Net Technology Ltd has been serving research and industry over two decades, specialising in single crystal materials and associated products. We represent a wide range of American and European manufacturers of electronic materials and equipment.
A fully laminated anti-glare touch screen consists of a polycarbonate screen with a strengthened glass front which provides scratch resistance while the functionality of the touch screen is not impacted. At Instrument plastics we can provide laminated anti-glare screens with drastically increased integral strength and unimpaired optical clarity. Each laminated touch screen is hand assembled in clean room conditions. This is to ensure consistent high quality due to the demanding applications for which the shielded touch screens may be used.
Rugged Displays
Overall with added durability and impact resistance our shielded touch screens can be used in a variety of military, aviation, medical and industrial applications.
At instrument plastics all major touch screens can be laminated, this includes –
- 4 wire resistive
- 7/8 wire resistive
- 5/6 wire resistive
- Surface acoustic wave
- Infrared
- Infrared shadow
- Surface Capacitive
- Projective Capacitive
We are also happy to advise customers on what Touch screen would best suit there requirements due to the numerous types of touch screen available.
Instrument plastics can also incorporate into touch screens -
- EMI Shielding
- Colour /tinted windows
- Privacy windows
- Circular Polarisation for improved sunlight readability.
- Printing on the glass
- Gaskets
- Transparent heater
- Chemically strengthened laminated glass
Other applications
- Anti-vandal touch screens
- Polycarbonate toughened screens for medical and food processing manufacturers.
- Bullet resistance lamination
Overall Instrument plastics can supply touch screens for a variety of applications where durability and wide ranging temperature stability are paramount.
Instrument Plastics designs and manufactures ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) transparent glass heated screens and laminations. Specifically designed for EMI and LCD/TFT display protection for use in extreme environments ensuring optimum use in changing conditions.
Providing a fast and uniform temperature control our ITO heated screens may be constructed as single or multi-layer laminations to protect against misting, frosting and fogging of windows, including advanced RFI designs and graphical artwork to provide custom solutions.
Customer Designs
Heated screens may form part of complex LCD assembly stacks with inclusion of Touch Screens, TFT LCDs and RFI shielding meshes, customer specific gaskets and environmental seals. Instrument plastics designs and manufactures' at its UK facility bespoke solutions from low volume evaluations samples to large scale production requirements without tooling or additional engineering charges. Consult Instrument Plastics to discuss your bespoke design requirements.
Instrument Plastics can assist in sourcing, cutting and die cutting adhesive gasket sheets into bespoke sizes.
With our range of X/Y plotting machines we can produce a limited number of parts without the need for tooling (Only a DXF/ CAD file is required). These machines also automatically nest the shapes on the material to be cut ensuring minimal wastage.
This option is particularly suited to thinner materials, the plotter works by using a blade (or other tools) fixed into a head to cut material which is held down onto a bed by a vacuum. The maximum working area of our machines is 1600mm x 2000mm.
Overall this process is ideal for small production runs and allows the end user to have prototypes produced in a far shorter time window.
Features of Computer aided Gasket cutting
- Rapid prototyping
- Small batch runs
Benefits of Computer aided Gasket cutting
- Reduces development timescales
- Lowers R&D costs
- Can directly use DXF / CAD file from end customer
As mentioned above we still continue to use traditional die cutting with higher volume orders or to cut thicker adhesive gaskets that cannot be cut on our plotting equipment.
Instrument Plastics can now offer a range of shielded glass displays with a conductive coating on one side to prevent EMI/RFI.
Key features
- Precision cut to size parts
- High light transmission
- Excellent shielding performance
- Scratch resistant
- Available with or without thermal toughening for extra impact resistance.
- Laminated version available for extra strength and security
- Etched non-glare or multilayer anti-reflection coating can be specified.
- Busbar contact edges available if required in either copper , aluminium or printed conductive ink
Typical applications
- Medical and Military LED/LCD monitors.
- Shielded cameras
- Sensors and displays
- EMI / RF Shielding
Technical details
- Light Transmission – 84%
- Electrical resistance- 10-12 Ohms
- Temperatures -60/+110 ℃
- EMI Shielding effectiveness – 5-60dB (10kHz-40GHz)
- Available thicknesses 3, 4 and 6mm.
Other options available
- 1.1mm Thin float glass in 5 Ohms/sq and 12-15 Ohms/sq
85 OPI mesh at 40x magnification
Instrument plastics are delighted to announce a new range of Emishield Micromesh products which have been developed to give excellent shielding performance and offer unequalled light transmission and clarity. Furthermore Instrument Plastics can now offer 85, 100 and 150 OPI Micromesh variants which can be supplied with Protective film and adhesive if required. This means that the Micromesh can be directly applied to Glass or polycarbonate displays if needed. However in order to achieve the best optical finish as well as ensure longevity we would recommend integrating the mesh in a fully laminated window.
Overview of Optolite Emishield Micromesh
Our Micromesh consists of an optical quality Pet film which has a Copper layer deposited in a lattice/grid pattern and is further protected by a Nickel layer. This ensures the film has a conductive layer with a very fine etched mesh that is also fully integrated with the transparent carrier. Overall this gives our Micromesh the important properties of high transparency (No moiré effect), low resistance for high-frequency EMI shielding as well as easy application.
Structure
Important note
The micromesh can be affected by acid found on human skin. As a result we would suggest handling this material with Gloves or having an additional transparent film layer applied. In terms of the optical specification for this product small defects are passable. For further information please contact sales@instrumentplastics.co.uk.
Application
• Shielding rooms , Computer rooms , laboratory and Instrumentation windows
• LCD Windows , military and medical devices and equipment
• Phone screen shielding
• EMI shielding for displays and windows
Sizes
• Maximum useable width is 1500mm
• Length – Can supply in mm/ Meters if required.
• Bespoke sheets / sizes are available if CAD / PDF files are emailed to sales@instrumentplastics.co.uk
Physical and performance properties
Instrument plastics offer a full range of Polycarbonate windows. Machine sizes available with optically clear or non-glare abrasion resistance coatings. Various thicknesses available by optical lamination. Colours also available.
Benefits of Optolite™ Polycarbonate
- High impact resistance
- Excellent flammability rating
- Comparable to glass in terms of clarity but a far lighter substrate.
Optolite™ Polycarbonate (Colours/Colors)
Instrument plastics can also offer a range of polycarbonate sheets in a wide range of colours. Typical applications would be LED, Electro- luminescent and Vacuum Fluorescent displays.
Optolite™IR Blocking Laminated Polycarbonate
This is a clear film lamination which maintains high visible light transmission while blocking infrared heat. This is non-metallic and neutral in colour.
Key properties
- Reduces solar radiation by up to 34% with minimal reduction of visiblelight
- Multilayer film selectively blocks infrared light, thus reducingheat
- Available in Glass orPolycarbonate
- Neutral in colour, low reflectivity, lowabsorption
- Available with AR / ITO coatings, tints and alternative finishes
- Corrosion free, non-metallictechnology
- No interference with radionfrequencies
Instrument Plastics offers a range of glasses which can be machined to size. We can also provide a wide range of laminated solutions.
Float Glass & Low Iron Glass (Water white glass)
- Typically made from soda Lime glass, or Low Iron Glass (Water white glass)
Benefits:
- A cost effective solution
- High visible light transmittance
- Chemical and scratch resistance
- Can be easily laminated to offer greater durability and impact resistance
Maximum window size - 2000 x 1200mm (78 x 47’’)
Range of thicknesses - 0.8mm, 1.1mm, 1.6mm, 2.0mm, 3.0mm, 4.0mm, 6.00mm
(0.03’’, 0.04’’, 0.06’’, 0.08’’, 0.12’’, 0.16’’, 0.24’’)
Colours - Clear and neutral
Edge finishes - Instrument plastics can offer a range of glass finishes. These include clean-cut, flat ground, bevelling and polished.
Anti-reflective glass
Anti-reflection coatings dramatically reduces reflections by a factor of ten to less than 0.5%.
Maximum window size - 1100 x 1580mm
Range of thicknesses - 1.0mm, 2.0mm, 3.0mm, 4.0mm
(0.03’’, 0.07’’, 0.11’’0.15’’)
Other thicknesses available by optical lamination.
Non-Glare Etched Glass
- Instrument plastics can also supply with Glass with an acid etched surface.
Benefits
- An ideal solution for a range of displays
- A cost effective solution
Maximum window size - 1600 x 920mm
Range of thicknesses - 1.1mm, 1.6mm, 2.0mm, 3.0mm, 4.0mm
Other thicknesses available by optical lamination.
Thermally hardened and toughened Glass
Our thermally hardened glass is twice as strong as standard tempered glass and five times stronger than untempered glass.
Benefits
- Can be used in extreme and challenging environments. Moreover hardened and toughened glass has a high impact resistance.
- Added safety
- Can be used when there is a high temperature differential between the two faces.
Thicknesses available 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, and 19mm.
ITO Glass
- An optimum solution for specific scientific and shielding applications. We can also offer in ITO GLass in laminated form here.
IR Blocking Laminated Glass
This is a clear glass lamination which maintains high visible light transmission while blocking infrared heat. This is non-metallic and neutral in colour.
Key properties
- Reduces solar radiation by up to 34% with minimal reduction of visiblelight
- Multilayer film selectively blocks infrared light, thus reducingheat
- Available in Glass orPolycarbonate
- Neutral in colour, low reflectivity, lowabsorption
- Available with AR / ITO coatings, tints and alternative finishes
- Corrosion free, non-metallictechnology
- No interference with radionfrequencies
Optolite HSR AR is an optical material with a broadband AR coating applied to both sides.
The Anti Reflective coating is hard wearing and ideal for direct sunlight readability displays.
Optolite HSR AR is available as a clear or EMI Shielded sheet this thicknesses ranging from 1mm thick to 8mm thick. The optical surface can either be clear gloss or one of our non-glare finishes.
The base Optolite HSR material also benefits from being highly scratch and chemical resistant throughout the material.
Optolite HSR AR gives the option of a light weight and tough alternative to glass. It can be easily machined and drilled.
Printing and gasket application is also available if needed.
Instrument Plastics new optical bonding service can be incorporated into a variety of optical displays, cover lens’s and touch screens. The IP Solisbond process provides an innovative engineered solution whilst our new class 10,000 clean room bonding facility ensures unparalleled quality. With our extensive knowledge Instrument plastics can assist you throughout the process from initial design and material selection to final production. We can also assist you in choosing suitable touch screens and other optical display configurations.
Features of IP Solisbond bonded displays:
- Can be customized to be used in automotive and marine applications where an operating temperature range of (-30Cto+85C) is required.
The IP Solisbond
Mechanism
- Reflection loss is about 8%due to air gap
- IP Solisbond reduces sunshine reflection and loss of light from backlight units
Key Benefits
- Improved Sunlight Readability:
Decreases reflection on the display glass from external light source, hence improves the contrast ratio. - Shock-resistant:
Adhesive is soft and not brittle - Re-workable process:
High yield:1%~5% yield loss of display,1%yield loss of cover lens and touch panel - Improved Luminance:
Reduces light loss from backlight units which increases luminance for about 8% - Straight forward process:
No UV curing required - Green process and material
- Cost-effective
Test Summary
- IP Solisbond can withstand temperature ranges between -40C to +200C
- Does not suffer from the UV effects,so it doesn’t become brittle or yellow when exposed to direct sunlight
Optolite™ Clear HSR (High scratch resistance) is a highly durable optically clear material. Key features include high chemical, scratch and impact resistance. It is especially suited to LCD’s and other display applications (Instrument covers, windows) where these characteristics are of a particular importance. An early version of this polymer was sold under the trade name CR-39®. Overall, our HSR material combines the optical quality and chemical resistance of glass with the lightweight performance of plastic.
Examples of applications which require an HSR optical window:
- Avionics displays
- Barcode scanners
- Industrial instruments
- Medical device instruments
- Navigation instruments
- Oscilloscopes
- Scanning devices
- Security sensors
- Test equipment
- Military displays
- Automotive displays
LCD’s often suffer from a number of problems:
- Soft front surface polariser
– can be subject to damage from scratching, dirt, moisture, finger marks, etc. - Front surface reflections
– in certain lighting conditions these may cause display reading difficulties - Restricted viewing angles
– caused by LCD construction and method of operating - Possible Ultra Violet degradation in strong sunlight
- Shielding from electromagnetic interference
- Sourcing of bezels
– not always possible or feasible with so many different LCD sizes available
Choice of Optolite Clear HSR
Instrument Plastics Ltd offers their Optolite Clear HSR (High Scratch Resistant) filter to overcome these problems on LCD’s. It is also especially recommended in display applications requiring the characteristics mentioned below.
Optolite Clear HSR has both outstanding abrasion resistance, up to 20 times that of acrylics, and excellent impact resistance. It is also chemical resistant, being immune to the effects of virtually all common solvents. It is lightweight, approximately half that of glass, and exhibits optical properties comparable to crown glass. Its maximum continuous operating temperature is in excess of 100°C.
Optolite Clear HSR is available with selected optional cast-in non-glare finishes to overcome front surface reflections. These finishes can improve readability whilst offering advantages in that they cannot chip, peel or rub off.
Optolite Clear HSR is cast in-house down to 0.5mm thickness for applications where maximum viewing angle is required or where space is at a premium. Thicker filters are manufactured for when impact resistance takes priority. Tight thickness tolerances are supplied for specialised applications.
An optional Ultra-Violet inhibitor additive can also be incorporated within the cast HSR material. This additive blocks UVA which is the UV next to blue light in the visible region. UVA HSR can be used to help protect materials from harmful ultra-violet found in strong sunlight.
A further option incorporates a blackened stainless steel mesh for electromagnetic shielding. Full edge termination service is available. These mesh filters typically give a protection of 60-70dB over the frequency range 100KHz to 1GHz. Effective shielding is becoming increasing important with the introduction of new legislation.
Diffusers
In applications where bright LED's cause "burn out" or uneven illumination of display, Optolite™ Diffusers soften the light and give an even illumination.
Instrument Plastics Ltd also offers full silk screening services. A silk screened border onto the reverse side of the filter and perhaps incorporating a logo, provides an attractive and inexpensive way of producing a bezel.
This may also enhance the aesthetic appearance of the system. Double sided adhesive tape can be used for attaching the filter quickly and easily to the display.
To view technical data tables please download the data sheet PDF.
Optolite™ shielded filter windows have been designed for electronic displays, combining a high level of electromagnetic shielding with excellent contrast enhancement.
An EMC Shielded Window and MRI Window is used extensively to minimise radio frequency emissions generated by enclosed electronic equipment and to protect electronic equipment from electromagnetic interference arising from external sources.
Features:
- Up to70dB attenuation
- Can be supplied in Optolite clear HSR (A high scratch resistant ADC polymer) or selected coloured band pass filters to suit most displays
- Available flat or curved
- Excellent impact abrasion, heat and chemical resistance for Optolite Clear HSR
- Light weight
- Robust construction
- Optional blackened wire mesh to reduce mesh reflections
- Cast-in non-glare finishes to cut down front surface reflections
- Micro-fine Mesh incorporated at any desired angle
- Fabricated to customer requirements
- Wide range of busbar termination options available
Our EMC shielded windows have a highly conductive micro-fine wire mesh which attenuates EMI/RFI emissions. Different meshes to suit varying applications are available.
Optolite™ filters are cast in-house as a one piece filter with the mesh totally encapsulated. This approach offers customers a more cost-effective and robust solution to shielding problems, totally eliminating delamination and optical imperfections which can affect ordinary laminated windows.
Typical Applications of Optolite™ Shielded Windows
- Aerospace and Defence
- Radio and telecommunication
- Industrial Manufacturing Equipment
- Medical and Scientific Apparatus
- Information Technology Equipment
- Flat Panel Displays in Electronic Equipment
Properties
Shielding
Absorption of electromagnetic energy is mainly dependant on the mesh conductivity, wire diameter, weave density, electrical contact between intersecting wires, mesh material and edge terminations.
The EMC shielded windows effectiveness, measured by using the "Hole-in-the-Wall" technique, is typically between 60dB and 70dB from 100 KHz to 1GHz and 35dB up to 10GHz for blackened stainless steel meshes.
Optical Characteristics
It is important to colour match band pass filters to the particular display characteristics. Optolite™ transmission, absorption and reflectance are dependant on the filter band pass colour, mesh density and non glare finish. Also, by casting the material as a one piece filter, the transmission is improved by reducing the number of internal reflecting surfaces from four to two compared to laminated windows.
Physical Design
Our EMC windows are supplied fabricated to customer requirements. Overall standard thicknesses are 2.5, 3, 4, 6mm. Other, non-standard thicknesses, from 1mm upwards, are also available to order together with an optional non glare finish.
Weight
For larger displays, weight can be an extremely important consideration in the design of shielded windows. Optolite™ Clear HSR and Optolite™ coloured acrylic filters weigh only half as much as glass. Additionally, an acrylic filter is up to five times as resistant to breakage as a comparable glass filter.
Mesh
Various types of mesh are offered which can be treated to produce a matt black non reflective finish. Alternatively, a standard metallic finish can be incorporated in band pass filters where the colour reduces the need for blackened mesh. Typically, the wire diameters range from .025mm to 0.5mm and the weave densities vary from 50 OPI (Opening per inch) to 200 OPI mesh. The mesh can be set at any angle up to 45° in more demanding applications to restrict the possibility of moiré fringes where this is important.
Edge Termination
In one piece filters, the conductive mesh is exposed along the edge of the optolite filter after it is cut to size. A silver conductive busbar is added to the edge and then extended, if required, to the front or rear surface.
The conductive circuit from the mesh is then completed either through the busbar or else via a conductive elastomer gasket attached to the busbar. Other edge termination methods are also available.
Gasket
The conductive gasket consists typically of aluminium or monel wires, which are crimped for maximum pressure. The wires are oriented perpendicular to the mating surfaces and integrally bonded into a silicone elastomer. The elastomer acts either as an environmental seal or as a pressure seal. Again, other types of gaskets are also available.
Instrument Plastics Ltd will be pleased to advise on the design and construction of Optolite™ shielded windows for specific applications.
Optolite IR (infrared) broad band acrylic infrared pass filters have been specially formulated to transmit infrared radiation at wavelengths greater than approximately 750nm and are thereby virtually opaque to visible light.
Our Infrared filters are eminently suitable for use in photometric systems which are triggered by near infrared signals but which must operate in environments with high levels of visible radiation. Optolite IR infrared filters eliminates the visible spectrum and so improves the effectiveness of the system by increasing the signal-to-noise ratio
Specific applications include remote controls, security systems, presence sensing devices, proximity sensors and scanners.
Optolite IR Transmission Characteristics
Features include:
- Excellent Transmittance up to a maximum of approximately 90% in the infrared region from 850nm – 2000nm, 50% transmission at 780nm and effectively 0% below 740nm in the visible spectrum.
- Cast-in Non-Glare Finish available as an option to cut down any unwanted front surface reflections.
- Filters supplied to Customer Drawings in standard thicknesses of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0mm. Other, non-standard thicknesses and tight tolerances can be supplied to order.
- Due to its unique properties Acrylic can be machined to size if required by CNC machine or can be etched / cut by a laser cutter . Instrument plastics has an in house machining department with a large array of Laser cutters and CNC routers.
Fully laminated glass windows consist of the two outer layers of glass or plastic bonded together with a clear optical interlayer. Micro-fine meshes and coloured optical films can also be incorporated for maximum contrast enhancement also resulting in strong, rugged displays.
Materials Available – Glass, Polycarbonate and cold laminated acrylic any size or shape can be manufactured to a maximum of 2000mm x 1500mm ( Non Shielded )or 1900mm x 900mm ( Shielded ) with micro-fine mesh set at 90° angle.
For shielded windows a range of edge terminations including flying lead mesh are available together with conductive and adhesive gaskets.
Surface Finishes
Non-Glare coatings are available in various gloss levels, a good cost effective solution in glass and plastic screens.
Multi-layer anti reflection (AR) coatings reduce the surface reflection and maximise the light transmission.
Anti-bacterial coated glass for hospital and medical applications EML filter windows can be manufactured with a micro-fine mesh or a clear conductive ITO coatings.
Privacy screens can be incorporated to reduce the viewing angle on ATM’s and any public information displays.
Instrument Plastics Limited is able to offer a wide range of conductive gaskets and adhesives. These include high bond single and double sided adhesive gaskets, adhesive foam gaskets, conductive adhesive, adhesive tapes, and conductive metal and conductive foam gaskets.
These can be supplied separately cut to form or fitted to the optical display filter to ease assembly of the window to the bezel or display.
Instrument Plastics Limited are able to draw on wide expertise and are pleased to advise and assist in the design and selection of the most suitable type of gasket and filter for each individual application.
A range of Silver and coated transparent ITO film, highly conductive films which use ITO Coatings specifically for use in EMI/RFI shielding and infrared reflection applications. A unique combination of high visible light transmission, nearly neutral colour and low electrical resistance makes it ideal as an EMI shield for electronic displays and membrane switches. Instrument plastics film products are outstanding in their ability to transmit visible light while reflecting infrared heat (see graph). Products which make use of these optical characteristics include projector lamp shields, theatrical lighting filters and windows.
Standard products are 4 Ohm, 8 Ohm and 15 Ohm, the number designation indicating the surface resistance in ohms per square. Both are available on rolls of optical grade polyester film. Films can be CNC cut to any shape and also laminated between abrasion resistant optical plastic and glass.
We sell ITO Film in packs of 5 to buy online click here or click on shop in the top navigation.
For further technical table data please download the data sheet below.
Vikuiti™ Linear Polarising Filters
With a diverse selection of Vikuiti™ Linear polarising filters in bespoke sizes and a variety light transmissions Instrument plastics can assist you in improving the readability of your electronic displays. Moreover our polarising and (Optolite™) non-polarising filters reduce the glare of electronic displays whilst enhancing contrast. Our range of linear polarising products and wave retarders can be used in applications such as stress analysis, 3D projection systems and photography.
Instrument Plastics Limited are professionals in the industry and offer customers:
- production to customer specifications
- short delivery times
- competitive prices
- wide range of materials
- small samples of materials on request
Proven expertise in CNC machining, drilling, routing, silk screen printing, engraving and forming are additional services available from Instrument Plastics Limited.
Existing customers include major companies in aerospace, defence, scientific, medical, electronics, electronic component, stress analysis and photographic industries.
Linear Polarisers
Synthetic Linear polarising filters (polarisers) possess special properties for selectively absorbing light vibrations in certain planes. When unpolarised light, which is a complex mixture of vibrations lying in all possible directions transverse to the line of travel, is passed through a linear polariser its vibrations become confined to a single linear plane and the light is considered "polarised". This linearly polarised light can be modified to suppress unwanted reflections and to eliminate glare for a variety of applications.
Polaroid Linear Polariser Transmission
Polariser: HN32Type: Neutral linear polariser
Features: Represents the best balance between transmission and extinction for general use. Extinction transmission is about 0.005%.
Typical Applications: Variable density filter systems, photoelastic stress analysis and other application where light modulation is necessary.
Polariser: HN38Type: Neutral linear polariser
Features: Exceptionally free from colour distortion.
Typical Applications: Camera filters, studio light filters, variable colour filter systems, other applications where high transmission is required along with a medium extinction density.
Polariser: HN42Type: Neutral linear polariser
Features: High transmission.
Typical Applications: Photographic, spectrographic and other applications where insertion losses must be kept to a minimum.
Graph Legend:
A = Single Polariser; B = Two Polarisers, Axes Parallel; C = Two Polarisers, Axes Crossed
Vikuiti™ Circular Polarising Filters
With a diverse selection of Vikuiti Circular polarising filters in bespoke sizes and a variety light transmissions Instrument plastics can assist you in improving the readability of your electronic displays. Moreover our Vikuiti™ Circular polariser and (Optolite™) non-polarising filters reduce the glare of electronic displays whilst enhancing contrast. Our range of linear polarising products and wave retarders can be used in applications such as stress analysis, 3D projection systems and photography.
Instrument Plastics Limited are professionals in the industry and offer customers:
- production to customer specifications
- short delivery times
- competitive prices
- wide range of materials
- small samples of materials on request
Proven expertise in CNC machining, drilling, routing, silk screen printing, engraving and forming are additional services available from Instrument Plastics Limited.
Existing customers include major companies in aerospace, defence, scientific, medical, electronic, electronic component, stress analysis and photographic industries.
Circular Polarisers
A Vikuiti circular polariser comprises a linear polariser and a 1/4 wave retarder whose slow and fast axes are at 45° to the axis of the polariser. A ray of unpolarised light, passing through the linear polariser, becomes polarised at 45° to the axis of the retarder. When this polarised light ray passes through the retarder its vibration direction is made to move in a helical pattern. After the light ray is reflected from a specular surface the sense of rotation of the vibration reverses. This rotation is stopped in the return through the retarder. The light ray is now linearly polarised in a plane 90° to its original polarisation plane, and is absorbed by the linearly polarised component of the circular polariser. A Vikuiti circular polariser effectively acts like a light valve blocking light completely and therefore offers the ultimate in contrast enhancement.
Thickness Tolerance Information:
0.76mm +0.05/–0.10mm, 1.83mm +0.36/–0.46mm, 3.35mm +/–0.64mm, 4.83 +/–0.46mm
Non standard colours and thicknesses are available on request.
Instrument Plastics Limited are pleased to announce an addition to the Optolite™ range of contrast enhancement filter windows, with Optolite™ IPL 650 Plum.
This colour has been specially formulated to enhance the appearance of green VFD displays by transforming the green characters into white with the background remaining black.
- Available with a standard or non-glare finish
- Choice of thicknesses from 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0mm PLUS special thicknesses available on request
- Fabrication to individual requirements from one-off prototypes to full production
- Preparation of artwork & silk screen printing
- Shielded EMI/RFI versions available
Optolite™ Backlights are available as custom design displays.
With high brightness + low current they give even illumination.
Instrument Plastics Ltd offers a custom service in LED backlight design with the following benefits:
- Low cost
- High brightness
- Low current
- Even illumination
- Design flexibility
- Easy application
Operation
For data tables, application notes and options please download the PDF data sheet.
Optolite optical grade acrylic filters have been specifically formulated by Instrument Plastics Ltd to optimise the readability of electronic displays under adverse conditions by enhancing contrast and reducing glare whilst improving the appearance of the display.
Services Offered
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Other Optolite Products
Also Available
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Instrument Plastics Ltd are able to draw on wide expertise and are pleased to advise and assist in the design and selection of the most suitable type of filter for each individual application.
Selection of Filters
Readability
The most important factor for all types of electronic display is readability, which can be difficult under conditions ranging from darkness to bright sunlight. Also, reflected light from the display can cause further viewing difficulties.
Method of Operation
Optolite optical grade filters have been developed to overcome these problems. Readability is improved by increasing the relative contrast between the lit and unlit parts of the display. Band pass filters increase contrast by passing the wavelengths of light from the display whist partially absorbing other wavelengths of ambient light. Selected optolite colours are available which are matched to the transmission characteristics of the display.
Factors to Consider
When matching optolite filters to particular displays to obtain optimum contrast, careful consideration should be given to the transmission curve, shape, attenuation at peak wavelength, wavelength cut off and front surface reflectance. The design needs to consider aesthetics as the appearance of the finished product should also be enhanced. Optolite filters provide the most cost-effective answer to display improvement where the performance of a circular polariser may be partially traded off against price.
Non Glare Finishes
Optolite filters are available with various grades of optional cast-in non-glare finishes. They are manufactured to customer specifications to produce either filters or display panels. The cast-in finish offers advantages in that it cannot chip, peel or rub off.
MANUFACTURERS OF OPTOLITE CONTRAST ENHANCEMENT FILTERS
SHIELDED WINDOWS – INSTRUMENT GLASSES
POLARISING FILTERS
To view the Filter Application Summary please download the PDF data sheet.
Optolite™ Light Diffusion Filters
Optolite™ Light Diffusion Filters offer good light transmission with a uniform light diffusion.
Features include:
- Prevents interference fringes
- Good chemical resistance
- Special thicknesses 0.5 – 2.0mm available
- CNC machining & silk screen printing to customers requirements
- Colour’s available on request
Privacy Glass - The microlouvers allow for controlled viewing so an unauthorised observer's line of sight is blocked. It is ideal for confidential viewing on CRTs, Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) and anywhere privacy viewing is desired. (Fig 1).
Sunlight Readability – The microlouvers help block out annoying off-axis light while maximising the transmission from the display to the viewer. The result is improved display contrast with minimal loss of brightness (Fig 2).
Light Directing - Light is directed to where it is needed or away from where it is not. It eliminates night-time window reflections in automotive and aeronautical applications. It can also be used to hide the light source in incandescent lighting applications. (Fig 3).
Contrast Enhancement - contrast is improved and glare reduced on electronic displays by blocking out annoying off-axis light, making the display more comfortable to read. The microlouvers maximise the transmission from the display to improve the image with little loss of brightness.
Applications
There are numerous uses for displays where privacy is an integral requirement. Outside ATM machines, in flight entertainments screens, secure access entry equipment and other avionic settings are just a few possible applications.
Further Options
An abrasion and solvent resistant coating can also be added to the privacy film to prevent Chipping, peeling or flaking of the film from its substrate. Yet treated film is still clear and transparent with less than 0.5% haze added to the base material.
The light control film can also be specified with gloss or matte finish depending on whether surface glare needs to be reduced.
Matte finish (75% gloss) - Reduce surface glare (specular reflections)
Gloss finish (100% gloss) - Improved display character resolution.
In addition non-resistant treated film can be screen printed. Finally resistant and non-resistant film can be mounted with a frame, bezel or supported by a cover sheet.
Dimensions (Film)
- Thicknesses 0.030”-0.034” (0.53-0.81mm)
- Lengths 10” and 30” (254 and 762mm)
- Width 12” (305mm)
The privacy film can also be die-cut for specialized requirements as well as be adapted to fit spherical surfaces such as CRT’s.
Instrument Plastics is pleased to offer a large range of the highest quality mesh sheets which can be incorporated into a variety of shielded windows, apertures and displays.
Our mesh is offered in a matt black non reflective finish or in a standard metallic finish depending on the required application.
Key features of Instrument plastics Mesh:
- Instrument Plastics can process blackened copper mesh sheets up to 2000mm (78.7’) x 1100mm (43.3’).
- Alternatively we can process stainless steel mesh sheets up to 1000mm (39.4’) x 650mm (25.6’)
- Manufactured on site at our facility in the UK ensuring unparalleled quality in terms of finish, conductivity and EMI performance.
Standard Mesh Sheets available
Silver plated and blackened stainless steel mesh
- 50, 80 opi, 0.001’’ (0.025mm).
- The standard mesh angle is 90’ but this can be altered to the exact specification of the customer.
- Max size 1000mm (39.4’) x 650mm (25.6’)
Blackened Copper mesh
- 50, 80 , 100 opi (Other opi’s available on request) 0.001’ 0.025mm / 0.002’ 0.05mm
- Standard stock sheets 505mm (19.9’) x 665mm (26.2’)
- Extra-large sheets can be supplied up to 2000mm (78.7’) x 1100mm (43.3’).
- The standard mesh angle is 90’ but this can be altered to the exact specification of the customer.
We can supply un-blackened mesh by the roll or we can cut down all mesh types to a final size and shape.
Alongside our Blackened mesh offerings Instrument plastics can also supply conductive Nickel polyester mesh.
Features:
- Outstanding conductivity and high light permeability
- Fine mesh prevents Moire
- High aperture ratio (Up to 82%)
- Thin, light, and flexible
- Suitable for large applications, up to 1460mm width available
- Can be supplied in sheet form or in Glass / Polycarbonate laminations
Applications:
- EMI shield for displays
- EMI shield for windows against electromagnetic waves
- EMI shield against heat radiation
Image courtesy of Health Protection Agency, Didcot
PADC (polyallyl diglycol carbonate) also known as CR39 is a thermoset resin that is commonly used as optical plastic for display applications and is also a particularly sensitive etch-track detector for personal neutron and Radon dosimetry.
Instrument Plastics CR39 is available as sheets or fabricated detector elements at high dimensional tolerance to customer specification. Our CR39 is produced at high purity and consistent quality to suit this demanding application. Also suitable for neutron detectors at accelerators, high power laser fusion etc.
Please contact Mi-Net Technology Ltd for further information. www.mi-net.co.uk
Established in 1986, Mi-Net Technology Ltd has been serving research and industry over two decades, specialising in single crystal materials and associated products. We represent a wide range of American and European manufacturers of electronic materials and equipment.
A fully laminated anti-glare touch screen consists of a polycarbonate screen with a strengthened glass front which provides scratch resistance while the functionality of the touch screen is not impacted. At Instrument plastics we can provide laminated anti-glare screens with drastically increased integral strength and unimpaired optical clarity. Each laminated touch screen is hand assembled in clean room conditions. This is to ensure consistent high quality due to the demanding applications for which the shielded touch screens may be used.
Rugged Displays
Overall with added durability and impact resistance our shielded touch screens can be used in a variety of military, aviation, medical and industrial applications.
At instrument plastics all major touch screens can be laminated, this includes –
- 4 wire resistive
- 7/8 wire resistive
- 5/6 wire resistive
- Surface acoustic wave
- Infrared
- Infrared shadow
- Surface Capacitive
- Projective Capacitive
We are also happy to advise customers on what Touch screen would best suit there requirements due to the numerous types of touch screen available.
Instrument plastics can also incorporate into touch screens -
- EMI Shielding
- Colour /tinted windows
- Privacy windows
- Circular Polarisation for improved sunlight readability.
- Printing on the glass
- Gaskets
- Transparent heater
- Chemically strengthened laminated glass
Other applications
- Anti-vandal touch screens
- Polycarbonate toughened screens for medical and food processing manufacturers.
- Bullet resistance lamination
Overall Instrument plastics can supply touch screens for a variety of applications where durability and wide ranging temperature stability are paramount.
Instrument Plastics designs and manufactures ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) transparent glass heated screens and laminations. Specifically designed for EMI and LCD/TFT display protection for use in extreme environments ensuring optimum use in changing conditions.
Providing a fast and uniform temperature control our ITO heated screens may be constructed as single or multi-layer laminations to protect against misting, frosting and fogging of windows, including advanced RFI designs and graphical artwork to provide custom solutions.
Customer Designs
Heated screens may form part of complex LCD assembly stacks with inclusion of Touch Screens, TFT LCDs and RFI shielding meshes, customer specific gaskets and environmental seals. Instrument plastics designs and manufactures' at its UK facility bespoke solutions from low volume evaluations samples to large scale production requirements without tooling or additional engineering charges. Consult Instrument Plastics to discuss your bespoke design requirements.
Instrument Plastics can assist in sourcing, cutting and die cutting adhesive gasket sheets into bespoke sizes.
With our range of X/Y plotting machines we can produce a limited number of parts without the need for tooling (Only a DXF/ CAD file is required). These machines also automatically nest the shapes on the material to be cut ensuring minimal wastage.
This option is particularly suited to thinner materials, the plotter works by using a blade (or other tools) fixed into a head to cut material which is held down onto a bed by a vacuum. The maximum working area of our machines is 1600mm x 2000mm.
Overall this process is ideal for small production runs and allows the end user to have prototypes produced in a far shorter time window.
Features of Computer aided Gasket cutting
- Rapid prototyping
- Small batch runs
Benefits of Computer aided Gasket cutting
- Reduces development timescales
- Lowers R&D costs
- Can directly use DXF / CAD file from end customer
As mentioned above we still continue to use traditional die cutting with higher volume orders or to cut thicker adhesive gaskets that cannot be cut on our plotting equipment.