The Guide to Using OCA Films to Create Stunning Displays
Optically Clear Adhesive (OCA) films create a glowing and brilliant picture for touch screens on mobile smart devices and interactive displays.
OCA films assist mobile smart devices in projecting a clear, crisp and detailed image for users. Without high-quality film screens, a user’s interaction with a device would be nothing like the clear picture we have grown accustomed to.
This post covers everything you need to know about the following:
- An overview of OCA films and how they play a vital role in using interactive displays.
- The process of bonding OCA films to a mobile device (or other devices).
- Where and why the films are used most often.
What Are OCA Films?
Optically clear adhesives consist of thin film layers used to bind together other materials, such as acrylics, glass, plastic, and polycarbonates. It is one of the most commonly used materials in building mobile phone screens, as well as tablets and display screens.
Manufacturing display screens is an extremely precise process that requires detailed techniques to build a touch screen that is perfectly aligned and free of air bubbles.
OCA films act as transparent adhesive screens to reveal clarity and keep the display screens performing at a high quality. The manufacturing of OCA film uses similar materials but in a different layering process depending on the manufacturing company.
Common characteristics of OCA films include:
- Films are 99% transmissible, so light can easily pass through them.
- They are long-lasting and durable, even with daily use.
- They have a high resistance to UV rays and defects from weather and the sun.
- Their appearance is transparent and looks similar to glass.
Such adhesives are commonly applied during the installation process of any electronic device displaying an LCD screen that people interact with or watch. OCA’s are notably thin and light weight, making them perfect for portable devices like phones, tablets and larger displays.
OCA displays don’t always create a touch panel, but we are very familiar with that technology thanks to the worldwide popularity of smartphones. In those instances, the glass screen on top of the OCA film use electricity to track where a person’s fingers are, and correlate that touch with a command such as typing a text or playing a game. We’re also used to touch screens on machines like ATM cash withdrawal machines, certain video gaming consoles, and more.
Using unique materials such as glass, touch sensors, liquid crystals, polarizers, adhesives, and a cover, the LCD of a device can function effectively while losing little contrast and brightness. Regardless of whether or not there is a touch screen component, OCA films help create the vivid displays we love on all types of display screens.
The Adhesive Optical Bonding Process
Constructing and developing mobile device screens involves the process of joining layers together using as little adhesive glue as possible to create a thin display.
When layered between the films and pressed together, the adhesive forces pressure from the assembly, causing air to escape quickly. The implementation of a roller tool or bonding vacuum during the process removes air between the layers and glues.
Display manufacturing varies from company to company. However, the end goal for all installation processes is to produce a transparent touch screen providing a vivid display on the client’s device.
Where Are Oca Films Installed?
OCA films are typically included on any device that projects a touch-screen feature, also known as LCDs. Smartphones, tablets, and touch-screen computers are the most common uses for advanced adhesive film applications.
Different devices use different amounts of adhesives to cut UV rays, making the brightness and contrast more visible and suitable for the human eye.
Clear bonding adhesives are crucial components of any electronic display featuring a touch panel that follows finger movements to control it. We can see these applicants applied to other electronic equipment like GPS screens in vehicles and avionics.
Why Is Optically Clear Adhesive Film Used?
The film used is what gives a mobile device user that smooth touch and fast reacting ping of what they want the device to do.
Creating a flat and even surface on the device is one of the targeted goals for adhesive film brands. The smoother a film feels the more users will want to use it.
Optically clear adhesive films provide a brighter screen and will protect the screens of mobile devices from incurring damage during usage. The material used for OCA films has elastic characteristics while maintaining durable core elements to protect the underlying screen.
What Does Optically Clear Mean?
Optically clear means that we can view a screen of any device without any visual issues. Our vision is free of product defects or obstructions limiting the clarity of what we want to see through the screen.
The adhesives applied between films helps light refract through the layers while minimizing any transmittance problems. Reducing the problems of light transmittance will ultimately meet the demands of users and keep them using the products longer.
What Are the Problems that Occur with OCAs?
The most common problem relating to OCAs is defects between the layers. If the adhesive is improperly applied, it can cause air bubbles, known as outgassing.
If you rely on professionals for guidance when applying OCA films, you are much less likely to experience bubbling, smudges or issues with too much glue.
Does OCA Improve the Quality of my Electronic Display?
Absolutely! As explained above, the adhesive glues are clear and bound between transparent films to provide a stunning display on electronic devices. OCA films are the workhorse that help make display screens vivid, interactive and durable.
Should You Consider OCA Films for Your Devices’ Displays?
As you can see, installing the proper OCA film on your device will provide you with the most transparent image possible. Advanced technology like laptops, smartphones, tablets, and more deserve modern appearances on a display.
OCAs are a key component in advanced displays, touchscreens, and more. Contact the Lamart team for your custom coating needs.
