Looking for a PVC label? PVC labels were widely used in the industry for many years but are now being replaced by Lexan (polycarbonate) labels. PVC stiffens over time, has low chemical resistance and releases chlorine gas under flame. Bora Ajans recommends polycarbonate (Lexan) labels instead of PVC for industrial applications. The full technical comparison is below.
What Is a Lexan Label? Industrial Definition of Polycarbonate Labels
A Lexan label is a high-durability industrial graphic overlay produced on polycarbonate (PC) film with special UV inks or screen printing using reverse-print technology. The name "Lexan" comes from SABIC's Lexan® polycarbonate film and has become the generic name for polycarbonate labels in the industry. Bora Ajans has been producing Lexan labels since 1983 in Istanbul Dudullu OSB.
In reverse-print technology, ink is applied to the rear face of the film and is read through the transparent front. This protects the print from mechanical wear, solvents and daily handling. It is the longest-lasting label solution for surfaces exposed to friction such as control panels and machine front plates.
Technical Advantages of Lexan Labels
Reverse Print: Print Surface Is Protected, Colour Does Not Fade
In conventional surface printing, ink is exposed and fades and scratches over time. In a Lexan label the print is on the rear; the outward face is just transparent polycarbonate film. This isolates the print from detergent, oil, thinner and mechanical wear. Even after 10+ years of factory use it retains its original appearance.
High Heat and Chemical Resistance
Polycarbonate retains its mechanical properties between -40°C and +130°C. This wide range covers extreme-condition applications such as oven control panels, engine-bay labels and cold-storage equipment where polyethylene (PE) or PVC alternatives fall short. Chlorine-free polycarbonate also slows flame propagation, an advantage for industrial safety standards.
LED and Backlight Compatibility
Prints on transparent or frosted (matte) polycarbonate film provide homogeneous light transmission for LED applications. It is the only material group preferred for membrane-keyboard and backlit control-panel production. Light transmittance can be tuned by design with film thicknesses from 0.125 mm to 0.5 mm.
Technical Specification Table
Lexan Label vs Polyester Label — Which Is Right?
The most common question in industrial label selection is the difference between Lexan (polycarbonate) and polyester (PET). Both are plastic films, but their technical properties point to different application scenarios.
PVC Label vs Lexan Label — Why PVC Should Be Avoided
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) labels are widespread because of their low cost, but they show serious limitations in industrial applications that require heat and chemical resistance. PVC stiffens and becomes brittle over time, especially in cold environments. The print is on the surface, so it has low resistance to detergents and solvents. It releases chlorine gas under flame, creating issues against industrial safety standards. Lexan label (polycarbonate) is chlorine-free, retains flexibility even at -40°C, and its reverse-print technology fully protects the print.
Industrial Use Cases of Lexan Labels
Lexan label is the first choice for any application that is exposed directly to abrasion or that requires long life:
- Machine control-panel front plates: CNC machines, compressors, pumps and automation system front faces. Key cut-outs, windows and LED indicators are formed by cutting the polycarbonate film.
- Home-appliance control surfaces: washing-machine, refrigerator and oven surface graphics. Superior resistance to humidity, detergents and mechanical wear.
- Medical device labels: resistant to sterilising chemicals, alcohol and chlorhexidine; disinfection-friendly surface.
- In-vehicle control panels: automobiles, construction machinery and on-board consoles. Stable against high temperature differences and UV radiation.
- Energy and electrical sector: graphic overlays for energy meters, distribution panels and electrical equipment. UL/CSA standards can be met.
- Membrane keypad: a touch-sensitive PC film with conductive printing, integrated with membrane keyboards and touch panels.
Lexan Label Production Process — How It Is Done at Bora Ajans
Bora Ajans follows these steps in Lexan label production: (1) the design file (AI, CDR or PDF) is taken in for technical review. (2) Colour and material selection is determined together with the customer. (3) Colour separation is done for screen printing; for UV digital printing the file is sent directly to the machine. (4) Print is applied to the rear face of the transparent polycarbonate film. (5) An opaque white or black coating is applied to the rear (to mask the background). (6) Adhesive (optional) and a protective coating are applied. (7) Shape cutting is performed by CNC or plotter. (8) Quality control and packaging.
International Terminology — How Lexan Labels Are Known Worldwide
Lexan labels are recognised by different names in different markets: graphic overlay (USA, UK), front panel label, polycarbonate label, Polycarbonat-Etikett or PC-Folie (Germany/Austria), étiquette polycarbonate (France). Bora Ajans exports under DDU conditions to Germany, Austria, Switzerland and France using these international terms.