Security ID Cards Supplier

When you look at your driver’s license or credit card, you may think it’s made of just a single piece of plastic. However, these cards are often comprised of multiple layers of very thin plastic film that are bound together to create a single card. This is where a security ID cards supplier comes into play.

If you’re looking for a security ID card manufacturer for your corporation or bulk card needs, here’s a look at some of the most common film materials used in this industry. 

What are Security ID Cards? 

Security ID cards may include anything from government issued IDs to credit cards to badge style cards issued by employers or schools. Many companies now issue security ID cards not only to control who has access to physical spaces, but also who can access online networks or digital files. These cards can be printed with an array of information, including names, dates, photos, and even barcodes or QR codes to automatically give users access to secure areas or files. 

Because of all these benefits, security ID cards are a daily resource that many people, businesses, and government agencies rely on heavily. This is why the protective materials used in the production of these cards are so important. The layers of plastic film used need to come together to create long-lasting and durable ID cards. So only quality plastics should be selected within this industry. 

Types of Plastic Films Used in Security ID cards 

When selecting materials for plastic ID cards for corporations, it helps to understand the types of plastic films that are generally used in the production of secure identification cards. The exact materials you choose may depend on what type of ID or card you’re producing. For example, plastic ID cards for corporations and companies may differ from neck lanyards used for special events. Three of the most popular materials for security ID cards include polycarbonate, PET, and PVC. Here’s a rundown of each option and their benefits and applications. 

Polycarbonate is one of the most commonly used materials in the security ID card industry. Often sold under the brand name LEXAN™, from SABIC™,  this type of plastic film can be used for both the core of the card and the overlay material. There are various grades available, including opaque, transparent, co-extruded film, flexible hardcoated film, and those that can be marked with laser elements. Polycarbonate for ID cards also offers tons of practical benefits, including excellent durability and resistance to chemicals, abrasion, and tampering. 

PET, or polyester films, are also commonly used in the production of plastic ID cards for corporations. Companies that produce security ID cards often choose them because of their excellent quality and handling properties. They’re also able to effectively adhere to most industrial coatings, which allows them to work with various solvents and inks. There are a couple different grades available to suit various needs. Your EID supplier may offer this material with high opacity and/or a transparent version with a pearlescent appearance. You can also get them with both coated and uncoated overlays to suit various applications. 

The third material that is commonly offered by a security ID cards supplier is PVC. This type of film is often utilized in the production of bank cards and similar applications. These are often single-layer cards. So PVC is generally preferred because it is available with both high and low Vicat properties. So these cards don’t have a specific melting point and can simply be softened at specific temperatures. In addition, PVC films can be printed with infrared ink, which makes them difficult to duplicate for optimal financial security.

Durability, Composition, and Attributes of Secure Identification Cards 

When choosing materials and a secure ID card supplier, it’s important to understand the qualities and attributes that will be most beneficial to your operations. These vary by company. But most often, corporations need materials that are durable, so they can stand up against abrasion, impact, and daily wear and tear. 

All the materials described above fit these qualities, but in different ways. For example, polycarbonate may be preferred in instances where impact strength is needed, while PET is often useful in industrial applications due to its ability to adhere to various coatings. 

To choose the materials and qualities that best suit your needs, it’s important to have a security ID cards supplier who can walk you through the options and provide quality materials. PolymerFilms specializes in providing the best quality of product for plastic ID cards for corporations and companies of all sizes. And we have the knowledge and experience in the security ID cards industry to help you find the best materials and customization options to suit your corporation’s specific applications. 

We offer a wide array of grades, colors, finishes, and textures in all of these materials. And our local facilities spread throughout North America provide fast quotes and turnaround times. You can also rely on our knowledgeable team members to provide customized service and guidance, ensuring you get the materials and value added services to take your projects to the next level. Visit our website to find your local facility and get started with your next security ID card production project.