Metal Foil
Main Features
- Tensile Strength: 70-1200 MPa (varies by metal type)
- Elongation: 2-50% (material dependent)
- Temperature Resistance: 150-3410°C (varies by metal type)
- Electrical Conductivity: 15-100% IACS (International Annealed Copper Standard)
- Density: 2.7-19.3 g/cm³ (varies by metal type)
Description and Specifications of Metal Foil
Metal foil is a thin, flexible sheet of pure metal or an alloy. It can have a thickness between 0.0001 and 0.006 inches. It is produced using a controlled rolling and annealing process. At the beginning of the process, metal ingots or thick sheets roll several times until very thin sheets are achieved, and the structural property of the metal is also retained.
Accurate pressure, temperature, and rolling speed are necessary to achieve consistent thickness and perfect surface quality. Highly advanced rolling mills ensure uniformity throughout the foil, resulting in a lightweight and resilient material that maintains the intrinsic properties of base metal.
It is the basis for manufacturing flexible electronic devices. It provides structural stability and efficient electrical conductivity while shielding against moisture and oxygen—qualities that make it indispensable in applications like organic photovoltaics, where conductivity and environmental protection are vital.
Types
Metal Strips
These strips are 150 mm wide and have thicknesses ranging from 0.01 mm to 0.25 mm. These strips are available in stainless steel, mild steel, and brass. Some products also feature a 0.06 mm self-adhesive film and are packaged in cardboard boxes or wound around a cardboard core for easy handling.
Metal Foils
These components also measure 150 mm in width but have thicknesses from 0.025 mm to 1.00 mm. The base metal used determines the specifications of metal foils.
Features of Metal Foils
Material Composition and Customization: Metal foil is made from metals like aluminum, copper, and tungsten and can be engineered through alloying and specialized treatments to enhance properties such as corrosion resistance and electrical characteristics.
Improved Durability and Mechanical Properties: The foil’s mechanical structure is very strong. It extends the lifespan of flexible electronic devices and, when used with polymers, improves resilience in dynamic environments.
Thermal and Electrical Conductivity: It conducts heat and electricity well. It is essential for thermal management and electrical applications. Its high surface area-to-volume ratio helps with heat distribution and current flow.
Processing Flexibility: Metal is very easy to process and can be molded into different patterns. This allows for the efficient creation of intricate circuits on flexible substrates, which is crucial for advanced electronic designs.
Environmental Protection: It blocks moisture, light, gases, and other environmental factors, significantly enhancing the longevity of devices and packaging.
Superior Formability: It is malleable and ductile, and it can be shaped into complex geometries. This makes it ideal for intricate designs and applications that require tight wrapping.
Recyclability and Sustainability: Metal foil is fully recyclable and does not lose quality during recycling, supporting sustainable manufacturing practices and eco-friendly choices.
Surface Finish Variety: The metal foil can be easily customized according to the user’s requirements and choice and comes in different surface finishes, such as reflective and matte.
Applications of Metal Foil
Metal foils have many applications across various sectors. It is used in packaging, construction, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors. This foil is also used in food packaging, pharmaceutical blister packs, and beverage containers. In construction, it is used in insulation systems and vapor barriers. The automotive and aerospace industries utilize metal foils for heat shields and thermal management systems. It is also used in solar panels, fuel cells, and energy storage solutions. Metal foil is important in the electronics and renewable energy sectors. In electronics, it serves as electrodes in organic photovoltaic cells, efficiently collecting and transporting electrical charges from sunlight. It also enhances flexible quantum dot displays by providing necessary electrical conductivity while maintaining device flexibility. It is vital in manufacturing circuit boards, capacitors, and flexible printed circuits, contributing to modern electronic devices’ overall efficiency and functionality.
How to Use Metal Foil?
- Store in a clean and dry place at room temperature (20-25°C), away from chemicals, and protect from physical damage.
- Use clean gloves to prevent contamination and appropriate tools for cutting to avoid creasing or tearing.
- Ensure the cleanliness of the work surface, use proper unrolling techniques, and maintain tension.
- Use the right forming tools, dies, and joining techniques, such as welding or adhesive bonding.
- Follow recommended heating guidelines for thermal applications.
Safety Guidelines
- Wear cut-resistant gloves, safety glasses, respiratory protection, and appropriate clothing.
- Use proper techniques for heavy rolls and maintain clean, ventilated work areas.
- Utilise suitable cutting tools, install sufficient lighting and keep first aid supplies and eye wash stations accessible.
- Ensure fire extinguishers are available, keep emergency contacts nearby, and document incidents or injuries.
- Follow disposal and recycling procedures, minimize waste, adhere to local regulations, and store chemicals safely.
- Regularly assess air quality in processing areas.
Why Us?
At Techinstro, our motto is “Excellence in Every Detail.” Our team of skilled professionals with over a decade of experience serves the chemical industry with various products and services. We manufacture and supply industrial equipment, materials, and research and development, working with clients in India and abroad. We are committed to providing high quality Metal Foams at suitable prices. We offer bulk solutions as well as customized solutions. We provide guidance and complete support to our clients. Contact us today for great prices and high quality products.