Kapton® HN Polyimide Film
In the 1960’s Kapton® was invented by DuPont Company. Since then, polyimide film has come a long way. Today, Kapton® is used in countless applications ranging from fibre optics cables to electronic components. This film has a number of unique properties that have led to its widespread use. The film features dimensional stability, outstanding temperature resistance, and much more. Today, DuPont Company offers a number of different types of Kapton® including Kapton® HN, FN, and HPP-ST. In this article we are only concerned with Kapton® HN film.
Properties of Kapton® HN
Kapton® HN is the general purpose all-polyimide film that DuPont offers. Kapton® HN has an incredible temperature resistance. It has been successful in temperatures ranging from -452° to 752° F. This temperature range is significant considering most insulating materials don’t extend themselves more than 600° F. The applications for Kapton® HN are endless, ranging from shims to electrical insulation. This film is able to be certified to MIL-P-46112B Type 1, and its superseding specification ASTM D5213-07, Type I, Item A. According to DuPont’s Kapton® brochure, Kapton® does not melt nor burn, and has the distinguished UL-94VO rating. It is good to note that Kapton® is also featured as an astounding dielectric and is used as such in electrical insulation applications. In addition, Kapton® HN has great chemical resistance, good dimensional stability, and radiation resistance. Some typical applications that Kapton® is utilized in are:
- Etching
- Electronic Assemblies
- Mechanical Parts
- Fiber Optics
In addition to the number of Kapton® film types available, there are also many thicknesses available, ranging from extremely thin to 5 mils. While Kapton® HN is available with silicone or acrylic adhesive, silicone is the most commonly offered. There are many variations of Kapton® including: laminates, specialty types, and Kapton® tapes. The normal color of Kapton® HN is amber. Since NEDC specializes in providing high precision die cut parts, Kapton® HN is available in many different die-cut configurations while holding tight tolerances. In the correct storage conditions, and without adhesive backing, Kapton® exhibits a long shelf life in excess of 20 years. For more information on Kapton® films please contact us at sales@nedc.com.
Kapton® is a registered trademark of DuPont Company.