eurolaser x 3M: solutions for self-adhesive materials
3M Deutschland GmbH, Germany
As a research-driven multi-technology company, 3M manufactures thousands of innovative products for a wide range of markets. A particular strength lies in the diverse and often combined use of its 49 proprietary technology platforms, which continuously generate new application solutions for customers.
Further information on the collaboration with eurolaser
eurolaser has tested the following 3M materials on the laser cutting machines:
Laser test: 3M™ VHB™ – transparent
Laser cutting of transparent high-performance adhesive tapes
Material
The transparent 3M™ VHB™ adhesive tapes are high-performance acrylic foam tapes with extremely high adhesive strength. They are ideally suited for permanent bonding of glass, transparent plastics (e.g. acrylic, polycarbonate) and smooth metal surfaces. Typical areas of application include signmaking, equipment manufacturing, electronics and decorative design applications where invisible, clean bonding solutions are required. Their viscoelastic properties enable reliable stress absorption and ensure long-lasting stability. The following materials were included in the laser test:
- 3M™ VHB™ 4905
- 3M™ VHB™ 4910
- 3M™ VHB™ 4915
- 3M™ VHB™ 4918
Test setup
The test was carried out on a eurolaser M-800 laser cutting machine with a 100 W CO₂ laser. The objective was a narrow, precise cut without scorch marks or adhesive residues. The contactless processing was intended to enable easy part removal and the cutting of the finest contours – ideal for industrial bonding applications with the highest requirements.
Result
The 3M™ VHB™ adhesive tapes proved excellently suitable for laser cutting. The CO₂ laser produced clean, scorch-free cut edges – without adhesive residues on the table. The filigree level of detail was just as impressive as the ease of handling of the cut parts afterwards. Laser technology is ideal for the precise processing of these high-performance tapes.
Advantages
Scorch-free cutting without adhesive residues
Precise contours even for intricate shapes
No tool wear, no cleaning required
Easy removal of the cut parts
Maximum process reliability thanks to contactless processing
Laser test certificates
excellently suitable
Laser test: 3M™ VHB™ – powder coated surfaces
Laser cutting of adhesive tapes for coated surfaces
Material
The 3M™ VHB™ adhesive tapes in this series were specifically developed for the permanent bonding of powder-coated, painted and difficult-to-bond surfaces. They adhere reliably to metals, plastics and coated materials. The black acrylic foam structure is viscoelastic, compensates for stress and is suitable for applications in the construction, automotive, equipment manufacturing and electronics industries – for both indoor and outdoor use. The following adhesive tapes were tested:
- 3M™ VHB™ 5915
- 3M™ VHB™ 5925
- 3M™ VHB™ 5952
- 3M™ VHB™ 5962
Test setup
Testing was carried out on a eurolaser M-800 laser cutting machine with a 100 W CO₂ laser. The objective was scorch-free cutting without adhesive residues, with clean cut edges and easy removal of the cut parts. The filigree level of detail was assessed as well as residue-free processing on the cutting table – an important prerequisite for industrial downstream processing.
Result
The VHB™ adhesive tapes for powder coating applications proved excellently suitable for laser cutting. The cut edges remained clean, without scorch marks or residues. The contactless process prevents adhesion and enables precise, detailed cuts – ideal for industrial applications with high quality standards.
Advantages
No adhesive residues thanks to contactless cutting
Clean, scorch-free cut edges
Maximum precision for intricate details
Ideal for coated and difficult-to-bond materials
Easy removal of the cut parts – no sticking
Laser test certificates
Laser test: 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap Film Series 480
Laser cutting of PVC-free digital printing film with protective laminate
Material
The 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap Film Series 480 is a PVC-free premium film for long-term applications on vehicles, boats and textured surfaces. It is highly flexible, dimensionally stable under heat and easy to remove. In combination with the protective laminates, it offers ideal printing and processing properties – suitable for UV, solvent and latex printing systems.
- 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap Film SV480mC with 3M™ Envision™ Gloss Wrap Overlaminate 8548G
- 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap Film SV480mC with 3M™ Envision™ Matt Wrap Overlaminate 8550M
- 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap Film LX480mC with 3M™ Envision™ Gloss Wrap Overlaminate 8548G
- 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap Film LX480mC with 3M™ Envision™ Matt Wrap Overlaminate 8550M
Test setup
The laser test was carried out on a eurolaser M-800 laser cutting machine with a 100 W CO₂ laser. The objective was clean, precise cutting without post-processing, no adhesive residues and no tool changes. Printed areas were also cut accurately without damaging the print image.
Result
The films were cut smoothly and cleanly. No scorch marks or adhesive residues occurred. Even complex shapes were produced with precision. Ideal for laser processing.
Advantages
Clean, residue-free cut edges
No tool wear
Maximum contour accuracy
PVC-free and environmentally friendly
Easy removal after cutting
Laser test certificates
Laser Test: 3M™ Envision™ Print Film Series 48
Laser cutting of PVC-free films for medium-term applications
Material
The tested 3M™ Envision™ print films with protective laminates are PVC-free films designed for medium-term applications. They are dimensionally stable, weather-resistant, easy to process and removable without residue. Suitable for flat to slightly curved surfaces such as vehicles, glass surfaces, doors or signs.
- 3M™ Envision™ Print Film 48C-20R and 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap Film 48-20R with 3M™ Envision™ Gloss Overlaminate 8048G
- 3M™ Envision™ Print Film 48C-20R and 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap Film 48-20R with 3M™ Envision™ Matt Overlaminate 8050M
- 3M™ Envision™ Print Film 48C-20 and 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap Film 48-20 with 3M™ Envision™ Gloss Overlaminate 8048G
- 3M™ Envision™ Print Film 48C-20 and 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap Film 48-20 with 3M™ Envision™ Matt Overlaminate 8050M
Test setup
The laser test was carried out on a eurolaser M-800 equipped with a 100 W CO₂ laser. The evaluation focused on precise cutting without post-processing, no adhesion of film residues, consistent cutting quality without tool wear, and clean processing of printed areas without affecting the print image or laminate surface.
Result
The tested print films proved excellently suitable for laser cutting. All edges were clear and clean, even with intricate contours. The print and laminate surface remained completely undamaged. The films are therefore excellently suitable for industrial laser cutting applications.
Advantages
Smooth, clean cut edges without post-processing
Print and laminate protection remain fully intact
No adhesive residues, no tool wear
Complete design freedom without tooling costs
Ideal for PVC-free, medium-term graphic applications