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What Is PI Film Used For?

2025-11-08

In modern industrial manufacturing, materials must meet extreme demands—resisting heat, maintaining insulation, and remaining stable under pressure. One of the most versatile solutions developed for these purposes is PI Film, also known as Polyimide Film. This high-performance polymer material has become indispensable across industries ranging from electronics to aerospace.
At XINYUANSHUN, we produce advanced heat-resistant pi film tapes and release films that provide outstanding electrical insulation, thermal endurance, and dimensional stability. These properties make our films ideal for use in high-temperature and precision electronic applications. In this article, we explore what PI Film is, its core characteristics, major uses, and why it has become a foundational material in modern engineering.

PI Film


1. Understanding What PI Film Is

PI Film (Polyimide Film) is a thin, flexible polymer sheet made from polyimide resin—a synthetic compound formed by the polymerization of pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) and diamine (DAPE) or similar monomers. The resulting molecular structure gives the film exceptional stability under extreme conditions.

Unlike ordinary plastic films that melt or degrade under high temperatures, polyimide film maintains its physical and electrical properties even at temperatures exceeding 260°C, with short-term tolerance up to 400°C. This unique stability makes it a critical material for industries that require precision and reliability in harsh environments.

At XINYUANSHUN, our heat-resistant PI film tape is engineered for industrial-grade performance. It combines polyimide’s natural resilience with a uniform coating and smooth surface, ensuring durability, consistent thickness, and strong adhesion when used as insulation, wrapping, or masking material.

Key Advantages of PI Film:

  • Wide temperature range: Operates effectively between -269°C and +400°C.

  • Excellent dielectric strength: Prevents electrical leakage even in thin layers.

  • Outstanding chemical resistance: Unaffected by most acids, oils, and solvents.

  • Dimensional stability: Maintains form without shrinking or curling under stress.

  • Flame retardancy: Self-extinguishing and non-toxic when exposed to fire.

These exceptional qualities make PI Film one of the most reliable materials for advanced manufacturing, especially in electronics, aerospace, and new energy technologies.


2. Physical and Chemical Properties That Make PI Film Unique

The widespread use of PI Film is directly tied to its combination of thermal, electrical, and mechanical performance. No other flexible polymer offers the same balance of resistance and adaptability.

1. Thermal Stability

Polyimide’s aromatic structure provides strong resistance to thermal degradation. Unlike polyester or PVC films that soften around 120°C, PI Film maintains structural integrity up to 260°C continuously. This makes it ideal for insulation in motors, generators, and printed circuit boards (PCBs) where components heat up during operation.

2. Electrical Insulation

PI Film offers a dielectric strength of over 200 kV/mm, ensuring excellent insulation even at micro-thin thicknesses. It prevents current leakage, arcing, and electrical failure in high-voltage environments.

3. Mechanical Strength and Flexibility

Even at extreme temperatures, PI Film retains flexibility without tearing or cracking. This mechanical resilience makes it suitable for wrapping wires, forming flexible printed circuits, and protecting sensitive components during manufacturing.

4. Chemical and Radiation Resistance

PI Film resists corrosion from oils, alkalis, and organic solvents, while also maintaining stability under UV and gamma radiation. This allows it to perform reliably in outdoor or space applications where exposure to radiation is unavoidable.

PropertyTypical ValuePerformance Benefit
Thermal Endurance260°C continuous useSuitable for motors, PCB insulation
Dielectric Strength>200 kV/mmExcellent electrical insulation
Tensile Strength>150 MPaHigh mechanical durability
Density1.42 g/cm³Lightweight yet strong
Flame RetardancyUL 94 V-0Self-extinguishing safety performance

XINYUANSHUN’s PI Film products undergo rigorous testing to maintain these specifications. By controlling molecular orientation during production, we achieve consistent thickness uniformity, smooth surfaces, and superior adhesion—all critical for industrial performance.


3. Industrial Applications of PI Film

Because of its exceptional physical and chemical properties, PI Film is used in a broad range of high-performance industries. From electrical insulation to aerospace components, its versatility allows it to function in areas where ordinary materials would fail.

1. Electronics and Electrical Industry

PI Film is most commonly used in the electronics sector for its insulation and thermal properties. It serves as a base material for:

  • Flexible Printed Circuits (FPC): Provides a flexible substrate that withstands soldering temperatures without distortion.

  • Motor and Transformer Insulation: Acts as a high-dielectric barrier, maintaining safe operation in compact electric motors.

  • Lithium Battery Insulation: Prevents short circuits between conductive layers, improving battery safety.

  • PCB Masking Tape: Protects sensitive areas during soldering and reflow processes.

Our XINYUANSHUN PI film tape is specifically developed for such applications, featuring strong adhesion, high temperature tolerance, and residue-free removal—perfect for electronic manufacturing lines.

2. Aerospace and Aviation

In aerospace environments, components are exposed to extreme heat, vibration, and radiation. PI Film’s lightweight strength and temperature resilience make it ideal for:

  • Wire and cable insulation in aircraft and spacecraft.

  • Thermal barriers and coatings that protect sensitive instruments.

  • Structural reinforcement materials in composite panels and insulation blankets.

3. Automotive and Industrial Equipment

PI Film serves as thermal and electrical insulation in electric vehicles, sensors, and motors. It’s used in battery packs, control modules, and charging systems where long-term heat stability ensures reliability.

4. Solar Energy and New Energy Technology

In solar modules, PI Film is used as backsheet insulation due to its UV stability and dielectric strength. It prevents moisture and heat from damaging photovoltaic cells. In lithium batteries, it provides thermal isolation and structural reinforcement for separators and current collectors.

5. 3D Printing and Semiconductor Industry

PI Film is also used as a release film in high-temperature lamination and semiconductor processing. Its non-stick surface and smoothness make it ideal for preventing adhesion during manufacturing of chips and resin-based composites.

IndustryFunctionTypical PI Film Product
ElectronicsFlexible circuit base, PCB maskingHeat-resistant PI Film Tape
AerospaceInsulation and radiation barrierPolyimide Coated Sheet
AutomotiveEV motor and battery insulationHigh-Temperature Insulation Film
Solar / EnergyBacksheet protection, isolationUV-Stable PI Film
SemiconductorRelease and lamination layerAnti-adhesion PI Release Film

No matter the application, XINYUANSHUN’s PI Film solutions are tailored for reliability and precision in harsh industrial conditions.


4. The Role of PI Film in High-Temperature and Precision Applications

While there are many films used for insulation or protection, PI Film’s heat resistance and dimensional accuracy make it indispensable for high-temperature environments and advanced technologies.

High-Temperature Insulation and Masking

During soldering or thermal processing, temperatures can exceed 300°C. PI Film tape withstands these conditions without burning, melting, or leaving adhesive residue. It protects delicate electronic components from heat and contamination.
XINYUANSHUN’s heat-resistant PI film tape features a silicon-based adhesive that maintains bond strength while allowing clean removal—essential for precision PCB and microelectronic assembly.

Battery and Energy Storage Protection

Lithium batteries and power modules generate significant heat during charging cycles. PI Film acts as a dielectric barrier and thermal protector, preventing electrical contact between layers and improving safety.
In EV batteries, the film also enhances mechanical stability, maintaining insulation integrity under vibration or pressure.

Release and Molding Applications

In composite manufacturing and resin molding, PI Film serves as a release layer due to its non-stick surface. It prevents adhesion of resin, silicone, or epoxy to molds, ensuring smooth surfaces and reducing waste.
Our XINYUANSHUN PI Release Film Roll offers exceptional release performance and temperature tolerance, making it suitable for laminating carbon fiber, prepregs, or high-temperature coatings.

Precision Coating and Electronic Packaging

Because of its smooth and uniform surface, PI Film is used as a carrier film for coating, sputtering, and film deposition in the semiconductor and display industries. Its ability to maintain dimensional stability during these delicate processes guarantees high-quality output.

Environmental Durability

PI Film’s resistance to UV light, radiation, and humidity allows it to perform in extreme outdoor or space conditions. It retains mechanical properties even after long-term exposure, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.

Application TypePI Film FunctionXINYUANSHUN Product Advantage
PCB ManufacturingHeat masking during solderingHigh-temperature PI tape with residue-free removal
Battery SystemsThermal and dielectric insulationDurable, puncture-resistant PI film
Composite MoldingRelease and anti-adhesion layerSmooth surface, reusable film
Aerospace SystemsWeight reduction + heat protectionLightweight, stable polyimide sheet

Whether in microelectronics or industrial molding, PI Film ensures precision, protection, and performance—qualities that define every XINYUANSHUN product.


5. Future Trends and Innovations in PI Film Technology

As industries push for smaller, lighter, and more energy-efficient devices, the demand for advanced polyimide films continues to rise. New research and innovation are driving the development of films with even greater temperature stability, improved mechanical properties, and eco-friendly formulations.

1. Ultra-Thin and High-Purity Films

Emerging electronic devices, such as flexible displays and wearable sensors, require ultra-thin PI films—often below 10 microns—that retain full insulation strength. XINYUANSHUN continues to refine precision coating and stretching technologies to achieve uniform thickness and optical clarity for these new-generation applications.

2. Transparent and Colorless PI Films

Traditional PI Film has a golden-yellow hue. However, transparent or colorless versions are now in demand for foldable screens, optical lenses, and flexible circuits. By modifying polymer chains, colorless PI retains heat resistance while offering high light transmittance and UV protection.

3. Environmentally Sustainable Production

As part of our sustainability mission, XINYUANSHUN is developing solvent-free coating and recyclable PI films. These innovations minimize environmental impact during production and support global green manufacturing initiatives.

4. High-Frequency and 5G Applications

The rise of 5G communication and high-frequency electronics requires materials with low dielectric loss and high signal transmission efficiency. PI Film’s stable electrical properties make it ideal for antenna insulation and flexible printed circuits used in 5G devices.

5. Advanced Composite Laminates

Future energy systems, including next-generation EV batteries and aerospace components, will rely on PI composite laminates that combine insulation, thermal conductivity, and flame retardancy. XINYUANSHUN’s ongoing R&D in coated and laminated PI structures ensures superior performance for these demanding applications.

Innovation Focus at XINYUANSHUN:

  • Ultra-thin precision PI films for flexible electronics.

  • Transparent colorless films for optical and display applications.

  • Recyclable and eco-friendly production processes.

  • High-frequency dielectric films for 5G technology.

  • Composite PI films for aerospace and energy storage systems.

By merging innovation with manufacturing expertise, XINYUANSHUN continues to expand the potential of polyimide technology, setting new standards in heat-resistant and high-performance film production.


Conclusion

PI Film has transformed how industries approach insulation, protection, and high-temperature engineering. Its unmatched combination of thermal stability, electrical insulation, and chemical resistance makes it an irreplaceable material in modern manufacturing. From printed circuit boards and lithium batteries to aerospace equipment and solar modules, PI Film ensures safety, precision, and long-term reliability.

At XINYUANSHUN, we specialize in producing heat-resistant PI film tape and release film rolls that deliver superior consistency and performance across all industrial environments. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and customization, our products help customers achieve greater efficiency and durability in their applications.

As technology advances, PI Film will remain at the forefront of innovation—and XINYUANSHUN will continue leading the way with materials engineered for the next generation of high-performance solutions.

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