These questions are some of the more recently asked questions. Please email us with any that are not listed.

What are shim lines?Diffraction (holographic) patterns are produced by firstly creating a "shim". A shim is a plate that has the pattern etched into its surface by a series of lasers. It is etched to a 1000th of a micron.
The shim is then used to emboss a pattern into a film which is then metallized. When the film is embossed a line will be created at the edge of the plate. This is a shim line.

What are Pattern repeat marks?Diffraction (holographic) patterns are produced by firstly creating a "shim". The original master is usually made 50mm x 300mm. The master is made so small due to the amount of time and energy it takes for the laser to etch the pattern. To etch 50mm x 300mm could take over 24 hours in a sealed suspended room. Once the master has been made it is possible to easily make duplicates. These are then laid out to form the bigger shim. Where these duplicates overlap it is often possible to see a pattern repeat mark.

Why do some batches vary? Foil is made in batches, and although only minor, there is some variation within these batches. Each manufacturer has tolerance that they aim to meet. The foil is tested prior to despatch to ensure it meets these tolerances. Difficulties can come when a foil is being used on the edge of its working parameter. Pne bacth may worknwhilst another may not. This can seem like a faulty batch, but is more likely due to a wrong foil being used. The easiest solution is chage to a more suitable foil.

Can foil be used for transmitting electronic signals ?No, the aluminium within foil is too thin to effectively transmit a signal.