Optical bonding is a process that adheres two components, usually a cover glass (or touch screen) and a display, with an optical adhesive. This bonding method helps to increase the strength and durability of the materials. By creating a seal between the two components, optical bonding shields them from environmental factors such as dust, dirt, and moisture.

There are two traditional optical bonding methods: wet and dry.

Wet Optical Bonding

Wet optical bonding is completed using a transparent, liquid adhesive that takes the LCD panels and adheres them to the custom touchscreen device. UV Radiation is then used to solidify the process and give you a strong optical bond. There are downsides to this method, however, such as bubbles and debris in the bond, risk of adhesive ingress into the LCD, and long-term yellowing of the adhesive. When these occur, the bond is not reworkable to the parts are scrap.

Dry Optical Bonding

Dry optical bonding is done without using UV radiation. The dry process uses a pre-cured silicone adhesive to attach the LCD panel to the touch screen using an automated process in our class 1000 clean room. The dry process eliminates all the negatives of wet bonding, making it the ideal method. In the rare case that some defect occurs, the bond is easily reworkable.

At Fortec US, our own industry-leading VacuBond® optical bonding uses a dry bonding process that allows for zero optical defect production and provides perfect material stability with no yellowing, along with a clear image and incredible durability. Our method uses pure silicone gel sheets with the bonds performed in a vacuum chamber to yield perfect results every time. 

Contact Us Today to Learn More About Our Custom Digital Screen Solutions!

As the global leader in optical bonding, Fortec US supports you in all project phases – from the construction of the metal housing and procurement of specific parts to the in-house development of controller boards and touchscreen integration. In need of a product, part, or have a project in mind? Contact us today at (631) 580-4360 or click here for more information.

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