PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

GamColor® is deep-dyed polyester color that is linked
into the polyester, not surface coated. Polyester is the
most durable of the expendable color filter materials.

Polyester and polycarbonate are the two most widely used
materials for color filters. They have replaced gelatin and
acetate which were used for many years. The new materials
have been chosen because they are more durable. Of
the two, polyester is the most durable and has been selected as the base film for GamColor® filters.

The difference between deep-dyed and surface-dyed.

GamColor® is deep-dyed polyester the color is linked
molecularly into the polyester. There is a distinct advantage
to this process over surface-coated polyester. The
deep-dye process is more difficult to remove because it
disturbs the molecular structure. Once the color is placed
into the film it becomes difficult for color to evaporate
or depart from the polyester base. In contrast, surface
coated polyesters are more susceptible to fading when
exposed to heat since the coating is merely placed on
the surface and can readily evaporate.

To compete with the more durable deep-dyed polyester
(GamColor®) some manufacturers have chosen to dye in
the mass polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is much easier to
dye and takes the color more readily than polyester. Using
this process may make it easier to dye, but it also fades
faster. Polycarbonates are less durable than polyester
under high temperature conditions.

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

As the chart above shows, polyester melts at 480° F
and polycarbonate melts at approximately 380° F.
Polyester does not soften until it reaches 400° F, whereas
polycarbonate softens at about 270° F. It is not uncommon
to see temperatures of 350° F on the color media
placed in front of ellipsoidal spotlights and fresnels,
much above the softening point of polycarbonate.

Polycarbonates are easier to dye but when heat is
applied, the dyes become viscous and actually move
away from the hot center causing a more rapid fade.
Deep dyed polyester (GamColor®) resists this fading
because the dye does not migrate when the same heat
is applied.

Every GamColor® has UV inhibitors to help prolong
color life. Extensive tests and many years of experience
indicate as much as two to three times the color life
for most GamColors® when compared to competitors'
materials. GamColor® is the 'product of choice' if you
need long lasting quality.