Most failed laminations come down to the same few causes. If you’re getting bubbles, dust spots or lifting edges, go through this list.
Dust
- Work in a clean area: a dust-free cabinet or at least a closed room with an air purifier, and wipe down the bench before each session.
- Use an anti-static brush or ionizing blower right before you put the layers together.
- Clean the LCD/OLED and the glass with the correct cleaner and lint-free cloths, then don’t touch the surfaces.
- Gloves and a clean coat help more than you’d think.
Bubbles
- Alignment and pressure. Too little pressure in the laminator leaves air between the layers; uneven pressure leaves bubbles in a pattern.
- The bubble remover (autoclave). Most small bubbles after lamination come out in the bubble remover. Follow the time, temperature and pressure for your OCA.
- Old OCA. OCA has a shelf life and should be stored as recommended. Old or badly stored OCA causes problems that look like process faults.
- Glue residue. Any old glue left on the panel shows up as marks. Clean the panel completely.
Lifting edges and curved screens
- Curved and edge screens need the right moulds and settings. Lifting at the edges often means the mould doesn’t match or the pressure is wrong.
Polarizer
On LCDs, scratches and marks on the polarizer show after lamination too. Replace it if it’s damaged.
If you’re stuck, post your machine (REFOX owners can also ask in REFOX), the OCA you use, your settings and a photo of the defect. Settings that work for one machine and OCA don’t always transfer to another.