PC film gauge for a formed panel must be selected from draw depth, optical-zone location, trimming and assembly clearance. A thicker blank may increase stiffness and forming force; a thinner blank may lose thickness in stretched areas.
An engineering plastic film manufacturer should receive the drawing, forming method, viewing area, printed layers and tolerance stack. Flat-film optical results do not describe the finished shape.
Map Strain across the Part
Identify deep corners, tight radii, holes and cosmetic zones. Measure thickness after forming at these locations and mark machine direction. If printing is used, include registration and ink elongation.
Check Optical Quality after Forming
Inspect haze, distortion, whitening and surface marks under the real backlight and viewing angle. Keep tool temperature, blank temperature, draw speed and cooling constant when comparing gauges.
Confirm Assembly Fit
Fit minimum, target and maximum gauges into the housing. Check adhesive gap, clips, screws and sealing pressure. Send Dafu the drawing, gauge window, process settings and failed parts.