How to Choose the Right Fujifilm Prescale Film for Your Application

Fujifilm Prescale pressure indicating film helps visualize contact pressure in quality control and manufacturing. Choose a grade whose measurement range matches the pressure expected in your application.

What Is Fujifilm Prescale Film?

Prescale reveals pressure distribution through a red color pattern. Color density can be interpreted using the supplied calibration chart or compatible digital analysis tools. Follow the instructions for your grade and test conditions when interpreting results.

Understanding the Pressure Ranges

Select by expected contact pressure, not application name alone. The following ranges match the linked products' specifications:

• LLLW – Ultra Super Low(0.2-0.5 MPa): Included in the Combo Pack below. Confirm its measurement range in the supplied grade-specific instructions before testing.
• LLW – Super Low (0.5–2.5 MPa): Shop LLW Super Low Film.
• LW – Low (2.5–10 MPa): Shop LW Low Pressure Film.
• MS – Medium (10–50 MPa): Shop MS Medium Pressure Film.
• HS – High (50–130 MPa): Shop HS High Pressure Film.
• HHS – Super High (130–300 MPa): Shop HHS Super High Pressure Film.

Not sure which range to start with? Our Prescale Combo Pack includes LLLW, LLW, LW, and MS grades for comparison.

Mono-Sheet vs. Two-Sheet Film

Medium-pressure film is available as mono-sheet MS or two-sheet MW. The linked MS product specifies the same pressure range, performance, calibration, and price as the two-ply option, with thickness and number of plies differing. Choose the format appropriate for your measurement setup. For the linked two-sheet LLW and LW products, place the matte sides together as specified in their instructions.

How to Apply Prescale Film

1. Prepare: Select a grade for the expected pressure range. Ensure the contact surfaces are clean, dry, and free of contaminants.
2. Cut: Trim the film to fit the contact zone using sharp scissors or a cutting board.
3. Position: Place the film between the contacting surfaces. Follow the grade-specific instructions for orientation and, where applicable, pairing the two sheets.
4. Apply pressure: Follow the prescribed loading procedure and duration for your film grade and test conditions.
5. Interpret: Examine the developed color pattern and use the supplied calibration chart or compatible digital analysis tools to interpret color density.

Tips for Accurate, Documented Results

• Consult the grade-specific instructions for temperature and relative humidity requirements before testing.
• Handle the film carefully to avoid creasing or contaminating the measurement area. Follow the supplied instructions for handling and removal after exposure.
• Use a repeatable test setup. For repeated measurements, keep film grade, placement, loading procedure, environmental conditions, and analysis method consistent, and document differences between runs.
• Photograph the developed film to retain a visual record of the test. Use the prescribed analysis procedure, rather than an ordinary photograph alone, when quantitative measurements are required.
• Record the grade, loading conditions, and environmental conditions alongside the result so tests can be compared meaningfully. Label each image or scan with its test identifier and analysis date.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for storage and the timing of analysis. Retaining a film sample does not replace recording its results under the prescribed analysis conditions.

Analyzing Your Results

The Fujifilm Prescale Mobile App supports quantification of colored Prescale images. The linked product is a one-year license; a compatible iPad is required and is not included. Follow the app's instructions for image capture and analysis.

Still Not Sure? Contact us and we'll help you select a grade for your specific application.