🧪 What PVC Is Used for ID Cards? | NDAS Phils Inc Guide

Discover types of PVC used in ID cards—standard, composite, overlays, smart—plus how NDAS Phils Inc supports every format with printers, consumables, and services.

In the world of identity management, access control, and secure credentialing, PVC ID cards are the gold standard. But not all PVC cards are created equal. From standard CR80 cards to composite blends and eco-friendly alternatives, the type of PVC used can dramatically affect print quality, durability, and compatibility with card printers.

This article explores the different types of PVC used in ID cards, their applications, and why NDAS Phils. Inc. is the leading provider of card printing solutions in the Philippines.

🧠 What Is PVC and Why Is It Used for ID Cards?

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a synthetic plastic polymer known for its durability, flexibility, and affordability.

Standard PVC cards are typically rigid, measuring CR‑80 size (85.60 × 54 mm) with a thickness of 0.76 mm (about 30 mil)—same as credit card dimensions. These properties make them ideal for everyday use, printing, and encoding.

It’s the most commonly used material for ID cards due to:

• High print compatibility
• Resistance to wear and tear
• Cost-effectiveness
• Smooth surface for high-resolution printing

PVC cards are typically 30 mil thick and come in standard sizes like CR80 (credit card size) and CR100 (oversized military format).

🧾 Types of PVC Used in ID Cards

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular PVC card types:

1. 🎯 Standard PVC Cards / 100% Rigid PVC Cards – The most common type—standard for employee IDs, membership cards, and access badges. Works well with dye-sublimation (direct-to-card) printing. Cost-effective and ideal when durability isn’t a major concern

• Made of 100% PVC
• Ideal for basic photo IDs and access cards
• Compatible with most direct-to-card printers
• Lifespan: 2–3 years

2. 🔄 Composite PVC/PET Cards (PVC + Polyester) – Combine PVC with PET (polyethylene terephthalate)—typically around 60% PVC and 40% PET. More heat-resistant—suited for retransfer printing and hot laminating processes. Ideal when cards must withstand outdoor use, frequent swipes, or long-term applications.

• 60/40 blend of PVC and polyester
• More durable and heat-resistant
• Ideal for retransfer printers and laminated cards
• Lifespan: 3–5 years

3. 🌱 BioPVC Cards

• Biodegradable PVC alternative
• Same durability and print quality as standard PVC
• Environmentally friendly option

4. ♻️ Recycled PVC Cards

• Made from post-consumer recycled plastic
• Reduces environmental impact
• Suitable for standard printing applications

5. 🔁 Rewritable PVC Cards

• Thermally sensitive surface
• Can be printed, erased, and reprinted up to 500 times
• Used for temporary badges or visitor passes

6. 🧲 Magnetic Stripe PVC Cards/ Magstripe PVC Cards – Embedded with HiCo (high coercivity) or LoCo stripes—used in hotel keys, POS systems, or access control

• Contains a magnetic stripe for data encoding
• Used in banking, access control, and loyalty programs

7. 📡 Proximity and RFID PVC Cards/ Contactless / MIFARE Cards – RFID-enabled for modern access systems—printable and durable for long-term use

• Embedded with chips or antennas
• Used for contactless access and smart card applications

📐 PVC Card Sizes and Thickness

Thickness: Most ID printers support 30 mil cards, but some applications use 10–80 mil depending on durability and encoding needs.

🖨️ NDAS Phils. Inc.: The PVC Card Printing Authority in the Philippines

Based in Makati City, NDAS Phils. Inc. is the No. 1 ID card printer and biometric solutions provider in the country. Their expertise spans:

• PVC card supply (standard, composite, smart cards)
• Heidi and Dascom card printers
• Biometric and smart card integration
• Software support and system integration
• Accessories: badge reels, lanyards, holders

NDAS serves clients across Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, and nationwide.

🏆 Featured Card Printers from NDAS Phils. Inc.

🖨️ Heidi CP55D Direct-to-Card Printer

Highlights:

• Prints on standard and magnetic stripe PVC cards
• Dual-sided printing
• 300 DPI resolution
• Smart card encoding

Best For: Schools, offices, and small businesses

🖨️ Dascom DC-7600 Retransfer Printer

Highlights:

• Compatible with composite PVC cards
• 600 DPI ultra-sharp resolution
• Edge-to-edge printing
• Ideal for RFID and smart card encoding

Best For: Government IDs, healthcare, and enterprise security

🖨️ Heidi CP55S Single-Sided Printer

Highlights:

• Affordable and compact
• Prints on standard PVC cards
• Optional encoding modules

Best For: Entry-level ID card printing

🧪 PVC Compatibility with NDAS Printers

🏢 Who Trusts NDAS?

NDAS Phils. Inc. is the preferred supplier for:

• Major Banks and Government Agencies
• Major Hotel, Casino & Restaurants around Metro Manila
• Major Players in Fitness and Wellnes
• Wide Range Top Tier Companies in the Philippines
• Major HMO providers

Note: Due to confidentiality agreements and contractual obligations, we are unable to publicly disclose the names of our clients. However, NDAS Phils Inc proudly serves a diverse range of organizations across government agencies, educational institutions, financial services, healthcare providers, and major corporations throughout the Philippines. Our proven track record and continued partnerships reflect the trust placed in our PVC card solutions, ID printers, and integrated security systems.

Their solutions are deployed in Makati, Taguig, Pasay, and across the country.

🔐 Security & Software Integration

NDAS offers complete ID ecosystems:

• Secure card design software
• Biometric verification systems
• QR/barcode encoding
• Database integration

This makes NDAS ideal for organizations that prioritize data protection and operational efficiency.

💬 Customer Testimonials

“NDAS helped us upgrade our ID system with durable composite PVC cards and secure encoding. Their service was top-notch.” — IT Manager, Government Agency

“We needed eco-friendly BioPVC cards for our school IDs. NDAS delivered high-quality cards and a reliable printer.” — School Administrator

📈 SEO Benefits of Choosing NDAS

Investing in NDAS card printers and PVC cards can indirectly boost your online presence:

• Professional branding: High-quality cards reflect credibility
• Operational efficiency: Faster processing improves customer experience
• Data security: Protects sensitive information, boosting trust

These factors contribute to positive reviews, better reputation, and improved SEO rankings.

🛒 Where to Buy NDAS Card Printers and PVC Cards

Visit NDAS Phils. Inc. website https://ndasphilsinc.com/ to explore:

• PVC card types and specifications
• Printer models and consumables
• Technical support and demos
• Contact details for nationwide service

🧠 Final Verdict: Choose the Right PVC and the Right Printer with NDAS Phils. Inc.

Whether you need standard PVC cards for student IDs or composite cards for secure government credentials, NDAS Phils. Inc. has the solution. Their exclusive distribution of Heidi and Dascom printers, combined with expert support and nationwide service, makes them the top choice for card printing in the Philippines.

From eco-friendly BioPVC to high-security smart cards, NDAS helps you print with precision, reliability, and innovation.

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