VinylEfx® Withstands Test Under Fire

An independent laboratory has tested and evaluated RTape’s VinylEfx® films for their surface burning characteristics. These tests were conducted according to the guidelines of the American Society for Testing and Materials’ ASTM E-84, which measure flame spread and the smoke index.

The ASTM E-84 testing procedure is used widely in the building industry in comparative ratings of materials used on ceilings and walls. The ASTM E-84 procedure is equivalent to those tests conducted according to Underwriters Laboratories UL 723; and ANSI/NFPA No 255 (ANSI stands for the American National Standards Institute; NFPA is the National Fire Protection Association).

ASTM testing is conducted inside a fire tunnel. Samples are subjected to an ignition source for seven seconds. The duration for the entire procedure is ten minutes. During this time, the flame must not spread beyond 24” for a satisfactory rating.

Results from the ASTM tests are classified in Class A, B or C categories, Class A being the most favorable rating. To achieve a Class A rating Class materials must have a Flame Spread Index between 1-25, and a Smoke Developed Index less than or equal to 450.

In evaluating the burning characteristics of RTape’s VinylEfx® films, samples of the metalized film were applied to gypsum board.  Tests of the film resulted in a Flame Spread Index rating of 20 and Smoke Developed Index rating of 25, placing VinylEfx® in the Class A category. Based on these results VinylEfx® films satisfy the requirements of the 2009 International Building Code® and the NFPA 5000 interior wall and ceiling covering standards. VinylEfx® films also meet the standards of UL94 V0, requiring materials to be self-extinguishing within 10 seconds of ignition.

Slides of VinylEfx films used for store graphics.

NEW INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS.  Five new videos have been added to RTape’s  YouTube channel. The following is a description of the new videos:

Squeegee Technique. Nothing is more basic in vinyl application than the squeegee. But some squeegees work better than others. And there are right ways and wrong ways to use this simple tool. This video clip reviews squeegee selection, squeegee care and squeegee technique. Click here to view the Squeegee Technique video.

Wet Applications. Dry applications are typically recommended for most vinyl applications. For those exceptions to the rule, this instructional video explains the right way to perform a wet application. Click here to view the Wet Applications video.

Introducing AT65. Installing multiple color overlays with a paper application tape is not much easier than driving in the dark without your headlights. For these challenging applications, RTape developed its AT65, the universal high tack film. This video clip explains the features and benefits of this remarkable new film application tape. Click here to view the Introducing AT65 video.

Application of Window Graphics. Installing vinyl graphics on glass can be challenging, because the adhesive aggressively grabs onto this high energy surface. Repositioning graphics on window is generally difficult, if not impossible. This instructional video explains how to dry apply window graphics right the first time. It also describes the necessary steps required for surface preparation. Click here to view the Application of Window Graphics video.

Transferring Frosted Window Graphics Films.  Because frosted window films are highly textured, transferring cut vinyl graphics can be problematic. This video provides direction in selection of the right application tape and how to apply these films quickly, easily and without problems. Click here to view the Transferring Frosted Window Graphics Films video.

© 2013 Jim Hingst