By Jim Hingst @hingst_jim
Overlaminating
films can beautify and protect graphics. Here are some suggestions regarding
the types of films to use for different applications.
Wall Graphics
For
wall graphics applications, a 3 mil matte finish calendered vinyl overlaminate provides
protection from dirty hands and eliminates the glare from overhead lighting.
Tradeshow
and Point-Of-Purchase Graphics
To
provide abrasion and moisture protection for expensive tradeshow graphics,
photographic prints and P.O.P. transparencies and graphics, polycarbonate overlaminates are a good choice.
The
velvet texture of polycarbonate
overlaminates, such as RTape’s Eclypse brand, eliminates glare from overhead
lights. These films also protect prints from the degrading effects of UV light,
thereby extending the service life of photographs and digital prints.
Fleet Graphics
For vehicle graphics, you should typically select a 2 mil cast vinyl overlaminate,
especially if a cast vinyl film is used for the print. The rule of thumb is
that if you should always use a cast vinyl overlaminate with a cast vinyl
graphic. To protect a calendared vinyl you can use either a cast or calendared
overlaminate.
For
vehicle wrap projects, a key consideration is the conformability of the film and
its compatibility with the other components of the graphic. Tanker graphics are
an exception. If the tanker is hauling harsh chemicals, a polyester
overlaminate might be the best choice.
Window Graphics
While
matte or luster finishes are preferred for interior walls, gloss overlaminates
make sense for window graphics. A 2 mil film with UV inhibitors provides
additional protection from the bleaching effects of sunlight. A slick gloss
finish is recommended because dirt is less likely to collect on the surface of
the graphic.
For
perforated window graphics films, some vinyl companies recommend or require an
overlaminate. Polyester overlaminates are a good choice for this and other flat
applications.
Floor
Graphics
For
floor graphics you should specify a thicker 5 mil vinyl overlaminate or a 3 mil
polycarbonate overlaminate to provide protection from grinding wear of foot
traffic. The overlaminate must also feature a slip-resistant texture.
Overlaminating Film Articles
Vinyl Application 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 to Link
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 to Link
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 to Link
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 to Link
3-Step Surface Prep. This instructional video describes how to properly clean the surface of a vehicle before applying pressure sensitive vinyl graphics to a trailer or doing a full wrap of a car or van. This three step surface prep involves detergent washing, solvent cleaning and a final wipe down with IPA. Click to Link
Vinyl Application Over Rivets. Applying vinyl graphics on vehicle surfaces with rivets is challenging for most sign makers. Vinyl failures to these surfaces are all too common. This video demonstrates some tips and procedures, used by professional decal installers, which will make these demanding applications easier and more trouble-free. Click to Link
Vinyl Application to Corrugations. Learn how to apply vinyl graphics to corrugations in a relaxed state. Forcing films into the valleys of corrugations puts too much mechanical stress on the film. Sooner or later, the vinyl will lift or tent in valleys. Click to Link
Applying Air Egress Vinyls. Vinyl films with air egress release liners have almost eliminated bubbles and wrinkles from applied graphics. Air egress release liners with their highly textured surface structure are problematic. Not much will stick to these liners other than the vinyl film. At RTape our best premask solution for air egress liners is a special Conform® tape called 4761RLA. Click to Link
About Jim Hingst: After fourteen years as Business Development Manager at RTape, Jim Hingst retired. He was involved in many facets of the company’s business, including marketing, sales, product development and technical service.
Hingst began his career 42 years ago in the graphic arts field creating and producing advertising and promotional materials for a large test equipment manufacturer. Working for offset printers, large format screen printers, vinyl film manufacturers, and application tape companies, his experience included estimating, production planning, purchasing and production art, as well as sales and marketing. In his capacity as a salesman, Hingst was recognized with numerous sales achievement awards.
Drawing on his experience in production and as graphics installation subcontractor, Hingst provided the industry with practical advice, publishing more than 150 articles for publications, such as Signs Canada, SignCraft, Signs of the Times, Screen Printing, Sign and Digital Graphics and Sign Builder Illustrated. He also posted more than 325 stories on his blog (hingstssignpost.blogspot.com). In 2007 Hingst’s book, Vinyl Sign Techniques, was published. Vinyl Sign Techniques is available at sign supply distributors and at Amazon.
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