Not all vinyl is created equal. Sign makers must carefully consider vinyl film properties to suit the job type and application. While the exclusive use of high-performance films is good practice, job cost will not always justify expensive material.
- Vinyl film manufacturers rate film durability, based on theoretical information and actual testing, under normal environmental conditions. While durability ratings are valuable guidelines, the prudent sign maker should be conservative and consider film use in less than ideal conditions. Typical ratings are from one to seven years.
- Premium vinyl films are manufactured using a casting process, in which chemicals are introduced to vinyl during the film forming stage. Cast films are more dimensionally stable than calendered films, and allow desirable thinner film thickness to be achieved.
- Calendered vinyl film is manufactured by heating vinyl, which is pressed into film. Used primarily for economy- and intermediate-grade films, calendered vinyl is a good choice for temporary applications. The forming of calendered film does not use solvents, resulting in thicker film.
- Film thickness affects the type of surface application. All film thicknesses can be effectively applied to smooth surfaces, but textured surfaces, or those with rivets and seams, require the use of thinner vinyls with higher dimensional stability. Cast vinyls are excellent for all applications, while calendered vinyl should be limited to less demanding smooth-surface work. Typical thicknesses are 2 mm for premium cast, and 3 to 4 mm for calendered vinyl films.
- Vinyl film is available in many colors and finishes. Most every finish is available in both cast and calendered films, dependent on the manufacturer. Various levels of gloss, metalized, translucent, opaque, reflective and textured vinyl are available. While color selections vary from brand to brand, some manufacturers offer standard Pantone colors, in an effort to achieve universal color matching.
评论