Self adhesive vinyl is an attractive and highly-lexible lightweight material which is widely used to create eye-catching and colourful signs and images. Self-adhesive vinyl does not shrink, rub or bond together unlike other forms of vinyl, which will often leave white marks on the surface. Self-adhering vinyl is water-resistant and able to tolerate temperatures as high as 75 degrees C, it is also safe for outdoor and indoor application, it also resists changes in colour with exposure to sunlight, moisture and normal weather conditions. It can be applied in a wide range of sizes and shapes and is ideal for any location, from shop-fronts to fleet vehicles.
There are several advantages when using self adhesive vinyl. The most obvious is that it is quick to apply and can be done in a couple of hours using a Dremel tool with an orbital sander. The adhesive is also relatively easy to remove if the need arises, this can be done simply by wiping off the excess vinyl from the back paper. It is also very durable, capable of coping well with the weight of several vehicle stickers. This vinyl has an extremely high R-value, which means that it will resist ripping or tearing for years on end. The best vinyl to use for outdoor applications would be PVC because it is strong enough to withstand being exposed to salt spray and salt fog.
The next benefit to using self adhesive vinyl is that it is cost effective and simple to install, a spray gun and a saw must be owned and used for this project. An overhead camcorder mounted on an angle is required. A heat press is an option but is only recommended for large jobs. There should be no space between the substrate and the backing, otherwise the seal may be compromised. Using a heat source such as a hair dryer or an electric heater will increase the life cycle of the htv.
The final step is installation, a piece of thin sheet metal is placed inside the substrate, then the outer backing is attached and the plasticizer is applied. Once this is done the camera can now be protected and the camera should be recharged. To test it the camera can be left in the htv for 24 hours. If the camera battery is full capacity then the htv will not accept any charge. This is because the adhesive is static charged, once the plasticizer has been applied the plasticizer will be able to withstand any further charge, therefore the htv will function properly and the image captured will be crystal clear.
Installing a self adhesive vinyl sign is a simple process but there are several guidelines that should be followed. Firstly, the correct amount of pressure must be applied on the sides to ensure that the edges adhere correctly to the substrate. Also, excess pressure should be released immediately upon releasing the squeegee handle to ensure that the vinyl does not stick to the sides of the hvd. The final step is ensuring that all the required holes have been drilled before securing the edges to the substrate. A standard air egress squeegee handle is required to apply self adhesive vinyl.
Another common application is heat transfer vinyl banners. Heat transfer is the most complicated process involving many steps and equipment, but with the help of modern equipment this process is easier than ever. Firstly, heat transfer tape is used to label the banner, then the tape is laid on the substrate using an adhesive gun. Finally, the banner must be inserted into an appropriate template created using a heat gun and the edges must be folded over to seal the entire banner.
