Adhesion, Lamination, Protection

Adhesive Systems

Both cast and calendered vinyl products come in a permanent and removable adhesive versions. Do not use permanent adhesives on any installation that will ever require removal of the graphic. Look at the warranty from the manufacturer and the conditions that apply to the warranty. The adhesive systems having an air release or air egress will aid installation by allowing trapped air bubbles an avenue of escape. You can use traditional non-air release vinyl just fine as an alternate product, but most of the vehicle vinyl now has this feature by default.

Protection and Lamination

Lamination is typically done using a laminator and a matched pressure sensitive adhesive over laminate. If you are using calendered films, use a calendered over laminate. The same goes for cast vinyl media. Manufacturers sell materials that have matched components that are well suited to each other for this purpose. If you have compatibility issues, you should consult the manufacturer. In general, hard over laminates out last liquid protectants in both duration and protection -- and you should always check with the vinyl manufacturer before attempting to use liquid lamination. The process of laminating with vehicle wrap film can be tricky as the over laminate is quite thin. The correct roller pressure and brake tensions are critical to success. Since the over laminate can’t be removed, any flaws in this stage of processing will require reprinting. Do your testing beforehand and be sure your methods are repeatable.