The Winner

The Winner of “American Wrap Star 2010″ from left to right.
Todd A. Wendell – 1. Place, Cameron Blancher – 4. Place, Marco Dittl – 3. Place, Mike A. Tovar – 2. Place.

The Competition

4 similar Chevrolet Aveos Sedan, designed by the “WRAP EXPERTS”, are wrapped. During the contest the major task was to wrap the designated area of the vehicle in the highest possible quality and the second task will be speed.

Sign In Now for 2011!

Entry Form will available soon

Vehicles of all types have custom decals and graphics. Police cars have unique graphics in addition to their paint job and lights. Other emergency services, like ambulances and fire trucks, have their own distinct looks that are accomplished, in part, by their decals and graphics. Many people use decals and other graphics to personalize their vehicles, giving them something that expresses something about themselves or their interests.

In this free automotive video series, a professional will show you how to apply vehicle decals and graphics. You will learn what supplies and tools you will need, as well as how to prepare surfaces and care for graphics after they have been applied. You will get tips on measuring application areas and custom trimming of decals and graphics. You will also learn different methods of application, including wet quick, wet top hinge, dry center hinge, dry top hinge and wet center hinge. Finally, you will receive advice on putting vinyl on vinyl, working with curves and removing graphics from vehicles.

Apply Vehicle Graphics and Decals — powered by eHow.com

Watch the video to learn how to Apply Custom Decals and Graphics.

The Do’s and Don’ts of cleaning applied vinyl vehicle graphics

The Do’s

• Wash applied vinyl graphics with a blend of mild car wash detergent and clean water.
• Test any cleaning solution on a small section of the vinyl graphic before using.
• Always read the warning labels on car care products for proper safety instructions.
• Once you’ve washed the vehicle with a soapy water blend, rinse with clean water.
• Either let the vehicle air dry or dry off with a microfiber cloth.

The Don’ts

• Do not allow fuels to stay in contact with the vinyl for extended periods of time. Clean all spills as soon as possible.
• Do not apply carnauba-based wax over vinyl graphics.
• Do not use mechanical brush washing. Brushes can cause vinyl graphics to chip or peel around the edges or scratch the surface. They can also cause the graphic to fade, and dull the appearance of the over laminate.

Concerns about pressure washing vinyl vehicle graphics
Pressure washing should only be used when all other cleaning methods have been exhausted. Keep the following in mind while performing this type of cleaning…
• Pressure washing can cause the vinyl graphics to lift around the edges and peel away from the vehicle. (For Example See Diagram 1b.)
• Over time, pressure washing can degrade the face film causing the graphic to lose its luster, fade, crack and even chip away from the substrate.

Please consider the following to help prolong the life of the applied vehicle graphic when
choosing to pressure wash. (Based on vertical application)(For Example See Diagram 1.a)
• Water Temperature…72°F+/- 5°F
• Spray nozzle opening…40° wide pattern.
• Spray angle…45°
• Angle of graphic…90° (vertical)
• Distance from graphic…15”
• Water pressure…<= 800 PSI
• Length of time…30 sec.
Use extreme care when aiming the water spray toward the edge of the vinyl graphic. Sharp spray angles can cause vinyl graphic to lift from vehicle.
Absolutely under no circumstances should a turbo pressure nozzle be used when pressure washing applied vehicle graphics.

How to remove difficult pollutants or debris from applied vehicle graphics
When normal cleaning procedures don’t work to remove difficult debris from your applied vehicle graphics, try the following.
• Spot clean the area with Isopropyl Alcohol and a microfiber rag.
• Moisten a rag with a citrus based cleaner and naphtha and wipe down the problem areas. Immediately after using the citrus cleaner and naphtha rinse the area with water and soap.
If these cleaning methods do not work on problem areas please contact Oracal Product Technical Support for more helpful tips and information.

How to properly hand wash vinyl vehicle graphics.
Supplies Needed:
• Garden hose with standard spray nozzle attachment
• Clean bucket
• Mild car wash detergent
• Soft cotton or microfiber sponge
• Dry microfiber clothes

1. Rinse the graphic with water to wash away any loose sediments, dust, or dirt using your garden hose with spray nozzle attachment.
Practical Information
2. Mix together water and mild car wash detergent into your bucket. (Make sure the bucket is free of dirt and small rocks as these will scratch your car and or vinyl graphics.)
3. Soak your sponge with the water and soap mixture.
4. Clean the graphic starting from the top working down to the bottom. This will allow the dirty contaminated water to run downward.
5. Rinse the graphic with clean water using the hose with spray nozzle attachment.
6. Once the graphic is rinsed off with water allow it to air dry. You may also use a microfiber cloth to dry down the graphic.
7. Once dry, for added protection, you may apply a silicone or Teflon based polish designed for vinyl vehicle graphics. (Read and follow product manufactures directions and suggestions for frequency.)

Metallic Silver ECO-SOL MAX Ink Named 2009 DPI Product of the Year
Irvine, CA, February 16, 2010 – Roland DGA Corporation today announced the new VersaCAMM VS-640 inkjet printer/cutter featuring DPI award-winning Metallic Silver ECO-SOL MAX ink.
At 64″ wide, the VS-640 is Roland’s largest, fastest and most versatile VersaCAMM printer/cutter to date, designed to produce signs, banners, vehicle graphics and wraps, fine art posters, packaging prototypes, labels, decals, POP displays, heat transfers for apparel and more. The VS-640 combines a new generation of print head technology with integrated print/cut capabilities, print speeds up to 248 sqft./hr. in dual CMYK mode and advanced media handling for unmatched print quality and unattended production capabilities. Metallic and white inks allow users to add impact to virtually any graphic. The VS-640 is priced affordably at $26,495 and scheduled for availability in March 2010.
“We are proud to introduce this revolutionary printer/cutter at an affordable price point,” said Dana Curtis, product manager for Roland. “The VS-640 brings the last 20 years of innovation and expertise to one device, including integrated printing and contour cutting capabilities, next generation print head technology and accelerated print speeds all in a 64″ platform. It also produces white text, graphics and floods and hundreds of brilliant metallic colors for premium graphics and wraps. It is the industry’s best value and a powerful production tool for today’s shops.”
The VS-640 features Roland Intelligent Pass Control, Roland’s most advanced inkjet technology, and the industry’s newest print head technology featuring precision variable droplet capabilities. The new print head design automatically positions droplets of seven different sizes to optimize image quality at resolutions up to 1440 dpi. As a result, the VS-640 delivers exceptional quality prints that display smooth gradations and flawless solid colors when viewed up close.
With the VS-640, users can choose from three ink set configurations: CMYKKYMC for high speed production with no trace of chromatic banding; CMYKLcLmCM for enhanced blues and reds, flawless flesh tones and improved image quality across lighter colors; or CMYKLcLm+Mt+W for the added versatility of Metallic Silver and White ink.
ECO-SOL MAX ink offers a wide gamut, fast dry time and superior scratch resistance for dense, rich colors on a wide range of coated and uncoated media including vinyl, PET film, canvas, paper, transparent film and banner. ECO-SOL MAX delivers outdoor durability of three years for CMYK and Metallic Silver inks and one year for White ink. Roland’s patent-pending Advanced Ink Circulation System prevents the pigment in Metallic Silver and White ECO-SOL MAX inks from settling in the ink lines, dramatically reducing ink waste. This fully automated system requires no manual intervention.
As an integrated printer/cutter, the VS-640 prints and then automatically contour cuts images without any steps in between for unattended operation. The print/cut feature also enables the VS-640 to print and cut without registration or crop marks, expanding the usable print area. The advanced media handling system further ensures accurate media feeding and supports rolls up to 88 lbs. An optional take-up system is available.
New “Roland OnSupport” Mobile Production Assistance
The VS-640 features “Roland OnSupport,” a new online customer support system allowing users to remotely track the status of VS-640 activities. The system sends e-mail alerts to a remote PC or mobile phone notifying users of important information such as when a job is completed and when ink is running low. With Roland OnSupport, users can also quickly download update files by accessing an exclusive website with just one mouse click.
Roland VersaWorks® RIP Software
The VS-640 includes VersaWorks 4.0, the latest version of Roland’s RIP software developed exclusively for the company’s inkjet printers and printer/cutters. This true Adobe PostScript 3 RIP ensures exceptional production output with unmatched ease of use and incorporates the latest Adobe CPSI 3019 engine.
VersaWorks supports the Roland Color system which accurately reproduces spot colors from color charts and swatch books. The Roland Metallic Color library in VersaWorks features metallic colors that print using CMYK+Mt in a single pass. This palette offers users 512 metallic spot colors including gold, silver, bronze and a wide range of pearlescent colors that are easy to incorporate into graphics. Users can create their own custom metallic colors as well.
With VersaWorks, users can choose from print options including a high-speed mode for production banner printing, the MAX Impact preset for vivid outdoor graphics and Artistic mode for exceptional indoor graphics. In addition, VersaWorks features Variable Data Printing, supports up to four Roland devices simultaneously and automatically estimates the ink usage and print time for each graphic to accurately monitor time and costs. VersaWorks features also include embedded ICC profile support, ink level adjustment tools, software proofing capabilities, error diffusion for outstanding print quality and advanced cropping, tiling and nesting options. The PerfCut function enables users to produce precision perforated cut lines. VersaWorks 4.0 is fully compatible with Windows 7, Vista, XP and 2000. It is scheduled for availability in March 2010.
The VersaCAMM VS-640 will be available through Roland authorized dealers. For more information, please visit www.rolanddga.com or call Roland Customer Services at (800) 542-2307.
Roland DGA Corporation
Roland DGA Corporation and affiliated companies are pioneers in the development of innovative digital technology for creative professionals. From its inception as part of world-renowned Roland Music, Roland DGA Corp. has introduced an award-winning product line that continues to set new standards for precision, reliability and performance. Professionals worldwide rely on Roland solutions everyday in the sign, grand-format, sublimation, UV inkjet, digital graphics, vehicle graphics, fine art, photography, flexo, label, engraving and 3D modeling industries.
Headquartered in Irvine, CA, Roland DGA Corporation serves as the U.S.-based marketing, distribution and sales arm of Roland DG Corporation in Hamamatsu, Japan. Affiliated companies include Roland Corporation US in Los Angeles, CA and Rodgers Instruments LLC in Hillsboro, OR. Roland DG Corporation is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Roland DGA is ISO 9001:2008 certified, and Roland DG is ISO 9001:2000 and 14001:2004 certified. For more information on Roland DGA products, please call (800) 542-2307 or visit the Web site at www.rolanddga.com.

Source Roland DGA

Free Upgrade for Existing Owners of Roland Inkjet Printers and Printer/Cutters
Irvine, CA, March 8, 2010 –
Roland DGA Corporation today announced VersaWorks Version 4.0, a full featured easy-to-use RIP software package developed exclusively for the company’s line of wide-format inkjet printers and printer/cutters.
Roland inkjet printers and printer/cutters are used by professionals worldwide for applications ranging from signs, banners and vehicle wraps to custom apparel, packaging prototypes, labels, decals and POP displays. Based on the latest Adobe CPSI 3019 engine, VersaWorks 4.0 RIP software is included with all Roland inkjets, providing users with a powerful, fully integrated digital printing solution.
Existing Roland inkjet customers can upgrade to Version 4.0 free of charge through an Internet connection using the Roland@NET service.
“VersaWorks is an exceptionally robust, true Adobe PostScript 3 RIP ensuring outstanding production output and ease of use,” said Hiroshi Ono, senior product manager for Roland. “We are pleased to offer VersaWorks 4.0 to our Roland inkjet customers free of charge, reflecting our ongoing commitment to providing them with the most advanced technology available.”
Fully compatible with Windows 7, Vista, XP and 2000, VersaWorks 4.0 offers several new enhancements including error diffusion for outstanding print quality and an Advanced Job Log feature that allow users to export job information such as printing length and ink consumption into Excel supported file formats.
New Metallic Spot Color Library
With the introduction of Version 4.0, VersaWorks now includes more than 500 metallic colors in the Roland Metallic Color Library, part of the Roland Color matching system. This spot color library supports users of VersaCAMM VS-640 and SOLJET PRO III XC-540MT inkjets and includes silver, gold, bronze and a range of pearlescent colors. More than 1,000 standard spot colors are also available in the Roland Color System supporting all Roland inkjets.
The Roland Color System allows users to print spot color charts and swatch books on any media. These reference tools help customers choose the best spot color to match a corporate logo or team color. Roland Color System spot colors can then be reproduced on the same media with 100 percent accuracy every time.
For users of Roland’s VersaUV LEC LED-UV inkjet printer/cutters, VersaWorks 4.0 now features more than 70 textures in the Roland Texture System Library that can be produced using the LEC’s clear coat ink.
Powerful Printing and Cutting Options
Other VersaWorks features include several print options to match the demands of each job. Users can choose from high-speed mode for production banner printing, the MAX Impact preset for vivid outdoor graphics and Artistic mode for exceptional indoor graphics. VersaWorks features Variable Data Printing, supports up to four Roland devices simultaneously and offers support for Roland’s GX series cutters which allows professionals to manage stand-alone cutting operations or pair a Roland cutter with select Roland inkjet printers for print/cut applications. VersaWorks automatically estimates the ink usage and print time for each graphic to accurately monitor time and costs.
VersaWorks also offers embedded ICC profile support, ink level adjustment tools, software proofing capabilities, and advanced cropping, tiling and nesting options. The PerfCut function enables users of Roland printer/cutters to produce precision perforated cut lines.
Roland DGA Corporation
Roland DGA Corporation and affiliated companies are pioneers in the development of innovative digital technology for creative professionals. From its inception as part of world-renowned Roland Music, Roland DGA Corp. has introduced an award-winning product line that continues to set new standards for precision, reliability and performance. Professionals worldwide rely on Roland solutions everyday in the sign, grand-format, sublimation, UV inkjet, digital graphics, vehicle graphics, fine art, photography, flexo, label, engraving and 3D modeling industries.
Headquartered in Irvine, CA, Roland DGA Corporation serves as the U.S.-based marketing, distribution and sales arm of Roland DG Corporation in Hamamatsu, Japan. Affiliated companies include Roland Corporation US in Los Angeles, CA and Rodgers Instruments LLC in Hillsboro, OR. Roland DG Corporation is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Roland DGA is ISO 9001:2008 certified, and Roland DG is ISO 9001:2000 and 14001:2004 certified. For more information on Roland DGA products, please call (800) 542-2307 or visit the Web site at www.rolanddga.com.

Source Roland DGA

Surface Preparation

Be sure the application surface is clean and free of dirt, oils, grease, residue, wax and dust.
Clean with soap and water, dry surface, wipe with alcohol.
A clean surface is IMPORTANT to ensure maximum adhesion, durability and life of the decal.

Tips, Tricks and Help

For wet application – A good homemade application solution is: 3 to 4 drops of Dawn dishwashing soap in a gallon of water ( yes just 3 or 4 drops is enough and use DAWN only) Mark location
for the graphic by marking it off with masking tape around where the graphic will be placed. (Marking it with pen or marker the marks may disappear when you get the area wet if using wet application.
Always rub pre-spaced graphic before starting to be sure it is adhering to the masking carrier.
Wetting the masking/application tape after the graphic is applied and squeegeed will help in the removal of application tape. DO NOT hold pre-spaced graphics in air trying to remove the backing, LAY GRAPHIC FACE DOWN on a flat surface. To release any trapped air bubbles, use a pin and put a pin hole in the EDGE of the Bubble, and push air bubble from one side towards the edge with pin hole. DO NOT PUT PIN HOLE IN MIDDLE OF BUBBLE.

Pre-spaced Application

Dry Application:
1) Hold or tape the graphic in place on vehicle. Apply a strip of Masking tape along top (or side) of the graphic, using as a hinge.
2) Hold decal up or to the side, depending on the hinge, and peel off the backing paper. (Not letting decal touch the surface).
3) Hold the decal opposite the tape hinge and pull taught and close to the application surface.
(But not touching the surface)
4) Start closest to the hinge and squeegee the graphic against the surface, overlapping your strokes and moving across the graphic pushing the air away from the applied area as to not trap any air.
5) Remove front application tape
6) Re-rub graphics (carefully)

Wet Application:
1 ) Hold or tape the graphic in place on vehicle marking corners with masking tape around graphic
2 ) Lay pre-spaced graphic face down on a table or clean area – NOT THE FLOOR
3 ) Remove backing paper or plastic
4 ) Spray surface area AND exposed adhesive area of graphic
5 ) Position on surface within the tape markings
6 ) Working from center out, squeegee graphic in place
7 ) Wipe off excess water
8 ) Remove front application tape
9 ) Re-rub graphics (carefully)

Screen Printed Decal Application

Dry Application:
1) Position decal with wax backing in place
2) Fold back at slit
3) Remove partial wax backing
4) Apply exposed adhesive side of decal to surface as described in step 4 above.
5) Lift other half of decal, remove remaining wax backing And apply remaining decal to surface
6) Rub entire decal firmly in place

Wet Application:
1) Lay decal face down on a table or clean area. NOT THE FLOOR
2) Remove backing paper.
3) Spray surface area AND exposed adhesive area of decal.
4) Position on surface
5) Working from center out, squeegee decal in place
6) Wipe off excess water
7) Re-rub decal after 24 hours

Storage:

Always store decals in a cool dry place, out of direct sunlight and flat whenever possible.

source http://www.solargraphicsusa.com/

Learn how to avoid the top 3 causes of graphics failure, reduce costs, and grow your business profitably. This workshop will focus on what it takes to sell and install graphics as well as understand what films and adhesives to use for a successful application. You will leave the seminar with more confidence and understanding of your products & services using practical techniques to ensure a successful printing & installation – and have had fun at the same time!

In addition to a full vehicle wrap led by an expert installer, we have a Sprinter door for training on specific application techniques to successfully apply graphics in deep compound channels. We also have a Caravan back door for training on specific application techniques to successfully apply perforated window film onto curved glass.

Each one-day session will consist of 6 hours of training (2 hours instruction, 4 + hours hands – on) Each participant will receive the following:

new second in a series 3M™ / NASCAR® Tshirt
Information binder (contains presentation materials from the instruction and more…)
40% off 3M Digital Bundle (consists of one roll of 3M IJ180Cv3 Graphic Film and one roll of 3M Overlaminate)
40% off 3M Perf. Bundle (consists of one roll of 3M IJ8171 Graphic Film and one roll of 3M 8914 Optically Clear Overlaminate)
40% off Select 3M Application Tools
Samples
Hands – On training
Morning refreshments & Lunch are included.
Cost is $275.00 per person plus GST. Early Bird special will be available for each session.

Upcoming Sessions
(A minimum of 10 people are required per session)
March 30 – 31 – London, ON @ 3M Oxford
April 19 – 21 – Vancouver, BC @ BCIT Burnaby (Automotive Building NE-10)
April 26 – 29 – Calgary, AB @ SAIT Maryland Heights Campus (Bldg # 118)
May 10 & 11 – Toronto, ON @ ND Graphics (Hwy 400 & Hwy 407)
May 12 & 13 – Toronto, ON @ City of Brampton (Works & Transportation Dept.)
June 1 – 3 – Montreal, QC (Centre de formation NOVA)
June 9 – 10 – Halifax, NS @ NSCC Akerley Campus (Automotive Dept.)
June 18 – Ottawa, ON (Nepean Sportsplex)
June 23 & 24 – Winnipeg (3M Canada Company)
Fall sessions will be announced mid summer
How to Register:
Registration Forms will become available once locations are determined, Contact your 3M Distributor if you are interested. If you require additional information, please click the contact button below and we will respond within 24 hours.

John A. Nielsen _ 3M website.

Thousands of square feet of textured walls and columns in arenas, stadiums, restaurants, malls and other public spaces are coming to life thanks to 3M’s new graphic system for textured surfaces.

When applied with 3M’s new tools and techniques, 3M Scotchcal Graphic Film for Textured Surfaces IJ8624 conforms and molds over indoor and outdoor textured, painted or unpainted surfaces such as concrete block, brick, tile, poured cement and stucco—including most mortar lines. Yet the product is flexible enough to wrap around columns.

The film is protected with 3M Scotchcal Luster Overlaminate 8524.

3M’s film for textured surfaces is a faster and more economical alternative to comparably-sized hand painted or expensively framed and hung graphics. Film allows you to create photo-realistic images — something that just isn’t possible with paint on textured surfaces.

One of the challenges to successful textured-surface applications is getting the film and adhesive to conform and adhere to the irregular texture of many substrates. 3M has met this challenge by combining conformable and durable graphic films, a new adhesive and new, easy to use tools with effective application techniques.

Tools and Equipment

3M’s application process employs several 3M-designed foam roller tools that are used in combination with a heat gun in the successful application of the film to a textured surface.

The general application technique is simple — heat the film and immediately roll it with one of 3M’s tools to make the film conform to the surface and maximize adhesive contact. The foam used in the tools is designed to withstand high heat; standard foam paint rollers will melt immediately.

Equipment required includes an electronically-controlled, high temperature, heat gun, heat-resistant gloves and an air release tool. Also useful for preparing the surface is a stiff brush and appropriate cleaning solution. The following 3M tools are specifically designed for this application:

• The 3M Textured Surface Tool TSA-1 tool is the largest of the foam rollers and is used for general application of larger areas.
• The 3M Textured Surface Tool TSA-2 tool is smaller and narrower and designed for use in corners and mortar lines.
• The 3M Textured Surface Tool TSA-3 tool is designed specifically for edges where the graphic meets a wall, ceiling or other obstruction.

Textured Surfaces

How does someone determine if a graphic film will stick to a painted dry wall, concrete block, glazed tile or brick wall? And how does one prepare it to make sure it’s ready to receive a graphic? Let’s start by defining the types of wall materials recommended for 3M’s textured-surface system.

All texture or surface roughness has a profile that can be described by height, depth, width, shape and so on. Raised texture has protrusions that rise above a fairly flat surface. Recessive texture has depressions that sink below the top surface. Combination texture has both protrusions and depressions, often with no discernible flat or top surface.

Brick is a kiln-dried, hard clay surfacing material that is usually patterned or textured, producing a moderately rough combination texture.

Concrete masonry or concrete block, as the names suggests, is made of concrete. The texture can vary greatly. Some concrete blocks have a relatively smooth top surface but a recessed texture.

Stucco is a mixture of Portland cement and water that dries to a very hard surface that can range from rounded, moderate texture to ragged, heavy texture.

Tile, like brick, is a kiln-dried hard clay surfacing material, but is generally much thinner than brick and either glazed or unglazed. This type of material usually has little or no raised texture and any texture is often rounded and smooth.

Mortar is a mixture that fills the spaces between building materials such as blocks and bricks. The configuration of mortar lines, from texture to width and depth, can vary greatly and is an important consideration in applying film to textured surfaces.

Mortar line types seen most often include Flush, Raked and Struck. Flush mortar lines are the easiest to deal with because there is little or no stress placed on the film to conform. Raked and struck mortar lines both require the film to stretch, conform and adhere.

In most cases, 3M recommends that film not be stretched into mortar lines deeper than one-eighth of an inch.

However, for very wide mortar lines, film can be successfully conformed to greater depths with careful application. Additional rolling with the TSA-2 or TSA-3 tools may be necessary to set the film to the bottom of the deep channel.

To test the suitability of the textured surface for graphics, apply at least an 8.5×11-inch sample to the desired area. For particularly challenging applications, doing a test application and checking after 14 days is recommended.

Surface Preparation

Preparing the surface for application is another important step. Freshly painted walls usually need to cure for at least 30 days to ensure a good bond. Applying an adhesive material to under-cured paint may result in premature failure of the graphic or considerable paint damage when the graphic is removed.

3M’s textured-surface film has gray adhesive, so it provides excellent hiding power. If applying a new graphic over an existing one, be sure the existing graphic is thoroughly adhered. Inspect it for loose edges, bubbles and other evidence of incomplete bond. Contaminants such as dirt, grease, and food spills on the substrate create a barrier between the adhesive and the wall.

For most walls, washing the substrate with a recommended cleaning solution is necessary. Avoid soaps or preparations that contain waxes, oils or lotions because they impair graphic adhesion.

Common solutions for general soil are one ounce of synthetic detergent per gallon of lukewarm water. For grease or oil, a solution of trisodium phosphate (TSP) and lukewarm water prepared according to the manufacturer’s instructions is typical.

It is also a good practice to brush off any loose material, especially from mortar lines.

Using Tools and Techniques

There is an art to applying graphic film to textured walls that includes balancing the amount of heat, speed of application and pressure applied. Before installing a graphic, perform some practice installations on a variety of painted or sealed textured surfaces.

It is essential to use heat to warm the film and adhesive immediately before applying pressure so the application tool makes it conform easily to the texture. A good initial speed is about two-inches per second. That can change depending on the film, texture and tool temperature, but concentrating too much heat for too long in one area can cause the film to melt or blister.

If too low a temperature is used or one moves too fast, the film doesn’t become pliable and will not conform to the texture. It is important to use the correct heat, speed and pressure while first applying the graphic. Reheating lifted film rarely produces satisfactory results.

The width, depth and profile of a mortar line, as discussed earlier, are additional important considerations.

Safety Considerations

The following safety precautions are recommended to help prevent personal injury or property damage:

• Use grounded electrical outlets.
• Ensure that any electrical cords are in good condition.
• Always protect the tool hand with a heat-resistant glove.
• Use the entire arm, not just the wrist, to apply pressure to the rollers to reduce physical stress and fatigue.
• Never reach above shoulder height or too far left or right when using the heat gun to avoid physical stress or dropping the tool.
• Finally, use caution when putting the gun down. A hot gun can scorch or melt some substrates and may ignite flammable materials in the area.

Hanging the Graphic

Hanging the graphic film in preparation for installation isn’t much different than in any other installation. For complete details, please refer to 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.37.

• Plan the layout before beginning to save time, frustration and money.
• The best layout allows the film to bridge all mortar lines by at least one inch. For a standard installation, the top corner of the panel should be at least one inch from mortar lines horizontally and vertically.
• Consider whether the graphic will be going around a corner or over an opening and plan so the edges are in the least vulnerable place.
• Narrower panels are easier to work with, especially when working from a ladder.
• Use a hinged method to hang the panel.
• Although technically not a positionable film, the texture of the surface can mean that there is very little initial adhesive-to-surface contact and it can be moved around.
• For deep textures, set the edge of the graphic by gently heating and rolling the edge, always considering where the air will escape as you work. This improves the appearance of the graphic.
• As the liner is removed, the film stretches a little. To make alignment of each panel very easy, use this technique: pull down about a foot of liner, let go of the film, allow it to relax for a few seconds and then continue in that manner.
• Fingers may be used to tack the film lightly to the substrate. Avoid broad sweeping movements with the hands.
• Bubbles or wrinkles in the film are rarely a problem since it will be heated and shrink to conform to the texture.

Full Application

Let’s take a look at the proper techniques for doing a full application.

Position the heat gun at the top center of the graphic to set the edge. Roll the perimeter with firm pressure and a cooler heat gun and light pressure to increase the adhesion at the edge, being careful not to seal the edge preventing air escape.

The amount of heat and pressure required is a function of the roughness of the surface — good heating and moderate pressure are important for rough surfaces, but for relatively smooth surfaces, lightly rolling the cold film is often sufficient. Move at a steady rate — at about two-inches per second — keeping the roller level. Do not pick the roller up until it has gone past the edge of the film.

Take a moment to observe how well the film is conforming to the surface. If there are indications of blisters or burning, do the next pass a little faster. If there are bubbles, slow down a little and apply more pressure.

Continue working the graphic, center-to-edge, center-to-edge. If not standing on a ladder, work on the seam line from top to bottom. If standing on a ladder, work down the graphic until stepping off and then work on the unapplied seam line. Finish applying the panel by working from the seam all the way across to the other edge, overlapping each stroke by about 30 percent.

Cleaning and Removal

Maintaining the graphic is easy.

If a film overlaminate has been used, use a cleaner designed for high-quality painted surfaces. The cleaner must be wet, non-abrasive, without strong solvents and have a pH value of between three and 11—neither strongly acidic nor alkaline.

If the graphic has a clear coat, use a wet, non-abrasive cleaner containing no solvents, no alcohol and a pH value also of three and 11.

The 3M film for textured surfaces may be removed from many substrates. Pick on the upper corner of the graphic to get started. Applying heat and using the tip of an air release tool will help. Aim the heat gun at the face of the graphic close to the lifted edge and start warming a small area. Peel back the film at about 180 degrees.

John A. Nielsen is a Senior Product Development Specialist with 3M Graphics Market Center. To learn more abut applying 3M Scotchcal Graphic Film for Textured Surfaces IJ8624, or to receive a DVD with installation instructions, call the 3M Graphics Market Center Tech Service Hotline at 800-328-3908. Product and Instruction Bulletins, which discuss the products and techniques in detail, are available at www.3mgraphics.com.