Arlon Graphics Elevates Experience at ISA International Sign Expo 2024

Apr 10,2024 / By Arlon Graphics / No Comment

Placentia, California, April 10, 2024

Arlon Graphics, a global leader in manufacturing innovative graphic materials, is excited to announce its participation in the highly anticipated ISA International Sign Expo 2024. Taking place from April 10th to April 12th, 2024, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, this event is set to be a pinnacle on the graphic industry calendar. Arlon Graphics is thrilled to showcase its latest innovations, including its exciting, non-PVC, VITAL range, at booths #1746 and #1246.

Arlon Graphics will proudly showcase its premium, cast non-PVC products, DPF V9700 and Series V3370, which launched on March 19th, 2024. These innovative solutions set a new standard in the industry by offering unparalleled performance, durability, and environmental sustainability. Visitors to ISA 2024 will have the exclusive opportunity to experience VITAL firsthand, with live demos and its utilization in Arlon’s Wrap Dash.

Arlon will be hosting FLITE School at both of their booths, offering attendees a chance to immerse themselves in a hands-on learning opportunity. FLITE School will educate participants on the essentials of FLITE Technology®, Arlon’s proprietary lite contact adhesive system, and participants can earn their wings if they pass FLITE School. FLITE School 1.0 participants can earn Silver FLITE Wings, and new at ISA 2024, Gold FLITE Wings with FLITE School 2.0!

Arlon will also be hosting an exhilarating wrap contest, the Wrap a Rivian contest, at booth #1746, where 8 teams of 2 skilled installers compete in a 3-round, tournament-style wrap battle. Cheer on your favorite teams as they showcase their speed and accuracy while wrapping a Rivian R1T with featured Arlon materials. ISA 2024 attendees are encouraged to watch the competition and will have the opportunity to win prizes.

Additionally, visitors can look forward to competing in Arlon’s Wrap Dash station at booth #1746. Participants can race against fellow ISA 2024 attendees and friends as they navigate through various wrap challenges. The fastest times will be rewarded with awesome prizes.

“We are thrilled to showcase our latest innovations and engage with industry professionals at ISA International Sign Expo 2024,” said Chad Russell, Chief Commercial Officer of Arlon Graphics. “Our dedication to excellence and innovation is ingrained in everything we do at Arlon. We’re excited to demonstrate the breadth of our offerings and share our vision for the future of graphic materials with attendees at our booths.”

Join Arlon Graphics at ISA International Sign Expo 2024 for an unforgettable experience filled with innovation, education, and excitement. Visit booths #1746 and #1246 to discover the future of graphic materials and learn why Arlon is Your Partner of Choice.

About Arlon Graphics

Arlon Graphics is a leading global manufacturer of high-quality graphic materials for the visual communication, vehicle wrap, and wide-format digital printing industries. With a focus on innovation, performance, and sustainability, Arlon is dedicated to producing materials that not only deliver exceptional results but also contribute to a healthier planet. Headquartered in California, USA, Arlon serves customers worldwide, driving the industry forward with groundbreaking products and technical support.

For further information on all Arlon products, visit arlon.com:

U.S.A. Office: 200 Boysenberry Lane, Placentia, CA 92870
Tel: (800) 232-7161, (714) 985-6300; Fax: (714) 985-6305

EMEA Office: Dr. Lelykade 22B, 2583CM Den Haag, The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0) 70-354-4311; Fax: +31 (0) 70-355-7721

China Office: No. 1989 Xinchang Road, Weifang, Shandong, 262400, China
Tel: +86 0536 6226568

Arlon Graphics Introduces its VITAL Range: Redefining Premium with Quality, Durability, and Sustainability.

Mar 17,2024 / By Arlon Graphics / No Comment

Placentia, California, March 18, 2024

Arlon Graphics, a premier global manufacturer of graphic materials, is proud to announce the launch of VITAL, its innovative new non-PVC product range. VITAL represents a significant step forward in the graphics industry, setting a new standard for those who demand excellence in quality, durability, and sustainability without compromise. Engineered to deliver the essentials for success, the VITAL Range underscores Arlon’s commitment to innovation, performance, and environmental stewardship.

Introducing the First Products in the VITAL Range:

DPF V9700: A premium cast polyurethane film, featuring FLITE Technology®, designed for exceptional performance in full or partial vehicle wraps and fleet vehicle branding.

SERIES V3370: A premium cast polyurethane gloss overlaminate, that provides superior scratch recovery properties, chemical resistance, and extended durability. Like DPF V9700, this overlaminate is perfect for vehicle wraps and fleet branding and can be combined with a variety of other Arlon films for different applications.

Both products exemplify the VITAL range’s benefits to sustainability. These non-PVC films represent the pinnacle of Arlon’s research and development efforts, offering an unparalleled combination of performance, innovation, and environmental responsibility.

The global product launch, scheduled for March 19^th, 2024, marks a significant milestone for Arlon Graphics and the graphics material industry at large. Arlon’s VITAL range will debut at FESPA Global Print Expo Amsterdam 2024 where attendees will have an opportunity to interact with these new products. Additionally, customers are encouraged to visit vital.arlon.com to engage with three different levels of training sessions, learn more about the VITAL Range, and find a distributor to purchase and experience these products firsthand.

“Arlon’s VITAL Range is more than just a product launch; it’s a commitment to our customers, our industry, and a step towards a more sustainable future,” said Rebecca Chen, Director of Product Management and Development at Arlon Graphics. “We’re excited to offer our clients products that not only meet but exceed their expectations for quality, performance, and sustainability. We invite everyone to explore the VITAL Range and see what these amazing products can do for them.”

The launch of the VITAL Range is supported by a series of training sessions, tailored to enhance user engagement and knowledge through three escalating levels of depth and complexity. The first level of training, Intro to VITAL, offers participants an introductory insight into the first VITAL products, DPF V9700 and Series V3370, alongside the opportunity to receive a product sample and the chance to win an e-bike, underlining the brand’s commitment to sustainability. Progressing to the second level, Hands-On Virtual Training, participants are provided with a comprehensive VITAL kit delivered directly to their door, containing samples, essential tools, and a phone mount, ensuring they can participate in the virtual training from any location while experiencing the VITAL difference first-hand.

This educational journey culminates in the third level, where participants can book in-person training sessions with Arlon Technical Solution experts to unlock the full potential of the VITAL Range through advanced training, further solidifying their product understanding and proficiency. Additionally, Arlon’s Green Rewards Cashback program incentivizes participation by offering participants of levels two and three the opportunity to earn up to USD $750, or equivalent local currency, in cashback on their VITAL product purchases.

This strategic blend of education, training, and rewarding incentives guarantees that both new and existing customers have extensive opportunities to discover, engage with, and benefit from the VITAL Range. This initiative not only rewards engagement but also encourages the adoption of sustainable practices within the industry. These virtual trainings and information about Arlon’s VITAL Range and the Green Rewards Cashback program can be found at vital.arlon.com.

Experience the future of non-PVC graphic materials with Arlon Graphics’ VITAL Range. Discover the difference quality, durability, and sustainability can make in your projects. Visit vital.arlon.com to learn more and take the first step towards a greener, more successful future.

About Arlon Graphics

Arlon Graphics is a leading global manufacturer of high-quality graphic materials for the visual communication, vehicle wrap, and wide-format digital printing industries. With a focus on innovation, performance, and sustainability, Arlon is dedicated to producing materials that not only deliver exceptional results but also contribute to a healthier planet. Headquartered in California, USA, Arlon serves customers worldwide, driving the industry forward with groundbreaking products and technical support.

For further information on all Arlon products, visit arlon.com:

U.S.A. Office: 200 Boysenberry Lane, Placentia, CA 92870
Tel: (800) 232-7161, (714) 985-6300; Fax: (714) 985-6305

EMEA Office: Dr. Lelykade 22B, 2583CM Den Haag, The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0) 70-354-4311; Fax: +31 (0) 70-355-7721

China Office: No. 1989 Xinchang Road, Weifang, Shandong, 262400, China
Tel: +86 0536 6226568

Digital Printing Signage

Covid-19: Free Downloadable Signs Part 2

Jul 6,2020 / By Arlon Graphics / No Comment

Signage is playing a monumental role in bringing awareness to ever-changing health and safety guidelines around the globe. As businesses transition into new phases, it’s often the little things like updating signage that can make a big difference. Our team developed a COVID-19 Downloadable Signs Part 2, to help ease your transition into the next phase.

All signs are available in English and Spanish. To download the files, click the link below for each image group. Click here for Part 1 of COVID-19: Free Downloadable Signs.

Curbside Pickup

Click Here for English Downloadable Sign
Click Here for Spanish Downloadable Sign

Floor Signage

Click Here for English Downloadable Signs
Click Here for Spanish Downloadable Signs

Face Mask Informational Signage

Click Here for English Downloadable Signs
Click Here for Spanish Downloadable Signs

No Contact Service Signage

Click Here for English Downloadable Signs
Click Here for Spanish Downloadable Signs

Safety Notice Signage

Click Here for English Downloadable Signs
Click Here for Spanish Downloadable Signs

Numbered Parking Signage

Orange free downloadable parking spot sign for Covid-19 Signage

Click Here for English Downloadable Signs
Click Here for Spanish Downloadable Signs

As you look for the sign that suits your business needs, remember to rely on the best print films around.

For Floor Applications, the following Arlon products are UL 510 certified for slip-resistance: Series 3220, Series 3420, DPF 510 Removable, DPF 4600GLX/MLX, and DPF 8200X High Tack.

For POP signs or A-Frame Signs: DPF 510 Product Line, DPF 4600GLX/MLX, DPF 8000™ Ultra Tack, DPF 8200 High Tack, and DPF 8200X High Tack.

Learn more about our products on our website. If you have any questions or comments, make sure you leave them down below.

Signage

Arlon Floor Graphics – FAQ

Jun 24,2020 / By Arlon Graphics / No Comment

There are so many overlaminate options for floor graphics specifically, why would you add another product to your inventory to service one application? Select Arlon overlaminates are now approved under regional regulations as slip-resistant for interior floor graphic applications. But, what does holding certification for floor graphics mean? And compatible media can you use with these overlaminates. Read below as we answer those questions and more in our Floor Overlaminates FAQ.

What Arlon products are certified as slip-resistant for interior floor graphic applications?

In North America, Series 3220 Gloss and Series 3420 Gloss & Matte are UL 410 approved for interior floor graphic applications.
In EMEA, Series 3220 Gloss, Series 3420 Gloss & Matte, and Series 3510 Matte overlaminate are approved under the EN 14041 regulation.
Latin America follows the guidelines set by UL 410 and EN 14041 and offers all of the products covered by both regulatory bodies for its region.
In Australia, Series 3420 Matte and Series 3510 Matte overlaminate are approved under the AS 142934&&.

What are the surfaces that Arlon recommends for interior floor graphics?

Arlon recommends its existing overlaminates for interior, short-term floor graphic applications with a compatible Arlon base film. The overlaminates previously mentioned can also be used for many other applications as well.

The recommended interior surfaces are smooth floors and low-profile carpet, including:

Waxed vinyl flooring
Sealed concrete
Marble
Ceramic tile
Sealed wood
Terrazzo
Low pile commercial-grade carpet

Low pile commercial-grade carpet is a carpet having shorter fibers with tighter fabric loops.

What technique do you recommend for installation on smooth floors and/or carpets?

For all interior floor surfaces, we recommend testing the compatibility of the media to ensure media will stay down, remove well, and not damage the surface. We recommend avoiding placing graphics in areas that are inclined to get wet.

For more installation best practices, please refer to Arlon’s Floor Installation Guide. For any additional questions, please contact Arlon’s Technical Services department at TS_Dept@arlon.com and (800) 232-7161.

What Arlon digital media do you recommend for floor graphic applications?

The recommended base film for smooth floors and low-profile carpet is DPF 8200 High Tack. The ultimate high tack calendered film for demanding surfaces.

For smooth floors only, DPF 4600GLX/MLX, DPF 510 GT/MT/GTR/MTR, and DPF 8000 High Tack are recommended.

Example of floor graphics being used for social distancing purposes.

Can the overlaminate be used with other Arlon products that aren’t listed as compatible? Can I use this overlaminate with other brands of media?

Arlon has done extensive testing on a variety of media to determine the best base film for the intended application. Currently, we do not recommend mixing and matching with other non-compatible base films or other competitor products.

What are the recommended printing platforms?

If the recommended base film and overlaminate are being used for floor graphic applications, then Solvent, Eco-Solvent, and Latex are compatible print platforms. UV inks are not recommended if the product combinations are being used for floor graphics due to the textured nature of the ink.

What is the durability of the overlaminates?

The expected durability of the overlaminate is not associated with the durability of the overlaminate, as stated in Arlon’s Print Media Total System Warranty. These products are recommended for short term usage. To determine the best product for the application, Arlon always recommends testing on the actual surface before using the above products as product performance can vary greatly depending on the surface type, level of foot traffic, elemental exposure, the carpet type, and floor condition. Because of the variability of floor condition, no specific durability is given for floor graphics.

Are there recommended tools for applying floor graphics?

Yes, our technical experts have outlined their recommended tools for successfully applying floor graphics.

Squeegee with Felt Tip: For applying media without damaging the graphic.
Felt Block Squeegee: For applying graphics on the carpet.
Masking Tape: Positioning the graphic.
9mm Snap-off blades – Used to trim excess material.
Yellotools BodyGuard Knife – To cut the release liner.
Measuring Tape – Positioning and alignment.
Rigid Scraper: To scrape off floor contaminants.

What is the recommendation for prepping your surface for floor graphic installation?

Similarly to any other graphic application, diligent prepping and cleaning of the floor before installing floor graphics is critical to the success of the install. The video below outlines the steps to prep your surface for floor graphic installation.

For additional preparation, recommendations see our Interior Floor Graphic Installation Guide.

What is the recommended maintenance for a floor graphic?

To keep the vinyl looking it’s best, use a mix of mild soapy water to remove dirt from the vinyl, and adequately dry the graphic after cleaning.

Signage Wall Applications

Tips for Installing High Tack Wall Films

Jun 15,2020 / By Arlon Graphics / No Comment

Wall graphics provide a great opportunity to increase your sign shop’s revenue; they’re mostly straightforward, the surfaces are relatively flat, and they are faster to apply compared to a vehicle wrap. But what about high tack wall films? Unlike other wall films, the tack of these films can create a unique set of challenges. The good news is, we are here to help with our application tips for installing high tack wall films.

Application Tips

Use an Overlaminate

When it comes to walls, the thickness of a high tack film is your friend. Although tackiness is primarily a feature of the adhesive, increasing the film’s thickness will stiffen it. A stiffer film will help reduce pre-tack and prevent pre-stretching.

Thoroughly Clean the Surface

Although some contaminants on the surface may ease the installation process by reducing the tack of the product, you also run the risk of the film failing prematurely.

Clean the surface by first brushing it dry to knock off loose dirt. Follow it up with a wash either with a sponge and soapy water for painted smooth walls or power washing for exterior textured walls. NOTE: Soap works best as a degreaser because isopropyl alcohol does not wash off oils or grease.
Rinse and let the surface completely dry.
For painted smooth walls, wipe the surface with a 50% water/alcohol solution with multiple and heavy passes on the top, bottom, and side edges.

Aim For The Right Surface Temperature

The ideal surface temperature is between 65°F – 90°F (18°C – 32°C). It’s essential to stay the optimal application temperature range for the best performance, but we understand that’s not always a possibility. When applying in colder climates, the risk of the film tearing or shattering is very high. One of the best ways to avoid these issues is to take your time ensuring the proper alignment; this way, you won’t have to reposition the film risking a tear or shatter. When applying in hotter climates, timing is key. Avoid the hottest hours of the day and apply when the sun is down or in the shade.

Dry-fitting and Registration Marks

Dry-fitting refers to taping up the panels onto the wall without removing the liner. This step allows you to preview the location of each panel and adjust if necessary. Once all the adjustments are made, create registration marks with a water-soluble pencil or tape.

Identify Your Key Panel

In some cases, the first panel does not have any of the design elements to be a proper reference for the remaining panels, like a text that needs to be level with the floor. Consult the mockup to identify your key panel and apply that first. For a more in-depth look into identifying panels, read our Basic Guide to Registering Vinyl Graphics.

Consistent Technique

Having a consistent technique will help you avoid mistakes when applying a high tack film. There are several ways to start your panel–hinge, half-moon, full liner rip, etc.–but whichever method you use, make sure to use the same method and at the same distance from the top edge one for the remaining panels.

Support the Film’s Weight

Most installers just leave the bottom half of the film hanging as they apply the top half. The problem with this approach is the film’s weight will slowly stretch it without you noticing until it’s too late. Here’s a simple setup with a tube cut in half and zip-tied onto the scissor lift:

If you dry fit your panels and made registration marks ahead of time, as mentioned in Step #4, you won’t have to worry whether the graphics down low will still be aligned as you apply the top portion.

Site survey and the Wall/Building Questionnaire

The wall itself can also hinder the application because it has special paint that makes it not receptive to adhesive. So when surveying the site, make sure you use our wall/building questionnaire to aid you in determining the correct product(s) for your project.

Using the right application tips and proper setup will help alleviate any challenges you might have when applying a high tack film. If you’re looking for the right film for your next wall wrap, we’ve got you covered from hard-to-stick surfaces like brick, stucco or concrete to flat wall applications.

Get money back on wall wraps! From now until July 31^st, we’re running our Essential Rebate promotion to learn more about what product qualify in your region click the links below.

Get money back on high tack wall films! From now until July 31st, we’re running our Essential Rebate promotion

USA/Canada

Australia/New Zealand

Digital Printing Signage

Printed Decals 101

May 28,2020 / By Arlon Graphics / No Comment

Producing printed decals is how many sign shops get started in the graphics industry. Nonetheless, if you’re just getting started or need a refresher, we worked with our Technical Expert, Louie Calma, to outline the basics of printed decals; from what blade to use to when you should vector vs rendor your project.

Design

First, start with the design of the printed decal. If your decals have letters, consult a letter visibility chart for maximum impact. A rule of thumb is 10 feet viewing distance per inch height of the letter. For example, a 3-inch tall letter will be visible at 30 feet. Also note that if you are using the points (pt) system, 1-inch is equal to 72pt. However, if the sign or the viewer is moving, I would recommend 5 feet per inch with sans serif fonts.

Lettering for printed decals sans vs serif — https://www.sjo.com/readability/https://www.sjo.com/readability

Which blade to use?

Make sure to consult your plotter’s manual for your a suitable blade for your project. In most cases, thicker overlaminates such as ProTec Series 3960 or reflective films require a specific blade. Once you have identified the correct blade for your project, make sure that both the blade and cutting strip are in good condition. Then, adjust the blade depth according to the thickness of your material. If you are cutting intricate shapes such as thin lines or pointed edges, check whether your cutter has a tangential or overcut function.

Check out this HUB post for tips and tricks on cutting and weeding small letters and decals.

Vector or raster?

Louie is a big proponent of favoring vectors over raster images, especially when it comes to cut decals. Of course, it is possible to create printed decals with a raster image by tracing its edges and setting that up as a separate cut layer. However, it’s important to make sure you simplify or smooth the cut path, so you don’t end up with zigzag cuts. It will also be faster because a smooth path is shorter than zigzag.

If you’re running different software brands for RIP and design, always look up the procedure on how to correctly set up a cut path layer. Here’s an article from Roland DGA, The Perfect Setup: File Preparation For Print/Cut Production.

Can I cut through the liner?

Most printed decals are produced by cutting through the liner instead of just the print film, where the liner remains intact. This process involves more than increasing the blade depth and cut force. Doing these two things will cut through the liner, but the decals will also fall out immediately. If this happens, it means that as you’re cutting, some or most of the pinch rollers will have no film to pinch that you will lose registration or worse.

If you must cut through the liner while keeping them intact till the end of the job, there is a cutting process called PerfCut or perforated cut. Rather than cutting a continuous path, the blade will “skip” and leave tiny tabs so that the decals will hold onto the sheet until you pop them out. Each brand will differ on how to set up this process, but here are some online resources:

Which products should I use?

Arlon has a wide selection of products for your decal needs. For decals that are 4 inches tall or less, a film without air egress will suffice. Consider using air-egress films for larger or beginner-friendly decals.

DPF 510 is a typical product used for giveaway printed decals. DPF 4500 is your next choice for medium-term stickers like labels on standard surfaces. You can also consider using DPF 8200 High Tack for surfaces that need a high tack adhesive. Don’t forget to use an overlaminate to prolong the life of outdoor decals. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the print-lam-cut feature of your equipment.

Digital Printing Signage

How to Mount Graphics on Large Substrates

May 15,2020 / By Arlon Graphics / No Comment

How to Mount Graphics on a Large Substrate

In digital printing, UV printers and HP Latex R-Series now can print directly on a substrate, making mounting graphics on large substrates a thing of the past. Yet, not every sign shop will make that type of investment, and the alternative of mounting graphics on large substrates can be a challenge. To help this part of your application process, we’ve created a step-by-step guide on how to mount graphics on large substrates.

Step 1

Set up the laminator so that the rigid substrate is supported from the front and back. I’ll be using the platen of the UV printer (the flat part of the printer where the media rest during printing) to support the substrate as it feeds into the laminator and the table to catch the finished product.

Step 2

Open the nip all the way up and feed the substrate into the laminator in reverse.

You might be wondering: “Why not just use the UV printer to print directly on that 4’X8’ pegboard?” Good question! We didn’t print directly on the board because there is not enough space behind the printer to fit the substrate.

Step 3

Dry fit the graphic on the substrate to make sure that the graphic is positioned correctly relative to the substrate.

Step 4

Place a weight over the graphics and fold about 25% of the graphic’s leading edge.

Step 5

With a liner back slitter such as the YelloTools’ BodyGuard Knife -Teflon, cut a 2” strip hinge and remove the liner strip.

Step 6

Fold the leading edge back onto the substrate and apply the strip hinge with a squeegee.

Step 7

Manually feed the pre-mounted graphic into the laminator until the strip hinge is just past the nip rollers. The UV printer’s platen is only used to support the substrate.

Step 8

Square the substrate with the laminator, close the nip, and peel off the liner below the hinge strip.

Step 9

Run the laminator forward and carefully remove the liner by grabbing it as close to the middle for even tension.

Step 10

Once you reach the end of the substrate, rotate it 180° and feed into the laminator just past the strip hinge.

Step 11

Repeat from step # 9 and apply the remainder of the graphic. Trim excess film.

When mounting graphics for large signs, a little creativity can go a long way. Now that you know the steps, you’re ready to go out and mount those signs.

Signage Wall Applications

Basic Guide to Application Tape

Apr 21,2020 / By Arlon Graphics / 2 Comments

Nowadays, there are endless types of application tapes on the market, and spending time deciding on which one to use can take up valuable install time. To help you speed up the process, we’ve compiled a comprehensive basic guide with everything you need to know about application tape — from the different types to how to choose the right one for your next project.

What is Application Tape?

Application tape (app tape for short) is “a pressure-sensitive tape used to transfer cut vinyl graphics and printed films from their release liners to the application substrate.” Depending on its use, app tapes can be categorized as premask, pre-spacing tape, or transfer tape.

Premask – covers the entire panel of a graphic film and protects during storage, transport, and handling. It also provides extra stiffness to graphics with a liquid laminate instead of a film overlaminate.
Pre-spacing Tape – used to mask cut graphics. It maintains the relative alignment and spacing between the letters and emblems within the same panel.
Transfer Tape – tape for heat transfer graphics commonly used for custom apparel.

Application Tape can be used to apply window graphics when using material such as Arlon's Ever Etched Cal/Cast. — Application Tape can be used to apply window graphics when using material such as Arlon’s Ever Etched Cal/Cast.

Choosing the Right Application Tape

When choosing the right application tape, these are the questions you need to ask:

Is it for pre-masking or pre-spacing?

The premask for UV-inks may be different from other ink types, as well as premasks for liquid laminated graphics vs. film overlaminates. The amount and type of liner exposed will also affect what kind of pre-spacing tape to use. For release liners with air egress, make sure to choose a tape designed to adhere to them. Etched glass films or any graphic with a textured finish require special app tapes.

How will the graphics be stored and transported?

Almost all tapes are okay to be stored for a short period or transporting graphics stacked and flat. However, some graphic providers produce a large batch of graphics and will sit on the shelf for months. Make sure to choose an application tape that will not permanently bond to the graphic over time. Avoid storing the graphics in high heat or prolonged sunlight. For graphics that must be rolled for transport, choose a tape that will adhere well to exposed liners. Always roll the graphics with the masked side out and at least 6 inches in diameter.

Is the release liner easy or hard to remove?

If the graphics have a tight liner release, you may need to use a high tack tape to peel it off the liner. If the graphic is not releasing from the liner, flipping the graphic liner side up and peeling off the liner works most of the time. Always test the cut force before running a cut job and only use enough force for the film to weed well but not cut into the release liner.

Is the application surface low surface energy or textured?

Ultimately, the graphic needs to adhere to the application surface more than the tape adhering to the graphic. So, if you use a high tack app tape, in the case with low surface energy substrates, you might peel off the graphic with the app tape. You can wait and let the adhesive build or assist the adhesion with little heat. One pro tip for paper app tapes is to spray water on its face and let it soak to 20-30 seconds to weaken the tape’s adhesive. For textured substrates, you might be better off with a low or medium tack tape because the graphic’s adhesive will not have enough surface contact to establish excellent adhesion.

Applying App Tape

Application tape is typically applied by hand. However, for large panels, we recommend using a roll-to-roll laminator or lamination table such as the Rollsroller3 or CWT4. When using these tables, make sure that the app tape is applied without tension, so the graphic remains flat and does not peel off the edges.

While It might be tempting to only have a single application tape for all your projects, it’s essential to make sure you’re choosing the right application tape for a successful install. Make sure to consider the tape’s capability in storage, handling, and final application, not just if it will stick on your graphic. Want to learn more vinyl basics? Check out our Basic Guide to Registering Vinyl Graphics

Corporate Digital Printing Signage

COVID-19: Free Downloadable Signs

Mar 31,2020 / By Arlon Graphics / 4 Comments

As we deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, signage is playing a crucial role in keeping communities safe and informed. We understand the challenges businesses are facing, and we are committed to doing our part in assisting in any way we can. Our team has come together to create downloadable signs for you to use that communicate essential information to the public, your customers, or your employees.

All signs are available in high visibility and low ink options as well as English and Spanish. To download the files, click the link below each image group.