Impressions - April 2020 - 28

Digital signs can range from small ones,
like this gas-station price sign, to mega
displays, such as those found in Times
Square or Las Vegas.

technologies, such as eco-solvent, ultraviolet (UV) and latex-based
inks; and the rapid adoption and improvement on the piezoelectric print head.
The printing process is computer controlled, with the image being
designed on a computer and turned into a digital file. The file is then
processed by a raster image processor (RIP) for accurate output on
the desired media. If needed, it then goes to a laminator and is applied or installed to create the final product.
Wide-format printing produces full-color images on media that is
at least 36 inches wide. Ink is fired through multiple print heads -
each consisting of hundreds of nozzles - onto a substrate or media.
These printers typically use piezo-inkjet heads, which work well with
solvent-based, UV-cured or aqueous-based inks.
The last stage before installation is finishing, which includes laminating. This protects prints, adds durability and protects them from
weathering. Laminates are available in a variety of finishes and textures, from matte and semi-gloss to gloss. Finishing is an important
part of any print job, as the type of finish will affect overall cost.
Lamination can be hot or cold. The latter, which is the most popular
in our industry, is pressure sensitive and typically requires time for
the inks to outgas before the process commences. Hot lamination is
considered an encapsulation method and is sealed by the heat from
the laminator's pressure rollers.

Vehicle Wrapping and Vinyls

Vehicle wraps can be used in
vehicle branding or to create an
impact statement. This growing
f ield takes skill in application
and careful material selection.

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26-29_IMP_0420_Signs_Feature 28

Vinyl wrapping - for decorative or branding reasons - is a rapidly
growing segment of the visual-communications industry. According
to ISA's "Navigating the Visual Communications Space," 59% of
wide-format printers tapped this area as the fastest-growing segment
of their business. While the techniques of skillfully applying a wrap
are vital, material selection also plays an important role.
Selecting the correct wrapping material determines longevity, durability and performance. One of the most important factors for
selecting the correct material is identifying the types of elements
with which the material likely will come into contact so that it can
withstand those conditions. Materials include the types of film used,
adhesive and processing/handling.
There are two main types of vinyl film used in the sign, graphics
and visual-communications industry: cast and calendered. The basic ingredients are the same in each product, but the manufacturing
process makes them different.
Cast film is the industry premium. It's thin, durable and more
flexible, allowing it to stretch easily and conform to surfaces. When
heat is applied, there's less shrinkage and it maintains its color. It is
considered ideal for long-term applications, including vehicle wraps
and fleet graphics.
Calendered film is thicker and offers more shrinkage when exposed to heat. But it's easier to handle and more economical. It's
ideal for short- to medium-term applications, such as window and
floor graphics, wall murals and signs.
Adhesive systems primarily focus on the strength required for
removal from a substrate. They are classified based on application
(removable and permanent) and composition (water-based and
solvent-based).
Understanding adhesive types is critical for correctly using them
in any application. Knowing the composition of the adhesive is just

I M P R E S S I O N S M A G . C O M APRIL 2020

3/18/20 8:12 PM

http://www.IMPRESSIONSMAG.COM

Impressions - April 2020

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