Applying large printed decals

[FrankieTeardrop]

Hello, I never had issues with this before but I'm applying large laminated print decals of 3m controltac vinyl to the sides of vans & I'm having issues with the deep body lines of the van. The decals are roughly 3'x5' & the problem is that the air is not escaping from under the vinyl. Before I had a printer I used to order the decals from a wholesale place & I remember the vinyl having a noticeable grid pattern & seemed a little thicker & the bubbles would just push right out. Am I using the wrong vinyl or should I wet apply? I had done a couple of these vans already & the vinyl is bubbling back up from that body line. I heated up the vinyl a lot with the heat gun but I can't tell if I hit the 200 degree mark to relax it.

 

[john1]

I believe the adhesive your wanting that has air channels is Comply adhesive.

http://www.3m.com/product/information/Controltac-Plus-Graphic-Film-Comply-Performance.html

I just started to get into 3M films so this is my best help. I just know when i use IJ35 the IJ35-C has air channels and the -C means comply ahesive

 

[phototec]

Two things, yes it sounds like you are using the wrong media, should be using 3M Controltac Plus Graphic Film with Comply, special channels allow trapped air to escape, which reduces air bubbles that typically occur as large format graphics are installed.

And you can get a Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer with Laser for $39.99 that will help you measure the temperature.

http://www.harborfreight.com/non-contact-laser-thermometer-96451.html

 

[FrankieTeardrop]

Right on, thanks! I've been wanting one of those thermometers so I'll get right on that. I just figured controltac was the stuff but I guess there IS something better suited for trying to apply in those channels.

 

[thewvsignguy]

Are the prints you received from the wholesaler laminated? Are you trying to install the graphics you printed without a laminate? I'm sure without a laminate and the air channels it's going to be a pain to install.

 

[FrankieTeardrop]

Yep, they were laminated & the air bubbles would just get trapped underneath.

 

[thewvsignguy]

If you don't mind what material did you print on and what laminate did you use?

 

[FrankieTeardrop]

It was 3m controltac graphic marking systems & not sure of the laminate... Can that be a factor as well?

 

[FrankieTeardrop]

Sorry, just looking on the backing paper of an old unused print & that's all is says...

 

[FrankieTeardrop]

Yeah, I just sent them a question about it. Thanks for the info! I need to find out what type to get since I want to print these here now.