General Formulations GF830 Automark vs Arlon SLX+

[TopFliteGraphics]

Anybody have experience with these two materials? Trying to decide which on to try out and google reviews are no help. I have a coupe of Sprinter vans to wrap for a good client and both of these seem to be getting good reviews but no side by side comparisons are available

 

[rjssigns]

Can't help with a comparison but I like the SLX+. Installer is really happy with it as well compared to 6000xrp. He said spots where it took a lot of heat and finesse for the 6000xrp he just works the SLX+ into place and moves on. Prints much better than the 6000 as well.

 

[CanuckSigns]

The automark is a calendered vinyl, and the Arlon is cast. We use automark for spot graphics on vehicles, but I wouldn't use it to wrap anything, especially not for a good client.

I dont wrap, but my installer loves the SLX+, he said it's the closest to 3M 180 he has used.

 

[TopFliteGraphics]

The automark is a calendered vinyl, and the Arlon is cast. We use automark for spot graphics on vehicles, but I wouldn't use it to wrap anything, especially not for a good client.

I dont wrap, but my installer loves the SLX+, he said it's the closest to 3M 180 he has used.

Actually, I was asking about the new 830 AutoMark which is a cast material as well. I use the GF230 AutoMark for partial wraps and love the way it prints and is very easy to apply especially for a calendared material. I really haven't seen any reviews on the yet.

 

[FCD]

Haven’t tried gf830, but have done plenty of wraps with SLX+. Arlon SLX+ is closer to Avery 1105 in my opinion based on initial tack and stretchability. Requires a little more heat to conform than 1105 I feel like. Holds nicely in deep channels. It’s a Great choice for wrapping.

 

[Notarealsignguy]

Go with the SLX+. The tack/initial adhesion is good but still easy to reposition. That's as best as I can describe it. Works good for print/cut too.

 

[marsuni]

After using Arlon SLX, never used other cast material!!!
Wrapping time in half, excellent printing on EPSON SC80600, great endurance in the weather of GREECE and of course great removability as well!!!

 

[Tim de Beir]

Arlon stays in deep channels when applied correctly, there’s also a bond layer between adhesive and vinyl that’s why material will not lift in recesses

 

[JamesLam]

Switched to the Arlon SLX+ as 3M was dealing with production and supply shortages. I have to say for a newb such as myself I found it much easier to work with and the outputs where flawless.

 

[TopFliteGraphics]

Thanks everyone for your replies. Went ahead and ordered some SLX+.

 

[ProColorGraphics]

The main complaints I have seen, haven't used either myself, is that Arlon leaves most of the glue behind during removal.

 

[rjssigns]

The main complaints I have seen, haven't used either myself, is that Arlon leaves most of the glue behind during removal.

Hmmm...too soon to tell for us. Most of the stuff that gets removed has been wrecked so the body shop removes it.
I'll ask (if I remember) the next time I'm making replacement panels.

 

[Kentucky Wraps]

We're testing the FG 830 to replace 3M. It's their CAST vinyl... not calendered.
So far... so good.

 

[LarryB]

We only use Arlon SLX+ with 3220 gloss laminate and love it. Make sure you post heat after application. Just as good as 3M and much cheaper.

 

[2B]

Also a big fan of SLX+

 

[Notarealsignguy]

GF830 says cut lettering is not something that is recommended as film will lift. Just something to keep in mind on that vs SLX+
If it cut lettering won't stay down, what will happen on edges?

 

[signheremd]

GF830 says cut lettering is not something that is recommended as film will lift. Just something to keep in mind on that vs SLX+
If it cut lettering won't stay down, what will happen on edges?

The edges stay down just fine. Individual letters tend to move on the wax paper and then the transfer mask will pull them up before you post form heat them. We have used Arlon SLX for several years and love. Laminated, you don't use any transfer mask and it lays beautifully. I will agree that it can leave move adhesive than the 3M - especially if you go crazy on post form heating. It does not lift along edges on partial wraps. Very conformable. Highly recommend it.