How Do I Make The Longest Lasting Printed Sign?

[player]

I would think using an aluminum composite board, a long life cast vinyl and superior UV laminate (ie- Oralfol 3751 + 290). For printing I would want a profile that lays down more ink than others... Let the print dry for 48 hours, and clean the board really well. Use the laminator to apply the image, and burnish the board edges before, and the decal edges after.

Other than that, what can I do to get the most longevity?

 

[TimToad]

First, use a cast media if possible.

Then, use an actual sheet of say .063 or .080 aluminum instead of Alupanel or other composites. It will expand and contract less than a composite like which generally is one of the biggest stressors on a print after UV exposure.

I've attached a few links to some products used for interpretive trail sign markers, zoos, etc.

You could look into getting a print like these:

http://heritagedestination.com/panel-spec-outdoor.aspx

http://www.generalgraphicsinc.com/wayside2.html

 

[SignosaurusRex]

Skip the UV Laminate. Use a couple good spray coats of 1 Shot Speed Dry UV Acrylic Clear (4005 Gloss) on the face and edges. This method has worked well for us for many years.

 

[phototec]

Skip the UV Laminate. Use a couple good spray coats of 1 Shot Speed Dry UV Acrylic Clear (4005 Gloss) on the face and edges. This method has worked well for us for many years.

Ok, are you saying paint over a inkjet printed vinyl with 1 Shot Speed Dry UV Acrylic Clear (4005 Gloss), you not talking about a painted sign, right?

So the 1 Shot Speed Dry UV Acrylic Clear (4005 Gloss) will not harm the vinyl or the eco-sol ink?

Just asking!

 

[player]

I would have to roll it on, not spray.

When applying a 4' x 8' 2ml cast, I would need the lam to give it strength while applying.

 

[SignosaurusRex]

Ok, are you saying paint over a inkjet printed vinyl with 1 Shot Speed Dry UV Acrylic Clear (4005 Gloss), you not talking about a painted sign, right?

So the 1 Shot Speed Dry UV Acrylic Clear (4005 Gloss) will not harm the vinyl or the eco-sol ink?

Just asking!

Yes, right over the printed vinyl. Spraying works best, but it can be rolled on as well with a cheap Wooster TIZ 1/8" thick foam roller.
Using the roller requires a little skill/experience with just how much product to use and final pass(s) pressure. No harm to the vinyl or inks.

 

[SignosaurusRex]

I would have to roll it on, not spray.

When applying a 4' x 8' 2ml cast, I would need the lam to give it strength while applying.

Transfer mask the print before application.

 

[player]

That process seems to be more work than just laminating.

How much life does it grant?

 

[SignosaurusRex]

That process seems to be more work than just laminating.

How much life does it grant?

You asked for the "greatest longevity"... I answered with what has worked best for me. As for "How much life?"... All I can say is I have yet to have a failure in over eight years with eco-sol and over 15 years with aqueous. (Knock on wood)

 

[player]

You asked for the "greatest longevity"... I answered with what has worked best for me. As for "How much life?"... All I can say is I have yet to have a failure in over eight years with eco-sol and over 15 years with aqueous. (Knock on wood)

Nice... Could you tell me more about rolling it on? Does it thin? Do you put on multiple coats? Dry time? Fumes?

 

[Browner]

You could look into getting a print like these:
http://heritagedestination.com/panel-spec-outdoor.aspx
http://www.generalgraphicsinc.com/wayside2.html

These guys were great to deal with: www.izoneimaging.com Everything came EXACTLY as expected.

 

[Craig Sjoquist]

Hire a sign painter that uses hardner & UV clear coat & toss out ya printer.












Hope ya know I say this in jest Because I only hand letter & the fancy modern ways I have no interest in dealing with.

 

[FireSprint.com]

There are two part polyurethane coatings that I know nothing about, but they are said to last for 10-15 years or more.

Might be worth the research. Maybe someone who knows about them will chime in.

 

[2B]

take a look at Anodized Aluminum Printing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paiPG1VWbIc

 

[shoresigns]

First, use a cast media if possible.

Then, use an actual sheet of say .063 or .080 aluminum instead of Alupanel or other composites. It will expand and contract less than a composite like which generally is one of the biggest stressors on a print after UV exposure.

I've attached a few links to some products used for interpretive trail sign markers, zoos, etc.

You could look into getting a print like these:

http://heritagedestination.com/panel-spec-outdoor.aspx

http://www.generalgraphicsinc.com/wayside2.html

Considering the name they're using for their signs, it sounds like Heritage Destination probably gets their prints done through Fossil Industries. http://fossilgraphics.com/

 

[TimToad]

Shoreline,

I was just trying to illustrate examples of HPL High Pressure Laminate panels, not recommend a particular supplier of them.

Fossil Industries is no doubt a leader in that sector.