If you're in the world of vinyl, you may have come across some unfamiliar terminology. Words like air-egress, slideability, repositionability, Flite, easy-apply, Control, Comply, or Drift may have left you scratching your head. But fear not, we're here to help.
Air-Egress
Let's start with air-egress. This is a technology found in certain vinyl types that makes it easier to release air bubbles when applying graphics to larger surfaces like vehicles or walls.
If you're dealing with large graphics, it's definitely worth investing in an air-egress vinyl. However, things can get a little confusing when it comes to 3M's comply technology, which has three different versions of air-egress technology - Micro, CV3, and Standard. Each version has its own benefits, but they all work by allowing air to escape during application.
Slideabilty/Repositionability
Next up, we have slideability or repositionability. This refers to the vinyl's ability to slide along the surface, allowing you to adjust its position before it becomes tacky. This is particularly useful when working with complex shapes or when you need to line up multiple pieces of vinyl.
TACK [tak]
verb
1. The bond formed between two surfaces. The faster the bond, the higher the tack.
Different vinyl types will have varying initial tack levels, so it's important to find one that suits your installation style.
Uses
So, when would you need these features? Well, if you're working on a large-scale project like a vehicle wrap or wall mural, air-egress vinyl is a must-have. It will save you time and frustration by making the application process much smoother.
Similarly, if you're working with complex shapes or need to make adjustments before the vinyl becomes tacky, slideable and repositionable vinyl will be a lifesaver.
In conclusion, understanding these technical terms can go a long way in helping you choose the right vinyl for your project. It's important to experiment with different types to find what works best for your installation style and the size of the project at hand. Happy vinyl-ing!
Check out our selection of Vinyl from Top Brands like 3M, Arlon, Avery Dennison, Gerber, Lumina by FDC, ContraVision, General Formulations, Mactac, Quick Sign Gold, RTape, and our most affordable offering, ALPHA.
See air-egress and slideability/repositionability in action. Watch the video below.
