TECKWRAP SMT09 Onyx Grey Switzerland Exclusive Distributor Installation Guide
- August 19, 2024
- TECKWRAP
Table of Contents
TECKWRAP SMT09 Onyx Grey Switzerland Exclusive Distributor
TeckWrap Installation Tips & Tricks
A little bit of theory & history:
In the realm of car wrapping, there are two primary production methods for
foils: cast and calendered/hybrid.
Cast Foil
Cast foil is manufactured by melting pigments into a desired shape. This
production method is utilized by reputable brands such as 3M, Avery, Hexis,
Oracal, and KPMF.
Advantages of Cast Foils:
- Thinness : Cast foils are typically very thin, averaging 70-90 microns, which makes them more stretchable and easier to apply.
- Durability : These foils generally offer higher durability compared to other types.
Disadvantages of Cast Foils:
- Finish Quality : Cast foils often suffer from “orange peel” effects, leading to a poorer finish quality.
- Color Range : The color palette available for cast foils is limited.
- Protection : Due to their thinness, cast foils offer minimal protection to the vehicle.
Calendered/Hybrid Foil
Calendered foil is produced by creating a paste of pigments that is then
stretched into shape. Recently, a new production method has been introduced to
create hybrid foils, which combine the properties of both cast and calendered
foils. This innovative technology was pioneered by TeckWrap and has since been
adopted by other brands such as Inozetek.
Advantages of Hybrid Foils:
- Finish Quality : Hybrid foils offer a paint-like finish with minimal orange peel effect and a highly glossy appearance.
- Color Range : They come in a much wider color palette.
- Protection : Being thicker, averaging 120-130 microns, hybrid foils provide better protection for the vehicle and feature mild self-healing properties.
Disadvantages of Hybrid Foils:
- Installation: The thicker material makes the installation process longer and more challenging.
- Durability: Hybrid foils have a shorter lifespan, typically lasting 3-5 years depending on geographical conditions. However, TeckWrap stands out by offering a comprehensive 2-year warranty that covers product defects, in addition to their durability recommendations.
By understanding the differences between these production methods, you can make an informed decision about which type of foil best suits your car wrapping needs.
MATTE & SATINS
The first and easiest type of film we will discuss are the matte and satin finishes. These films are excellent for beginners and experienced installers alike due to their versatile nature and attractive appearance.
Pre-Heating the Foil
One key difference to note is that these hybrid films are thicker than
standard cast films. Due to their thickness, it is necessary to preheat the
foil to a temperature range of 40-50 degrees Celsius (104-122 degrees
Fahrenheit) if you intend to stretch it. Preheating is crucial as it makes the
film more pliable and easier to work with, reducing the risk of tearing or
creasing. The recommended maximum stretch amount for these films is 12%.
Exceeding this limit could compromise the integrity of the film and lead to
installation issues.
Application Process
The application process for matte and satin hybrid films follows the same
basic steps as other foils you may have previously worked with. Begin by
cleaning the surface thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, or contaminants
that could affect adhesion. Next, carefully position the film on the surface,
ensuring it is aligned correctly before starting the application.
Handling High-Tack Adhesive
Because of the high tack of the glue TeckWrap films, it is advisable to avoid
repositioning the vinyl once it has made contact with the car panels. Repeated
sticking and unsticking can cause glue lines, which are visible marks left by
the adhesive. To mitigate this, consider using a tack reducer solution such as
Johnson & Johnson or Triple S by Justin Pate. These products help reduce the
initial tack of the adhesive, making it easier to adjust the film during the
application process. Use a squeegee to smooth out the film, working from the
center outward to eliminate air bubbles and ensure a firm bond. Take your time
with this step to achieve a smooth, professional finish. If you need to
reposition the film, gently lift it and adjust as necessary.
Post-Heating
The most critical step when working with hybrid films is post-heating. Post-
heating is the process of applying heat to the film after installation to set
the adhesive and ensure a strong bond. This step should not be rushed; taking
your time to do it properly is essential for a lasting application. For satin
and matte films, post-heating needs to be done at a temperature range of
100-105 degrees Celsius (212-221 degrees Fahrenheit). Use a heat gun to evenly
apply
Enhancing Durability with Ceramic Coating
To further enhance the durability and appearance of your wrap, we strongly
recommend applying a ceramic coating over TeckWrap films. Ceramic coatings
provide an additional layer of protection, increasing the longevity of the
wrap and enhancing the depth and vibrancy of the colors.
Super Gloss HD Series
The TeckWrap HD series includes all of our gloss and super gloss films, known for their stunning visual appeal and exceptional performance. When working with these foils, it is essential to follow specific procedures to ensure a flawless application and longlasting finish.
Characteristics of HD Series Films
The first thing to keep in mind about the HD series is that these films are
characterized by an aggressive adhesive. This high-tack glue ensures a strong
bond to the surface, but it also requires careful handling during application.
Removing the Protective PET Film
All gloss foils in the HD series come protected with a PET (polyethylene
terephthalate) film. This protection layer prevents the surface from getting
scratched or damaged during handling and transport. It is crucial to remove
this protective film before you begin the application process. Failing to do
so can result in poor adhesion and a suboptimal finish.
Pre-Heating the Foil
Due to the thickness of HD series foils, preheating is necessary, especially
if you plan to stretch the film. Heat the foil to a temperature range of 40-50
degrees Celsius (104-122 degrees Fahrenheit). This preheating makes the vinyl
more pliable, reducing the risk of tearing and making it easier to conform to
complex curves and contours. Remember, the maximum recommended stretch for
these films is 12%. Exceeding this limit can damage the foil and compromise
the quality of the installation.
Handling High-Tack Adhesive
Because of the high tack of the glue used in HD series films, it is advisable
to avoid repositioning the vinyl once it has made contact with the car panels.
Repeated sticking and unsticking can cause glue lines, which are visible marks
left by the adhesive. To mitigate this, consider using a tack reducer solution
such as Johnson & Johnson or Triple S by Justin Pate. These products help
reduce the initial tack of the adhesive, making it easier to adjust the film
during the application process.
Preventing Micro Scratches
To avoid micro scratches on the vinyl surface, it is recommended to lubricate
your squeegee. Lubrication allows the squeegee to glide smoothly over the
film, minimizing the risk of scratching. Additionally, the HD series films
have a slight self-healing property. If you do encounter minor scratches, you
can apply heat or leave the car in the sun, and the scratches will disappear
over time.
Post-Heating the Film
The most critical step in the application process of HD series films is post-
heating. Postheating involves applying heat to the film after it has been
installed to set the adhesive and ensure a secure bond. For gloss HD films,
post-heating should be done at a temperature range of 110-115 degrees Celsius
(230-239 degrees Fahrenheit). Take your time with this step, as rushing it can
lead to lifting and retraction of the film.
Enhancing Durability with Ceramic Coating
To further enhance the durability and appearance of your wrap, we strongly
recommend applying a ceramic coating over TeckWrap films. Ceramic coatings
provide an additional layer of protection, increasing the longevity of the
wrap and enhancing the depth and vibrancy of the colors. By following these
detailed instructions, you can achieve a professional and long-lasting finish
with TeckWrap HD series foils. Take your time, use the right tools and
products, and enjoy the stunning results of your work.
CARE
To keep the TeckWrap Film in its best for the long term, do NOT wash of wax
the wrapped vehicle for a minimum of three days following film installation.
Regular washing and waxing is recommended after this period.
DISCLAIMER
The films mentioned in this bulletin are covered by TeckWrap product warranty
and lim-itation of liability. All TeckWrap products are sold with the
understanding that a buyer has independently determined the suitability of
products for its purpose
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Read User Manual Online (PDF format) >>