Support

Does ORAFOL produce an anti-graffiti over-laminate? If so, how should the sign be cleaned if it does get vandalized with marker or spray paint?

Yes, ORAFOL manufactures Oraguard® 240 Anti-Graffiti film. This can be used in combination with most Orajet® materials for flat signage applications. Cleaning Steps: 1. Try to remove the contaminants with a citrus-based degreaser and wipe dry with a clean rag. 2. Rinse the surface with a detergent and water mixture and wipe dry with a clean rag. 3. If steps one and two do not work, try wiping the surface with a rag soaked with Naphtha. (Naphtha can be purchased at most paint or home improvement stores.) 4. Immediately rinse the surface with a detergent and water mixture and wipe dry with a clean rag.

Should I apply wax or polish to help protect ORACAL Series 970RA matte colors and Series 975 Premium Structure Cast materials?

ORAFOL does not recommend applying any type of wax or polish to its matte finish or textured wrapping materials. The use of these protective coatings can actually cause an undesired hazy finish on the surface of the material. For more information and helpful advice, please see the Care and Maintenance of Vinyl Vehicle Graphics practical information flyer.

I live in Southern California and have experienced occassions where vehicles I’ve wrapped form a rust-like appearance on the face of the graphic. What causes this condition?

While we can’t say for sure without proper samples and photographs of the actual vehicle, you’re probably seeing the result of “acid rain” or “fallout”, which we believe is caused by industrial pollutants that condense on the films surface in the form of dew when vehicles are left in the elements. Please see the Dealing with Fallout practical information flyer for more information.

Does ORAFOL recommend any of its products for stainless steel tank applications?

Due to the wide variety of stainless steel types and gauges, ORAFOL does not recommend or warranty its products when applied to stainless steel surfaces. For further information please contact ORAFOL product technical support.

I live in a colder region of the United States, and am having problems with my vehicle wraps popping and lifting the day after I’ve finished the installation. What might I be doing wrong?

For best application results, ORACAL® and ORAJET® wrapping films should be applied in a controlled environment when the surface and ambient temperatures are between 65°-75°F. Colder temperatures will result in the material feeling more rigid and the adhesive less tacky. Warmer temperatures will result in the material feeling more aggressive and pliable. Newly applied graphics should remain in the application environment for at least 24 hours to promote uniform adhesion characteristics. During this 24 hour period you should periodically apply multiple cycles of heat and pressure over the potential problematic areas of the wrap. This will allow you to change the material’s flat memory to the new curved memory and allows the graphic to stay put. This should be done anywhere from 3-6 times if not more during this 24 hour period. The worst thing you can do is send the vehicle away with the customer immediately after you have completed the initial installation. A significant change in temperature should always be avoided during the first 24 hours after application is complete, as this may result in the material lifting or popping up in recesses and other complex curved areas.

I have applied a decal using ORAJET® vinyl to my car window. How do I remove this when I am finished with it?

When the decal is no longer desired on your vehicle window, just simply apply heat to the decal using a heat gun. Hold the heat gun 6-9″ away from the decal dispersing the heat evenly over the surface of the decal for about 10-15 seconds. Peel up an edge of the decal and slowly pull back until the graphic is removed. Wipe away any residue left behind with Isopropyl Alcohol and a clean rag.

Is ORACAL® Series 8300 suitable for use on vehicle headlights and taillights?

No, ORAFOL assumes no liability for the possible damage that may be caused upon removal of its Series 8300 material from vehicle headlights and taillights. ORACAL® Series 8300 is designed for permanent, durable, internally illuminated signs and window graphics. ORACAL® 8300 is thermal print compatible and suitable for both wet and dry application. This material also offers impressive cutting and weeding properties.

Will ORACAL® Series 351 polyster chrome vinyl hold up on a vehicle body graphic?

ORACAL® Series 351 and 352 will last up to two years when properly applied and maintained on a vehicle. Since these are metallized films, these films are more typically used for short-term decorative applications.

What does ORAFOL recommend when performing a wet application with its products?

Wet applications are typically recommended for large surface applications on glass. Wet applications should only be done in ambient temperature environments of at least +60° F. For wet applications, ORAFOL recommends using a medium-tack application tape. After the application fluid has had ample time to dry, remove the application tape carefully at a 180° angle. Newly applied graphics should remain in the application environment for at least 24 hours to promote uniform adhesion characteristics and allow any residual moisture to evaporate. (Recommended ingredients for wet application fluid: one tsp. of traditional Joy® or Dawn® dish detergent to one quart of water. Detergent should not contain moisturizers, lotions, or bleaching agents.) Wet applications are not recommended or warranted when applying material with dispersion water-based adhesive systems, ORACAL® Metallic films, ORALITE®/Reflexite® series films, CommandForm™ or RapidAir® technology. Windex® or other glass and surface cleaners should never be used as an application fluid. Contact ORAFOL Product Technical Support for further information.

How long should I wait before applying ORAFOL materials over One Shot® enamel paints on MDO board?

ORAFOL materials may be applied directly to One Shot® enamel paints when proper outgassing guidelines are followed. One Shot® recommends a (minimum) of four days at 60° F with proper air circulation to allow for proper paint outgassing. Please allow several more days if the ORAFOL film is printed and laminated. Both ORAFOL and One Shotۤ® recommend performing a test application prior to completing the intended job. Please contact ORAFOL Technical Support at techsupport-americas@orafol.com for further testing and outgassing procedures. (Please note that the paint curing process may take up to 30 days)

I hear it may take anywhere from 3-4 weeks for paint to cure on painted MDO board. Do you have any suggestions on bypassing this?

Unfortunately the paint curing process is very important for a successful vinyl application. If this is a substrate that is used on a regular basis, it may be beneficial to keep a few extra painted boards in stock that have had plenty of cure time. The idea is to have these in stock and ready to go for a successful and worry free vinyl application.

Is it ok to apply my ORAFOL vinyl directly to pre-primed MDO boards?

This would not be a good idea. The surfaces to which your ORAFOL vinyl films will be applied must be smooth, non-porous and thoroughly clean from dust, grease, or any contamination. Primer and flat paints are too porous of a coating and would collect dirt and moisture resulting in poor adhesion between the adhesive vinyl and the substrate. A smooth, properly cured, glossy exterior rated enamel coating would be ideal for vinyl application.

Can I apply pressure-sensitive films over latex painted surfaces?

Be very cautious when applying vinyl films to flat finish latex painted surfaces. Heavily tinted latex paints contain surfactants (soap-like chemicals) that leach onto the surface throughout its life, causing adhesive failure. Latex paints also contain plasticizers which can migrate to the adhesives in many pressure sensitive films, also causing failure. For exterior vinyl applications over a painted surface, we recommend the use of oil-based gloss enamel, or acrylic gloss enamel coatings. For interior vinyl applications over latex painted surfaces, we would recommend an eggshell or satin finish. Surfaces which have been recently painted, always allow at least 3 weeks curing time.

Can ORAJET® 1663 adhere to clean concrete?

Series 1663 can only adhere to smooth, sealed concrete surfaces. We do not recommend applying this product to porous concrete, asphalt, tile with wide grout lines, or masonry surfaces.

Can ORACAL® 751 High Performance Cast be applied to flexible substrates such as awnings?

Yes. Depending on the material that the awning is made of, ORACAL® Series 751 is often a good choice due to its conformability and durability. Be sure to watch out for awnings that contain waterproofing compounds or porous or textured surfaces, as these can retard adhesion. Always perform a 24-hour adhesive test on the actual substrate prior to completing the final installation.

What is the best cleaning solution to use for prepping substrates prior to application with ORAFOL films?

IPA (isopropyl alcohol) is generally recommended unless the substrate manufacturer states that there is an incompatability. Caution: many cleaning agents can leave a residue that either prevents vinyl adhesion or attacks the vinyl adhesive, such as Windex® and other glass or surface cleaners, Rapid Prep®, and degreasers.

What should I use if IPA (isopropyl alcohol) has been used to clean glass and there still seems to be a surface residue preventing vinyl adhesion?

We have found that Bon Ami® glass cleaner should remove any chemical residues left behind by other glass cleaners.

Which kind of ORAFOL films are suitable for making decals for automobiles?

ORAFOL offers a wide range of graphic marking films and digital media that are suitable for automotive decals. While you can obtain more specific application recommendations in the product section of our website, as a general rule we recommend the use of films with a solvent-based adhesive for automotive use. The solvent adhesive will last much longer when exposed to changing surface temperatures, chemicals and mild solvents. Also, our cast films tend to be more conformable and durable for demanding longer-term applications.

What is the best way to remove my wall decal (ORACAL® 631 Exhibition Cal) appropriately without damaging it so that I can use it again?

ORACAL® 631 can be removed from your latex painted wall by simply peeling up an edge of the graphic with your fingernail and slowly peeling it from the surface. Unfortunately, chances are the graphic will become distorted upon removal, and will not adhere to the wall very well when reapplied in another location.

Does ORAFOL make floor graphic films?

Yes. ORAJET® Series 1663 is specifically engineered for floor graphics printed with solvent inkjet printers. For durability and anti-skid properties we recommend combining this product with ORAGUARD® Series 250AS Laminating Film or ORAGUARD® Series 255AS(High Traffic Load)Laminating Film. Series 1663 can adhere to most smooth, sealed surfaces. We do not recommend applying this product to porous concrete, asphalt or masonry surfaces.

What causes vinyl to bubble when applied to polycarbonate? How do I prevent this from happening?

Polycarbonate outgases for a period of time after manufacuring, which can cause bubbles in your vinyl. To prevent this, remove the protecting film as soon as possible and allow the polycarbonate to outgas naturally for at least 24 hours before applying the vinyl (longer if possible). Where practical polycarbonate should be baked 4-24 hours at 250° in an air-circulating oven before applying pressure sensitive vinyls. In some applications, flaming can be used. In all cases, however, see your manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines.

I am having trouble with my ORACAL® 631 releasing from the liner onto the application tape. What can I do to improve this?

There could be a couple of things happening with this situation. First check your vinyl plotter settings to make sure you aren’t cutting too deep into the release liner. If the silicone layer portion of the release liner is penetrated by the plotter blade it can cause the adhesive to migrate into the cut line. This creates an undesired bond between the release liner and the vinyl graphic. If this is consistent from one color to another, you may consider reducing the cut depth/pressure setting on the plotter. The idea should be to have the plotter blade cut through the face film and adhesive layers and barely score the surface of the silicone layer portion of the release liner. After applying application tape, place the graphic face down on a rigid table top so you are viewing the back of the release liner. Apply pressure with the squeegee back and forth several time over the back of the release liner. This will help push the adhesive out of the cut line and also create a stronger bond between the vinyl graphic and the application tape. It can be difficult to pull the graphic from the release liner, so it may be easier to remove the release liner from the graphic while the graphic is face down on a rigid table top. It is also important to use a high tack application tape such as ORATAPE® HT55 which was designed specifically for use with ORACAL® 631. If you need further assistance with troubleshooting please contact ORAFOL Product Technical Support directly.

Can ORACAL® graphic marking films vary in color from lot number to lot number?

Yes, for graphic applications of the same color on a single substrate, ORAFOL recommends using material from the same lot number. If materials from different lot numbers have to be used, the user must check prior to application whether any differences between the lot numbers will affect processing of the films and/or impair the final result.

At what temperature do I store my rolls of ORAFOL materials? Do temperature variations affect the vinyl film while still on the roll?

The self-adhesive products ORACAL®, ORAJET®, ORAGUARD®, ORABOND®, ORALITE®, Reflexite® and ORAMOUNT® are supplied in rolls and should at all times be stored either suspended or standing on end on the roll blocks provided, and never lying on the material's side. For storage and processing they should be kept in a cool dry place protected from sunlight. Relative air humidity between 50% and 60% and temperature between + 64°F and 72°F should be ensured. Direct sunlight, storage beside radiators, etc. should be avoided. Please observe the shelf life instructions contained in the technical data sheet available for each product.

Are there specific color profiles I should be using with ORAJET® materials?

Yes, make sure to load the correct media profile for your job, based on your specific combination of media, ink, printer and RIP software. Each series of ORAJET® digital media requires different print and RIP software parameter settings due to its individual qualities, such as thickness of the adhesive layer and face film. Download a wide selection of FREE color profiles here.

Will my printed ORAJET® materials be warranted when using a liquid laminate to protect my prints instead of ORAGUARD® laminating materials?

No warranty will apply when combining any ORAFOL films with other manufacturers of pressure sensitive adhesive graphic marking films or liquid laminate coatings.

Does ORAFOL offer custom colors? Can you match a Pantone color?

ORAFOL can produce custom colors for most products, however there are minimum order requirements and possibly additional costs based on order volume. For specific inquiries, please contact your respective ORAFOL Americas Territory Sales Manager.

What type of laminate should I use for my prints on ORAJET® media?

ORAGUARD® laminating films are designed to match specific ORAJET® digital media. For specific recommendations, refer to the Digital Inkjet Media Selection Guide. When using solvent inks, we recommended allowing a minimum of 24 to 48 hours for the ink to cure before laminating. Failure to follow this practice can cause bubbles, delamination, discoloration, shrinkage and difficult application due to increased adhesive properties.

Can environmental conditions affect vinyl releasing from a liner?

All cut, weed, mask and release operations are subject to environmental conditions. High humidity and heat conditions can make application more difficult. In these cases a higher tack application tape(such as ORATAPE® HT55)may help. If plotted graphics are not weeded quickly after production, adhesive may flow into the cut line, making weeding more difficult.

I want to know if ORAFOL films contain acid because I want to use the vinyl for my scrapbooking projects.

No, ORAFOL films do not contain acid. They will work great for your scrapbook projects.

Does ORAFOL offer stencil mask films? If so, are any of them translucent?

Yes, ORAFOL Americas offers 4 different stencil mask films…ORAMASK® 810, 810S, 811, and 813. ORAMASK® 810 is a conformable stencil film that is useful for spraying and painting on uneven surfaces. It comes in a transparent grey color. ORAMASK® 810S has a solvent-based adhesive that is ideal for multi-color or solvent-based paints. It is highly conformable and comes in transparent grey. ORAMASK® 811 is a rigid paint mask film for painting or spraying on even surfaces that is available in opaque white. Lastly, ORAMASK® 813 is a translucent rigid stencil film for painting or spraying on even surface areas that is available in translucent blue.

Can I clear-coat ORAFOL vinyl graphics?

Clear-coating materials such as liquid laminate may provide additional protection for vinyl graphics, but caution should be used because solvents in some varnishes can attack the vinyl and/or adhesive, causing failure. When in doubt, use the matched ORAGUARD® cold laminating films.

Can I print on ORACAL® brand films with a thermal-transfer printer?

Many ORACAL® plotter films including Series 651 and Series 751 are engineered to perform well with thermal-transfer printers.

What ORAFOL media can be used with dye and/or pigmented inks?

ORAFOL does not currently market films designed for use with water-based ink sets.

What pressure should I have my vinyl cutter set on when plotting ORACAL® vinyl films?

There are many different types of plotters in use. You should run a test to ensure that your blade pressure and speed are properly adjusted for ORAFOL's higher density films. When testing different pressure and speed settings, look for how easy the graphic weeds, making sure not to cut too deep. Also, make sure that the vinyl cleanly releases from the liner using transfer tape. If cut too deep, the vinyl will be difficult to release from the liner, and may cause tearing along the edge of the cut.

What application tape do you suggest when using ORACAL® plotter films?

We recommend a high tack application tape, such as ORATAPE® HT55 for most of our plotter films. The relationship between the release liner and the vinyl is different for every vinyl manufacturer. ORAFOL’s vinyl has a tight liner adhesion. The tight liner adhesion improves the weedability of the vinyl. If what you’re using works for you, continue to use it. Other tips we suggest include squeegeeing on the reverse side (the back of the liner) and pulling the release liner away with the application tape side down.

Will ORACAL® films work on my plotter?

Check the technical specifications for the ORACAL® Series that you are interested in purchasing to see if it is compatible with your brand of plotter. You may also want to run a test cut to ensure that your blade weight is properly adjusted for ORAFOL’s higher density.

Are ORAFOL's films enamel receptive?

Many enamel coatings, as well as airbrush paints, bond well to ORAFOL films, but we recommend testing your specific brand of paint. KRYLON® enamel paints tend to work very well. One Shot® paints require the use of One Shot® Vinyl Primer.

Do you have any authorized distributors in India?

ORAFOL America’s market area includes the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Latin America and the Caribbean. India and other international markets outside of our market area are served by ORAFOL EMEA. You can contact them here.

I would like to know if there are any suppliers in Canada where I can purchase ORAFOL products.

We have distributors located throughout Canada. You can find distributor contact information using our distributor map.