Working with PVC Shrink Films

Working with PVC Shrink Films

Handling and Storage:

• Store at ambient room temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Do not expose the film to temperatures over 115 Fahrenheit for extended time.
• Store in original plastic sleeve and carton. If no carton, cover with black plastic to avoid yellowing.
• Do not expose to humidity over 65%.

Printer Heater Settings:

Preferred heat settings:
Pre: 36c (97f)
Print: 36c (97f)
Post: 46c (114f)

Cure Time:

• Cure time is very important for the PVC shrink films. Printer manufacturers recommend a 24-hour cure time before handling and processing prints. Because the ink solvent carrier softens the PVC film it is very important to cure it properly.

• If you peel the film from the liner before it is completely cured the images will severely wrinkle as it finishes curing. We recommend an overnight cure time.

• Do not cure on a roll. Separate the prints and allow image exposure to air.

     Minimum Cure time for 8507:  4-6 hours
     Minimum Cure time for 8514:  4-6 hours
     Minimum Cure time for 8527:  6-8 hours
    

Removing from the liner:

The PVC shrink film is the most difficult product to manufacture that we have. It is a fine balance between holding on to the liner and falling off. Cut shrink images larger than print area. Start the peel in a corner. When peeling, best practice is to peel briskly over itself. Trim to size leaving a narrow strip of clear film on the bottom and a 1-2” clear strip on top. This allows for trimming after shrunk on the container.

Shrink temperature:

Best practice for any shrink film is a hot air tunnel, Steam cabinet or hot water bath.

The films will start shrinking around 170 f. Optimum shrink temperature is 200 f.

Download PVC Shrink Films Tech. Sheet Here

Eco-Solvent Package Prototyping Solution.
Prototyping & Proofing Films,
Inkjet Media Guide.