posted
Is there a certain brand of vinyl that will stick well to plastic hardhats? Also what method to prep the hats for lettering.
Thank you.
-------------------- Lee & Paula Iverson United Graphics Sign Co. Kingsford, MI piverson@chartermi.net Posts: 30 | From: Kingsford, MI USA | Registered: Jul 1999
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posted
I've been using Gerber's new Permagrip vinyl on applications where peeling is a concern. It has a very aggressive adhesive, kind of like what SignGold has. I think it only comes in white for now. I Edge print the color on.
posted
I have been told that any paint or abrasion of the surface of a hardhat, voids its safety certification. Perhaps this is just a Canadian issue. I am not sure. If you are doing larger quantities it would be a good idea to check with occupational safety and find out what is allowed.
Ivan Allan
-------------------- Ivan Allan Eye Signs SK Canada
"One's first step in wisdom is to question everything" Posts: 102 | From: Saskatchewan, Canada | Registered: Jun 1999
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Another thing you should try is a torch. Just lightly go over the areA with a propane torch, I'm not sure what it does but it does work. I use this Technique on just about all plastic materials, lIke body side moldings, and Life Rings, it's amazing how well the vinyl sticks afterwards. Be careful with it, don't stay in one area, keep the torch moving.
[ January 13, 2003, 01:58 PM: Message edited by: Neil D. Butler ]
-------------------- "Keep Positive"
SIGNS1st. Neil Butler Paradise, NF Posts: 6277 | From: St. John's NF Canada | Registered: Mar 1999
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posted
That torch thing Neil mentioned sounds like a Red Green thing to do, but that is exactly what is recommended by at least one decal company before applying vinyl sticky stuff to hard hats.
-------------------- Jeff Ogden 8727 NE 68 Terr. Gainesville FL, 32609 Posts: 2138 | From: 8827 NE 68 Terr Gainesville Fl 32609 | Registered: Aug 2002
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posted
Thank you for all the quick replys. We appreciate it.
-------------------- Lee & Paula Iverson United Graphics Sign Co. Kingsford, MI piverson@chartermi.net Posts: 30 | From: Kingsford, MI USA | Registered: Jul 1999
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posted
The torch burns of the migritory polymers...sounds like b.s. I know but thats what it's doing...the only "paint" that will stick (and only after you "flame it") is Unipol (screen ink) it is designed for the material ...it's also very expensive.
Hope this helps!
-------------------- "Werks fer me...it'll werk fer you"
posted
This is what Ivan was referring to. It's an excerpt from the Canadian Standards Association FAQ on hardhats.
What effect do heat and solar radiation have on a hard hat? Our standard advises against leaving a hard hat on the dashboard of a vehicle or any place where the heat of the sun may be intensified as it passes through glass. Similarly, protectors should not be placed on or near sources of heat (for example, on a radiator). Exposure to temperatures over 50° C will cause the shell of the hard hat to degrade over time, significantly reducing its useful life and possibly causing the shell to completely fail when hit.
Why does the standard advise against applying paint, stickers, decals, and appliqués? The chemicals in paints, solvents, and adhesives may chemically react with the plastic in the shell and cause localized weakness. Before applying any of these, you should check with the hat manufacturer to ensure that the chemicals will not harm the plastic. In addition, paint and stickers may cover over cracks that might otherwise be visible upon inspection. A hard hat with visible cracks anywhere on the shell should be replaced immediately. Some stickers and decals have been found also to concentrate the radiant energy of the sun and create "hot spots" on the shell. These "hot spots" may cause weakness in the plastic below. Please note: Some manufacturers do make hard hats that incorporate a company logo or name onto or into the shell. This is part of a custom manufacturing process intended to ensure that the hard hat continues to exceed performance requirements in the CSA standard. Check with the manufacturer for assurance that the performance certification is maintained when these special processes are applied.
posted
Diane...I understand the concern for peoples safety...but god help us we should be trusted to keep ourselves safe.
When I speak of "flaming" I'm talking about the eqivilent of taking that same torch and running it down your arm slow enough to burn the hair off it but fast enough not to burn your skin.
This process will in no way damage the helmet nor threaten anyones life...not in the U.S. and not in Canada.
-------------------- "Werks fer me...it'll werk fer you"
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