Automotive wrap is a flexible material made from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) or Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) that is specifically designed for automotive surfaces. Unlike paint, vinyl wrap is removable, so you can change the look whenever you want without affecting the original surface. Continue reading to learn more about the different types and properties.
Cast Vinyl
Cast vinyl is named for the process that it goes through during manufacturing. Cast vinyl starts as a liquid PVC and then is poured onto a casting sheet to the appropriate thickness, typically 1.2 to 2 mils thick. The cast then travels through a series of ovens where the liquid becomes a solid thin film, eventually applying adhesive and liner to the thin film to become a cast media. Cast vinyl is more pliable, will stretch more, and conform to more surfaces. It's often referred to as high performance or premium vinyl because of its thickness. Cast final is a premium or more expensive vinyl because of these characteristics and the additional cost to manufacture. You can expect cast films to last up to seven years outdoors.
Calendar Vinyl
Calendared vinyl, also named for the manufacturing method, starts as a solid PVC and goes through a series of heated rollers, also known as calendars. They use pressure to flatten out PVC to the desired thickness, usually 2.5 to 6 mils thick, and then it's cooled to retain the thickness. That manufacturing process is why calendar vinyl shrinks over time. You see, PVC wants to return to its original shape, and variations in weather conditions can speed that process up over time. Calendared vinyl is also referred to as intermediate films. These films are less durable than cast and typically last up to three to six years outdoors and are a more cost-effective solution than the more expensive premium cast files.
Paint Protection Film
Paint protection film (PPF), also known as clear bra or paint film, is a polyurethane film applied to the painted surfaces of automobiles to protect them from damage caused by stone chips, bug splatters, minor abrasions, and other environmental hazards. PPF is typically made from a Thermoplastic Polyurethan (TPU) material. Historically this material has been transparent and flexible, allowing it to conform to the contours of the vehicle's surface. The process involves extruding the polyurethane material into thin sheets of varying thicknesses, typically ranging from 6 to 8 mils. PPF provides a protective barrier against stone chips, road debris, and other objects that can cause scratches or dents in the paint. Some PPFs have self-healing properties, which means that minor scratches and swirl marks can disappear over time when exposed to heat or sunlight. PPF can last up to 10 years. With recent advancements in production PPF has acquire color change properties similar to PVC vinyl wrap giving the consumer the durability of PPF and the color change capability of vinyl wrap. These properties typically place PPF in the premium or more expensive class.
