TYPE II – Super Engineering Grade

Application

Nikkalite^® SEG 15000 Series retro-reflective sheeting is coated with pressure sensitive (PS) adhesive that, when applied at room temperature of 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) is easy to handle and apply. SEG is bonded to the sign substrate by application of pressure with a hand roller, a manual roller applicator or power squeegee roller applicator.

Aluminum plate, epoxy powder or backed melamine painted panel normally provide good adhesion properties for retro-reflective sheeting. The sheeting does not adhere well to some types of air drying paints, therefore, before applying to painted surfaces care should be taken to test the surface.

Plastics that are being used for the first time should be tested to determine whether the sheeting will perform well by exposing a test specimen at 70°C (158°F) for three hours to check bubbles causing out-gassing from plastic and by exposing a test specimen outdoors facing south at 45° (in the southern hemisphere, north facing 45°) for at least three months to check adhesion strength to the substrate.

GRAPHIC CUTTING

Friction or sprocket driven rotary plotters, flat bed plotters or craft type cutting knives are all suitable for cutting 15000 Series SEG materials. The material must be allowed to condition, out of its box and correctly supported, ideally in a room with an ambient temperature of 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). If the entire area cannot be heated to 18°C (64°F) or above, use some form of safe heating to provide warm air onto the working area.

STORAGE

Retro-reflective sheeting should be stored between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), ideally with a relative humidity of 30% to 60%, and out of direct sunlight. Store full and open rolls horizontally, above the floor, in the carton as they were supplied and suspended on the plastic supports, or suspended through the core with a suitable bar. Do not leave full or open rolls of material resting on hard surface; this may cause bruising to 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) reflective material, which may not be seen until exposed to a light source. Do not stand full or part rolls vertically on their end. Retro-reflective sheeting should be used within one year after purchased.

CLEANING/MAINTENANCE

During its lifetime the sign may require cleaning at some stage. The sign will probably have sand/grit within the surface dirt; therefore it is recommended that a low-pressure flow of water is used to help remove this loose dirt and sand/grit from the sign first. Never use a strong jet of water. Rubbing the sand/grit into the sign during the cleaning procedure may cause irreparable damage to the sign material. Therefore, care must be taken during the cleaning process. A small solution of a mild detergent in clean warm water is recommended for cleaning the material surface. The detergent and cloth must be non-abrasive, free of any strong aromatic solvents or alcohols and be chemically neutral. Rinse the whole area thoroughly after washing and allow drying naturally or using a lint free cloth. Tar or similar deposits can be removed by a light application of turpentine, following with the washing instructions above.