Common outdoor applications such as overlays, nameplates, and membrane switches need to have protection from the abuse of the outdoor environment. Exposure to heat, UV light, and moisture can lead to color changes of printed graphics, surface crazing, and embrittlement. Failure to use a film suitable to this environment can result in product failures, warranty expenses, and damage to brand reputation.
ProTek® Clear Weatherable Hard Coated Polyester is the film of choice for outdoor applications. The heat stabilized polyester film has a protective hard coat that resists harmful sunlight and condensation that typically destroys film and fades inks. The film has been certified for 2000 hours of simulated weathering in a Xenon Arc Chamber. The testing is conducted by exposing the film to controlled cycles of intense light, heat, and simulated rain spray. This accelerated test yields the equivalent of approximately 2 to 3 years of outdoor exposure in an environment like Florida or Arizona and a 1.1 Yellowness Index Value.
In addition to the weatherable properties, ProTek® Clear Weatherable Hard Coated Polyester has all the benefits of a standard hardcoat including:
- High chemical resistance to common household and industrial chemicals
- Excellent scratch and abrasion resistance with a pencil hardness of 2H
- Ease of die cutting and embossing
- Excellent printability
ProTek® Clear Weatherable Hard Coated Polyester is used commonly in applications such as overlays, nameplates, membrane switches, control panels, and durable labels. For more information contact Tekra at 1-800-448-3572, contact us or visit our product page for a summary sheet and data sheet.