About Materials
The reason thick graphic decals are great in karting is that
they can withstand getting a tire rubbed across them in a close
battle, and not tear or rub off. In addition to this, it
is important to use High Tack adhesives to stick to the polypropylene
bodywork. Finally, the best vinyl materials are flexible
and stretch to conform to the shape of the body parts.
Finally, karting is an outdoor sport, so all these things need
to stand up to the sunlight. This means high resolution thermal
printing, which produces vivid color and depth that remains
color fast for many years.
A Neat Trick
Before applying any decal to polypropylene, the surface must
be perfectly clean (no oils or dirt please.) This can be
accomplished using good dish soap (Dawn cuts grease) and water,
followed by an alcohol wipe down. Finally, when the parts
are perfectly dry, use a propane (not MAP or acetylene) torch
with a spreader tip and just kiss the entire
surface all over. Do not apply heat for any length of
time, and keep the flame at least 8 inches off the
surface. The idea is not to make the parts warm, just
graze the surface itself momentarily (we accept no liability for
misapplying this process and the resulting damage.) This prepares the surface to accept
adhesive. Apply the decals immediately.
Material:
14 mil Standard: All of our graphics packages are built on a 6 mil base with an
8
mil gloss laminate. This extra thick clear cover will
stand up to regular use and lays down very nicely.
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Putting the ART into karting