AIRFRAME
VINYL GRAPHICS MORE THAN PAINT
R. Fred Polak | Editor
Two issues ago, we featured an article from Surefl ight LLC, in Coatesville, PA, on painting your helicopter.
We also featured an article from Julie Voisin, Global Product Manager, Aerospace Coatings, Sherwin-Williams Company, on choosing the right paint for your helicopter. If you work in your company’s paint booth, or are responsible for the fi nish on your company’s aircraft, you know that paint is not all you will fi nd on the exterior of many aircraft. In many instances, there will also be vinyl graphics for designs, registration numbers and even logos.
What are Vinyl Graphics? Vinyl graphics have been around for many years as a func- tional way to decorate cars, trucks, windows and aircraft. When contemplating whether to place a vinyl graphic on a helicopter’s surface, there are many useful points to know about beforehand. Vinyl graphics are designs or patterns made of vinyl mate-
rial with an adhesive backing, making them resemble semi- permanent window clings. They are used for decoration and making a surface more pleasing to the eye. Vinyl graphics can be used on almost any smooth surface, making them an ideal choice for decoration material. They are usually applied by
peeling the graphic to be installed from the backing material and applying it to the helicopter’s surface, much like a sticker.
Common Misconceptions Vinyl graphics are not stickers or temporary tattoos. They generally have to be bought from a store that specializes in vinyl graphics. Since they are available for just about any type of transportation vehicle, it is important to contact a shop that specializes or carries vinyl graphics for aircraft. Because they are made of vinyl, they have to be made and cut out using a special tool.
Benefi ts Vinyl graphics are backed with a strong adhesive, and the vi- nyl material makes them eff ectively weatherproof and durable. This is unlike stickers, which can bubble, peel and wash off . The adhesive on the vinyl makes them good for decoration on just about any smooth and even exterior surface such as metal or fi berglass. Most places that sell vinyl graphics can make a custom design based on what you like and where the graphic will be placed.
6
HelicopterMaintenanceMagazine.com April | May 2014
Vinyl Graphics Registration Number – Photo Courtesy of TRANS AERO LTD.
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