Reinforced PVC Fabric is a composite material, comprising a high

 tenacity polyester scrim, either coated or laminated with a PVC membrane. In the coating process, the PVC is spread over the scrim in a molten form; whereas in lamination it is adhered as a finished film. The outcome in both cases is a tough, durable and waterproof industrial strength fabric, suited for a wide range of outdoor applications such as transport tarpaulins, fixed covers and canopies, truck and trailer side curtains, banners and much more.

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What is coated woven polyethylene? The term “coated” refers to a method

 of stabilising and waterproofing a woven base fabric, by application of coating compound of similar molecular composition in liquid or molten form.

Polyethylene is a derivative of the petroleum refining process and has an uncomplex molecular structure comprising simply hydrogen and carbon atoms. Low density polyethylene (LDPE) and high density polyethylene (HDPE) are almost identical, except that HDPE is more linear in structure, with less branching of the polymer chains, which results in better tensile properties. HDPE is used for the base yarn of the fabric, and LDPE as the coating.

The woven base fabric is usually designated by its yarn count and weight. (e.g 12 x 12 x 1000 denier) The yarn ‘count’ is literally the number of yarns per inch (25.4 mm) in the warp and weft directions respectively. ‘Denier’ is a weight per length namely, grams /9,000 metres.

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The objective of installing a shade structure or sail is to create shade.

 proTEX Parasol is manufactured using a monofilament and tape construction to maximise cover factor and provide the highest possible level of UVR block. This is important because UVR block is a measure of the degree of protection from the wavelengths of UV radiation known to be the cause of sunburn and cancer.

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PVC “Clear” is used extensively for outdoor blinds and roll-up

 windows in fabric enclosures on boats.

There are three types for the market, “calendared”, “extruded”, or “pressed”, each type named after its form of manufacture. All three are identical in composition, but differ in quality of surface finish, which determines the degree of visual clarity. The highly polished surface of the “pressed” product is the best surface finish presently available, and is almost universally used in a marine environment.

Clear PVC is highly susceptible to degradation due to exposure to ultra-violet light and pollutants in the atmosphere, and will turn yellow and brittle over time. Regular cleaning and shielding when not in use will greatly enhance expected life. Nonetheless, all Nolan brands have UV inhibitors added, which provides the added benefit of protection from sunburn and cancer causing radiation.

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Reinforced PVC is a common substrate used in the sign industry for banner and

 billboard advertising. It features a high strength to weight ratio and will accept high resolution images with relative ease.

There are 3 types of reinforced PVC used for banners and billboards. 1. ‘frontlit’ is a basic substrate with a smooth surface. It is commonly used for billboards or banners where the back side cannot be seen. 2. ‘backlit’ is a similar concept to front lit except it is transparent. The image is printed on the surface and light from the back of the material illuminates the image. This effect is eye catching at night but does have set up and running costs involved. 3. ‘blockout’ is generally only used for double sided banners. It features 2 smooth surfaces divided by a black film. This film stops the light from passing through the material so an image can be printed on both sides without transfer.

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Water Penetration Resistance of Woven Fabrics

 

By their very nature, woven fabrics are porous. This can be an advantage because it allows movement of air between internal and external surfaces, thus minimising the likelihood of condensation and temperature differences. However, the obvious difficulty is preventing the penetration of water.

Fabrics are made water repellent by depositing a hydrophobic substance on the fibres, which has the effect of altering their absorption characteristics, thus preventing capillary action or seepage. Water repellant fabrics have open pores and are still permeable to air and water vapour. Water proofing on the other hand entails completely filling the pores with an impermeable substance (usually a coating of polyurethane). Whilst this increases significantly the resistance to water penetration, it also prevents the passage of air and water vapour. Nolaproof canvas and Sunbrella ® are water repellant, whereas Sunbrella ® “Plus” is water proofed. The main difference between the two processes is degree of resistance to water pressure.

Canvas is a traditional proven outdoor material with a warm, matt appearance. All Nolaproof canvas is woven from a polyester/cotton blend and is rot-proofed. The luxurious-looking acrylic canvas takes its name from its synthetic solution-dyed fibre. “Solution” dyed means that the colour is added during fibre extrusion, which provides a superior colour fastness. Like poly/cotton canvas, woven acrylic canvas is mildew treated.

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PVC coated mesh comprises a woven polyester matrix dipped or coated

 in such a way that the individual yarns are completely covered and protected. The result is a flexible composite that is widely used for blinds, screens, outdoor furniture fabric, truck covers and even as a print substrate. Principal features are its ventilation, heat insulation and ‘see through’ characteristics, which are a direct function from the size of the weave.

The most common application for PVC coated mesh is blinds and awnings. It provides privacy whilst still letting in a portion of natural light. Suncontrol has taken this concept to a new level. Not only does Suncontrol provide visual comfort but it dramatically reduces the penetration of ultra violet and infra red light. Suncontrol reduces ultra violet radiation (UVR) by up to 90% which equates to applying a sunscreen rated at UPF-10. UVR is well known to be the cause of sunburn and extensive damage to internal carpets and furnishings. Suncontrol also provides exceptional temperature control reducing solar transmission (infra red light) by an average of 80%. This dramatically reduces room temperature and maximises air conditioning efficiency.

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