SR-A Technical Information
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Airex™ Breathable Reflective Trim

SR-A Technical Data Sheet (Click Here for PDF Version)
 

Description
Safe Reflections Airex
® Breathable Reflective Trim is composed of 3M™ Scotchlite™ wide angle, exposed retroreflective lens sheeting combined with a unique proprietary adhesive system that produces a breathable, soft, lightweight, flexible, durable, and abrasion resistant reflective transfer for use on most fabric substrates. Airex Breathable Reflective Trim is designed to enhance the nighttime visibility of the wearer, while offering the wearer cooler, more comfortable reflective technology design.
 

Reflective Brilliance
Nighttime Visibility by Reflected Light: These reflective transfers will appear brilliant silver-white when viewed by a driver using vehicle headlights. It remains highly reflective when viewed at entrance angles.

The coefficient of retroreflection (RA) is measured by retroreflective intensity testing procedures:
ASTM E809 and E810 (RA)
 
The following minimum RA values may be used for specification or purchase description purposes:

Entrance Angle

Observation Angle

Typical RA

Minimum RA

Daytime Color

Reflected Color

-4.0°

0.2°

400

330

Silver

White



Effective Performance Life
Airex Breathable Reflective Trim retains reflectivity for the normal use life of the garment to which it is heat applied. Performance can vary depending upon actual use, exposure conditions, and maintenance. Users should test the trim to satisfy conformance to their own requirements. Airex Breathable Reflective Trim is resistant to contact temperatures from 500°F (260°C) to –19°F (-30°C).

Applications and Uses
Airex Breathable Reflective Trim is designed for use on a variety of fabrics to include:

  • Cotton
  • Poly Cotton blends
  • Stretchable fabrics such as Lycra™
  • Fine to heavy Nylons
  • Rainwear and Fire Resistant Fabrics

The design capability and uses for Airex Breathable Reflective Trim is virtually endless. Some common uses are T-shirts and sweatshirts; sports active apparel, caps, and bag accessories; work wear uniforms and packs; outwear jackets, vests and rainwear.

While use of Airex Breathable Reflective Trim enhances visibility, no reflective material can guarantee absolute visibility, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

Lamination Instructions
The laminating process and conditions of Airex Breathable Reflective Trim  will vary according to the fabric to which it is being applied.  Work on a flat surface where uniform heat and pressure can be applied.  Avoid applying transfer over seams and stitches.  Some fabrics, particularly some nylons, should be preheated before the lamination process to prevent shrinkage of the material under the trim piece. The trim must be cool to the touch before the paper backing is removed. 

Pre-Heat

None

Temperature

350-360°F

Dwell Time

20-25 seconds

Pressure

40 psi

Cold Press

Cool (< 100°F) under pressure for 8–10 seconds after transfer

COLD PEEL: Trim piece must be cool to the touch before removing the paper backing!



Note:  The above instructions are only guidelines. Fabric and application equipment may vary.  Always complete test sample prior to production.

Lift the trim piece transfer backing from one corner to start, and gently peel the paper away while holding the fabric flat.  For best results, peel diagonally across the image.  Do not peel with excessive force or speed. 

Care and Maintenance Instructions
It is recommended that transfers be tested when new materials or applications are involved.

  • For best retention of brightness, turn the garment inside out, hand or machine wash.
  • Warm / Gentle 105°F (40°C), line dry. 
  • Note:  To avoid damage to reflective material, commercial laundering is not recommended.

Unused Transfer Storage / Shelf Life

  • Store flat in a cool, dry area. 
  • Use within 6–9 months of receipt.

Note:  Any substitution of these conditions will void all express or implied warranties.
 

 


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