Product Description
Arlon DPF 50WD Clear is a premium 4-mil (100 micron) crystal-clear vinyl film engineered specifically for temporary window advertising and promotional displays. Featuring a specially formulated low-tack removable pressure-sensitive adhesive, this film bonds securely to glass and high-energy substrates while removing cleanly across a wide temperature range—making it the ideal solution for seasonal campaigns, temporary promotions, and short-term window graphics that need to come off without residue or damage. The moisture-stable polycoated lay-flat liner is optimized for reliable printing on multiple systems, ensuring your graphics look vibrant and professional.
Why Choose DPF 50WD Clear?
When you need window graphics that look invisible until you print on them, DPF 50WD Clear delivers. Unlike opaque or frosted films, this crystal-clear substrate allows full visibility through windows while displaying your printed graphics beautifully. The low-tack adhesive is the key differentiator—engineered to create a secure bond during the campaign period while removing completely clean when it's time to change graphics or restore the window to its original state. Perfect for retail, restaurants, offices, and any application where temporary visibility and clean removal are essential.
Key Features
- Crystal Clear Appearance: 99% gloss clarity allows full visibility through windows
- Low-Tack Removable Adhesive: Bonds well yet removes cleanly without residue
- Wide Temperature Removal: Clean removal in temperatures from -20°F to 176°F
- 4-Mil Durable Construction: Thicker film resists tearing and provides better handling
- Premium Printable Surface: Accepts Solvent, UV, and UV Screen printing
- Moisture-Stable Liner: Lay-flat polycoated liner ideal for various print systems
- Extended Shelf Life: 2 years when properly stored
- High Elongation: 250% elongation provides flexibility during application
- Outdoor Rated: Up to 1 year outdoor durability (unprinted)
- Series 3200 Compatible: Can be overlaminated for added protection
- Dry Application: Recommended for cleaner, faster installation
Applications
Retail Window Advertising:
- Seasonal sale announcements and promotions
- Holiday window displays and graphics
- New product launch campaigns
- Store hours and information
- COVID-19 safety messaging and capacity signs
- Clearance and special offer graphics
- Brand messaging and lifestyle imagery
Restaurant & Food Service:
- Menu boards and daily specials
- Promotional campaigns and limited-time offers
- Seasonal menu highlights
- Delivery and takeout information
- Safety protocol signage
- Event announcements
- Brand storytelling graphics
Office & Corporate:
- Temporary wayfinding and directional signage
- Event promotion and conference graphics
- Corporate branding and messaging
- Privacy graphics for conference rooms
- Recruitment and hiring announcements
- Temporary partition graphics
Point-of-Purchase Displays:
- Horizontal POP applications (not floor graphics)
- Display cases and countertop graphics
- Product information and specifications
- Promotional displays on glass or metal
- Trade show booth graphics on clear substrates
- Museum and gallery display labels
High-Energy Substrates:
- Glass windows and doors
- Aluminum frames and panels
- Metal display fixtures
- Polished stainless steel
- Acrylic and plexiglass displays
- Chrome and polished metal surfaces
Temporary Applications:
- Event signage and venue graphics
- Pop-up shop window displays
- Temporary retail spaces
- Construction site information
- Real estate open house signs
- Seasonal decorations and graphics
Technical Specifications
- Film Type: Clear Promotional Removable Vinyl
- Thickness: 4 mil (100 micron)
- Surface Finish: Clear Gloss (99% gloss meter reading)
- Adhesive: Clear Low-Tack Removable Pressure-Sensitive
- Release Liner: Premium moisture-stable polycoated lay-flat
- Durability (Unprinted): Up to 1 year outdoors
- Application Temperature: 50°F to 90°F (10°C to 30°C)
- Service Temperature: -20°F to 176°F (-29°C to 80°C)
- Tensile Strength: 22.0 lb/in (3.93 kg/cm)
- Elongation: 250%
- Peel Adhesion: 0.16 lb/in (0.03 kg/cm) - Low tack
- Dimensional Stability: 25 mils (0.635 mm) shrinkage after 158°F, 48 hours
- Liner Release: 25 g/2 in (4.92 g/cm)
- Shelf Life: 2 years from factory shipment
Print Compatibility
DPF 50WD Clear is optimized for digital printing with:
- Solvent Inks: Excellent adhesion and color vibrancy
- UV Inks: Superior curing and durability
- UV Screen Printing: Professional screen printing results
Note: Printed durability depends on ink system used and environmental exposure. For extended outdoor use, consider overlaminating with Arlon Series 3200.
Low-Tack Removable Adhesive Technology
What Makes It Special? The adhesive system in DPF 50WD Clear is specifically engineered for temporary applications:
Low Initial Tack (0.16 lb/in):
- Gentle enough for clean removal
- Strong enough for secure bonding during use
- No adhesive residue left behind
- Removes cleanly without heat or chemicals
Wide Temperature Removal Range:
- Service temperature: -20°F to 176°F (-29°C to 80°C)
- Removes cleanly in both cold and warm conditions
- Ideal for seasonal changes and varying climates
- Consistent performance regardless of weather
Bonds to High-Energy Surfaces:
- Excellent adhesion to glass
- Secure bonding to aluminum and metals
- Reliable performance on smooth substrates
- Professional appearance throughout application period
Crystal Clear Transparency
99% Gloss Clarity: Unlike frosted or translucent films, DPF 50WD Clear maintains full window transparency:
- Preserves natural light transmission
- Maintains visibility through windows
- Graphics appear to float on glass
- Professional, modern aesthetic
- Perfect for full-color photographic images
Printing Advantages:
- Print appears vibrant and bold
- Colors pop against clear background
- White ink base coat creates opacity where needed
- Clear areas remain transparent
- Professional reverse-print applications possible
Installation Method
Dry Application Recommended: Arlon recommends dry application for best results with DPF 50WD Clear:
Advantages of Dry Application:
- Cleaner, faster installation process
- No water or application fluid mess
- Immediate adhesion and bonding
- No drying or curing time required
- Reduced risk of moisture-related issues
Installation Steps:
- Clean glass thoroughly with appropriate cleaner
- Dry surface completely
- Position graphic using hinge method
- Apply with firm, even squeegee pressure
- Trim excess material
- Done - no waiting period required
Moisture-Stable Liner Advantage
Premium Polycoated Lay-Flat Liner: The specially designed liner provides multiple benefits:
- Moisture Stable: Won't absorb humidity or warp during storage
- Lay-Flat Design: Prevents curling and tunneling for easier handling
- Print Optimized: Smooth surface for consistent print quality
- Dimensional Stability: Maintains precise dimensions through printing process
- Easy Release: Releases cleanly without tearing or sticking
Overlamination Option
Compatible with Series 3200: For applications requiring additional protection:
- Enhances outdoor durability beyond 1 year
- Protects printed graphics from scratching
- Adds UV protection for colors
- Creates graffiti-resistant surface
- Professional high-gloss finish
Performance Characteristics
High Elongation (250%): The 250% elongation provides:
- Flexibility during application around slight curves
- Conformability to textured glass surfaces
- Resistance to splitting during installation
- Durability during handling and transport
Superior Tensile Strength (22.0 lb/in): Strong film construction means:
- Resists tearing during installation
- Durable enough for temporary outdoor use
- Withstands handling without damage
- Professional appearance throughout use period
Excellent Dimensional Stability: Minimal shrinkage (25 mils) ensures:
- Graphics maintain registration over time
- No edge lifting or curling
- Professional appearance throughout campaign
- Reliable performance in varying temperatures
Durability & Lifespan
Unprinted Film:
- Up to 1 year outdoor durability
- Extended indoor life (2+ years typical)
- Removable throughout service life
- Consistent performance over time
Printed Graphics:
- Durability depends on ink system
- UV and solvent inks provide best outdoor performance
- Overlamination significantly extends printed life
- Indoor applications last considerably longer
Storage & Shelf Life:
- 2-year shelf life when properly stored
- Store at 70°F (21°C) and 50% relative humidity
- Keep away from excessive moisture and temperature
- Protect from direct sunlight
Ideal For Seasonal Campaigns
Why Retailers Love DPF 50WD Clear: Perfect for businesses that change window graphics frequently:
Holiday Promotions:
- Install Halloween graphics in October
- Switch to Thanksgiving/Christmas in November
- Valentine's Day, Easter, Back-to-School campaigns
- Each removal is clean and residue-free
Seasonal Sales:
- Spring sale announcements
- Summer clearance events
- Fall fashion previews
- Winter white sales
Limited-Time Offers:
- Weekend sale graphics
- Flash sale announcements
- New product launches
- Special event promotions
Removal Process
Clean Removal Procedure:
- Start from corner or edge
- Pull slowly at 90-degree angle
- Work steadily across graphic
- No heat required in most cases
- Clean glass with standard cleaner if desired
Temperature Considerations:
- Removes cleanly from -20°F to 176°F
- Cold weather: May need slight warming for easier removal
- Hot weather: No special considerations needed
- Consistent results across temperature range
No Adhesive Residue:
- Low-tack formulation leaves no residue
- Glass returns to original appearance
- No chemical removers needed
- No sticky cleanup required
Cost-Effective Solution
Why DPF 50WD Clear Saves Money:
Eliminates Permanent Signage Costs:
- No need for expensive painted window signs
- Change graphics as often as needed
- Update messaging for each campaign
- Reuse windows for multiple promotions
Reduces Labor Costs:
- Quick, easy dry application
- Fast removal process
- No professional installer required
- DIY-friendly for business owners
Maximizes Marketing Flexibility:
- Test different messages and graphics
- Adapt to market conditions quickly
- Respond to competitive pressures
- Keep storefronts fresh and engaging
Important Application Notes
Substrate Compatibility:
- Best Performance: Glass, aluminum, polished metals
- Good Performance: Smooth plastics, sealed surfaces
- Not Recommended: Low-energy plastics, textured surfaces, porous materials
Application Environment:
- Apply within 50°F to 90°F temperature range
- Ensure substrate is clean and dry
- Avoid applying in direct sunlight on hot surfaces
- Allow material to acclimate to room temperature
Exclusions:
- NOT for floor graphics - use appropriate floor graphic material
- NOT for vehicles - use automotive-grade vinyl
- NOT for long-term permanent applications - use permanent vinyl
Storage & Handling
Proper Storage Extends Life:
- Store at 70°F (21°C) and 50% relative humidity
- Keep in original packaging until use
- Store rolls vertically when possible
- Protect from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight
- Use within 2 years of factory shipment
Handling Best Practices:
- Allow material to acclimate before printing
- Handle printed material carefully until installed
- Avoid creasing or folding
- Support rolls properly during transport
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes this different from permanent clear vinyl? A: DPF 50WD Clear features low-tack removable adhesive (0.16 lb/in) designed specifically for temporary applications. It removes cleanly without residue, unlike permanent films which are designed for long-term bonding.
Q: Can I apply this to the inside or outside of windows? A: Yes, both. For inside application (second surface), print in reverse. For outside application (first surface), print normally. Consider overlaminating exterior applications for added protection.
Q: Will this leave residue when I remove it? A: No, the low-tack adhesive is specifically formulated for clean removal without leaving residue on glass and high-energy substrates.
Q: How long can graphics stay up before removal becomes difficult? A: Up to 1 year for outdoor applications. Indoor applications can last longer. The film removes cleanly throughout its rated service life.
Q: Can I use this for floor graphics? A: No, DPF 50WD Clear is NOT rated for floor graphics. Use appropriate floor graphic material with slip-resistant coating for floor applications.
Q: Do I need to use application fluid? A: No, dry application is recommended. The film is designed for clean, simple dry application without the mess of application fluids.
Q: Will this work on vehicle windows? A: While it will adhere to vehicle glass, DPF 50WD is designed for stationary windows. For vehicle applications, use automotive-grade vinyl designed for that purpose.
Q: Can I print white ink on this to create opaque areas? A: Yes! Printing white ink as a base coat creates opaque areas, while leaving other areas clear creates nice contrast effects.
Q: Do I need to overlaminate this film? A: Not required for short-term indoor use. For outdoor applications or longer-term use, overlaminating with Series 3200 extends durability and protects the print.
Q: How do I remove the graphics? A: Simply peel slowly from a corner at a 90-degree angle. No heat or chemicals needed in most cases. The low-tack adhesive releases cleanly across a wide temperature range.
Q: What surfaces will this stick to? A: Best on high-energy substrates like glass, aluminum, and polished metals. Works on smooth plastics and sealed surfaces. Not recommended for low-energy plastics or porous materials.
Q: Can I reuse the graphics after removing them? A: No, once removed, the adhesive will not re-stick effectively. This is designed for single-use applications.
Use Case Examples
Retail Store - Seasonal Campaigns:
- Challenge: Needed to change window graphics 6 times per year for different promotions
- Solution: DPF 50WD Clear allowed quick changes with clean removal every time
- Result: Professional appearance for each campaign, no adhesive buildup, significant cost savings vs. permanent signs
Restaurant - Weekly Specials:
- Challenge: Wanted to promote daily/weekly menu specials on front windows
- Solution: Print new specials on DPF 50WD Clear, apply Monday, remove Friday
- Result: Fresh, professional promotion every week with no residue issues
Corporate Office - Event Promotion:
- Challenge: Needed temporary wayfinding for quarterly conference
- Solution: Clear vinyl graphics on glass walls and doors
- Result: Professional directional signage that removed completely clean after event
Pop-Up Shop - Temporary Retail:
- Challenge: 3-month lease required professional storefront appearance
- Solution: Full window graphics on DPF 50WD Clear
- Result: Professional branded storefront that removed completely clean when lease ended
