Product Description
Overview
Arlon DPF 5200 is a premium 2-mil (50 micron) printable cast vinyl designed to transform ordinary glass into elegant etched or sandblasted-looking surfaces without the expense of actual glass etching. This versatile decorative film provides the sophisticated appearance of custom etched glass while offering the flexibility of easy installation, removal, and customization through digital printing or vinyl cutting. Perfect for creating privacy, adding decorative elements, or branding glass surfaces in commercial and residential environments.
Why Choose DPF 5200?
Traditional glass etching and sandblasting are expensive, permanent, and time-consuming processes. DPF 5200 delivers the same sophisticated aesthetic at a fraction of the cost, with the added benefits of easy installation, printability, and the ability to change designs as needed. The special adhesive system ensures superior adhesion under demanding conditions while the synthetic liner provides water resistance for wet application. Available in three distinctive finishes, DPF 5200 allows you to achieve exactly the look you envision.
Available Finishes
314 - Etched Glass (Frosted) Classic frosted etched glass appearance with uniform translucent white finish. Perfect for privacy applications while allowing natural light to pass through. Ideal for office partitions, bathroom windows, and conference rooms.
007 - Silver Etched Glass Sophisticated silver-tinted etched appearance that adds a contemporary, metallic elegance to glass surfaces. Provides enhanced privacy with a modern aesthetic. Excellent for retail displays, hotel lobbies, and upscale residential applications.
334 - Sparkle Etched Glass Distinctive textured finish with subtle sparkle effect that catches light beautifully. Creates an eye-catching decorative element while maintaining privacy. Perfect for restaurants, hotels, retail environments, and luxury residential projects.
Key Features
- Authentic Etched Glass Look: Perfectly simulates expensive etched or sandblasted glass
- Privacy Without Darkness: Obscures visibility day and night while allowing natural light
- Printable Surface: Compatible with Eco-Solvent, Solvent, Latex, and UV print systems
- Easy Wet Application: Apply with water for repositionability and bubble-free results
- Superior Cutting & Weeding: Cuts cleanly for intricate decorative designs
- Cast Vinyl Construction: 2-mil premium cast film for durability and performance
- Water-Resistant Liner: Synthetic liner ideal for wet application methods
- Extended Durability: Up to 7 years outdoor performance (unprinted)
- Interior & Exterior Rated: Suitable for both inside and outside glass applications
- Exceptional Adhesion: Special adhesive system performs under demanding conditions
- Extended Shelf Life: 2 years from factory shipment when properly stored
Applications
Commercial Environments:
- Office glass partitions and conference room windows
- Retail storefront windows and displays
- Restaurant and bar privacy dividers
- Bank teller windows and privacy screens
- Hospital and medical facility windows
- Hotel lobby glass and room partitions
- Corporate branding on glass doors and walls
- Elevator glass panels and building directories
Hospitality & Retail:
- Restaurant booth dividers and bathroom windows
- Hotel bathroom and shower glass
- Spa and salon privacy screens
- Retail fitting room windows
- Bar and nightclub decorative glass
- Reception area glass panels
Residential Applications:
- Bathroom windows and shower doors
- Front door sidelights and transoms
- Kitchen cabinet glass inserts
- Interior French doors
- Home office glass partitions
- Bedroom and closet windows
- Decorative accent panels
Specialty Uses:
- Trade show booth graphics and displays
- Museum and gallery display cases
- Theater and entertainment venue glass
- Educational facility windows
- Religious institution decorative glass
- Custom decorative panels and artwork
Technical Specifications
- Film Type: Premium Cast Decorative Vinyl
- Thickness: 2 mil (50 micron)
- Finish: Low Gloss Etched (4-20 gloss units)
- Adhesive: Permanent Pressure-Sensitive (Clear)
- Release Liner: Synthetic water-resistant
- Durability (Unprinted): Up to 7 years outdoors
- Application Temperature: 60°F to 90°F (10°C to 30°C)
- Service Temperature: -40°F to 200°F (-40°C to 93°C)
- Tensile Strength: ≥ 6.0 lb/in (≥ 1.3 kg/cm)
- Elongation: ≥ 100%
- Peel Adhesion: ≥ 3.6 lb/in (≥ 0.65 kg/cm)
- Dimensional Stability: 0.010 in (0.24 mm) after 158°F, 48 hours
- Liner Release: 50 g/2 in (9.84 g/cm)
- Shelf Life: 2 years from factory shipment
Available Sizes
- 24" x 10 yards (0.61 m x 9.14 m)
- 24" x 50 yards (0.61 m x 45.72 m)
- 30" x 10 yards (0.76 m x 9.14 m)
- 30" x 50 yards (0.76 m x 45.72 m)
- 48" x 10 yards (1.22 m x 9.14 m)
- 48" x 50 yards (1.22 m x 45.72 m)
- 60" x 50 yards (1.52 m x 45.72 m)
*Note: 10-yard rolls only available in 48" width
Print Compatibility
DPF 5200 accepts printing from all major digital printing systems:
- Eco-Solvent Inks
- Solvent Inks
- UV Inks
- Latex Inks
This allows for:
- Custom branded glass graphics
- Decorative patterns and designs
- Directional signage on glass
- Artistic installations
- Logo applications
- Informational displays
Design Flexibility
Digital Printing Print custom designs, logos, patterns, or artistic elements on any of the three finishes to create unique, branded environments. The etched appearance provides an elegant backdrop for printed graphics.
Cut Vinyl Designs Use a vinyl cutter to create intricate decorative patterns, geometric designs, or ornamental elements. The superior cutting and weeding properties ensure clean, precise results even with complex designs.
Combination Techniques Combine printing and cutting for truly custom installations. Print background patterns and cut overlay designs for dimensional effects.
Full Coverage or Accent Apply as full window coverage for complete privacy, or create accent bands, borders, or decorative elements for partial coverage designs.
Installation Advantages
Wet Application Method DPF 5200 is specifically designed for wet application, which offers several benefits:
- Easy repositioning during installation
- Bubble-free results
- Smooth, professional finish
- Reduced installation time
- Perfect for large-format applications
Water-Resistant Liner The synthetic liner won't absorb application solution, maintaining dimensional stability throughout the installation process and ensuring consistent results.
Finely Balanced Properties Optimized adhesion, tack, and shrinkage characteristics provide:
- Secure bond to glass surfaces
- Minimal edge lifting
- Long-term dimensional stability
- Professional appearance
Privacy Without Compromise
DPF 5200 provides excellent privacy by obscuring visibility through glass both day and night, while still allowing natural light to filter through. This creates bright, comfortable spaces that maintain confidentiality and visual privacy without the darkness of opaque materials.
Performance & Durability
Interior & Exterior Rated Suitable for both interior and exterior glass applications with up to 7 years of outdoor durability (unprinted). Printed durability depends on ink system and environmental conditions.
Extreme Temperature Performance Service temperature range of -40°F to 200°F ensures performance in diverse climates and environments, from exterior storefront windows in northern winters to south-facing glass in hot desert climates.
Humidity Resistance Tested at 100% relative humidity at 100°F for 500 hours when applied to etched aluminum panels, proving reliability in high-moisture environments like bathrooms, kitchens, and spa facilities.
Superior Adhesion Special adhesive system with ≥ 3.6 lb/in peel adhesion ensures the film stays in place under demanding conditions including temperature fluctuations, high humidity, and cleaning.
Arlon Total System Warranty
When combined with other compatible Arlon products, DPF 5200 is covered under the Arlon Total System Warranty, providing added peace of mind for professional installations.
Cost-Effective Alternative to Etched Glass
Real etched or sandblasted glass costs:
- $50-150+ per square foot for custom etching
- Permanent and cannot be changed
- Requires special equipment and expertise
- Long lead times for custom designs
DPF 5200 provides:
- Fraction of the cost of real etching
- Easy installation without special equipment
- Changeable when you want to update designs
- Fast turnaround for custom projects
- Ability to print custom graphics
Surface Preparation & Application
Recommended Surfaces:
- Glass (windows, doors, partitions, mirrors)
- Smooth acrylic or polycarbonate panels
- Other smooth, non-porous clear substrates
Surface Preparation:
- Clean thoroughly with glass cleaner
- Remove all dirt, grease, and residue
- Dry completely or use wet application method
- Ensure surface temperature is within application range
Installation Tips:
- Use wet application for best results
- Work out bubbles from center to edges
- Use squeegee with felt edge to avoid scratching
- Trim excess carefully with sharp blade
- Allow 24-48 hours for complete adhesive cure
Maintenance & Care
- Clean with non-abrasive glass cleaner
- Use soft cloth or paper towels
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners
- Do not use razor blades or sharp objects on surface
- Properly maintained film will last for years
Important Notes
- Printed durability depends on ink system and exposure conditions
- Test print quality on sample before production runs
- Store material at 70°F (21°C) and 50% relative humidity
- Allow material to acclimate to room temperature before use
- Use proper wet application technique for best results
- Material is permanent adhesive - removal may be difficult
Environmental Considerations
DPF 5200 allows natural light transmission while providing privacy, reducing the need for:
- Additional lighting energy consumption
- Heavy curtains or blinds
- Expensive architectural modifications
- Permanent glass alterations
