Product Description
ORACAL® 651™ Intermediate Calendered Plotter Film - Industry-Leading Vinyl with 82 Colors - 6-Year Durability for Sign Making, Crafts & Vehicle Graphics
The Industry Standard for Calendered Vinyl
ORACAL® 651™ stands as the undisputed industry leader in calendered plotter film, trusted by sign professionals, craft enthusiasts, and automotive graphics specialists worldwide. This premium 2.5-mil film offers an impressive selection of 82 colors in both glossy and luxurious matte finishes, providing virtually unlimited creative possibilities for any project. The specially formulated adhesive and film combination ensures exceptional ease of weeding and dimensional stability that rivals even PVC-cast plotter films—a remarkable achievement for calendered vinyl. Whether you're creating vehicle graphics for flat automotive surfaces, producing general signage for businesses, crafting architectural or automotive window graphics, designing point-of-purchase displays, or pursuing craft and home décor projects, ORACAL® 651™ delivers consistent, professional-quality results with outstanding value. The clear, solvent-based permanent adhesive provides 4.1 lb/in adhesive power for secure, long-term bonding, while the custom 84# silicone-coated paper liner (with distinctive blue liner for white films) offers excellent weeding characteristics and smooth release. With up to 6-year outdoor durability for colors and transparent films, 4-year durability for metallics, ASTM E 84-07 Class "A" fire rating, and ORAFOL's industry-leading $500 Splice-Free Guarantee, ORACAL® 651™ represents the gold standard that other calendered films aspire to match.
Why ORACAL® 651™ is the Industry Leader
Unmatched Color Selection
82 colors including 81 standard colors, transparent, matte white, and matte black. 18 select colors available in both gloss and matte finishes for maximum versatility.
Cast-Like Performance
Exceptional dimensional stability that rivals PVC-cast films—unprecedented in calendered vinyl. Minimal shrinkage ensures graphics stay true to size.
Superior Weeding
Specially formulated adhesive and film combination makes weeding effortless. Save time and reduce frustration on every project.
Professional Grade
Trusted by sign shops worldwide for consistent, reliable performance. The film professional installers specify by name.
Versatile Applications
From automotive graphics to crafts, from commercial signage to home décor—one film handles it all with professional results.
Outstanding Value
6-year outdoor durability at a calendered film price point. Premium performance without premium pricing.
$500 Splice-Free Guarantee
ORAFOL'S COMMITMENT TO QUALITY
Every roll guaranteed 100% splice-free or we replace it AND give you $500!
ORAFOL's Splice-Free Guarantee assures you that every roll of ORACAL® 651™ is free from splices.
If you identify a verifiable splice in your roll, ORAFOL will:
- ✓ Promptly replace the roll at no cost
- ✓ Provide you with $500 as compensation
- ✓ Ensure your uninterrupted graphic production experience
This unprecedented guarantee demonstrates ORAFOL's confidence in manufacturing quality and commitment to your satisfaction.
Key Features & Benefits
- 82 Color Selection: Largest color palette in calendered vinyl
- Gloss & Matte Finishes: 18 colors available in both finishes
- 2.5 Mil Thickness: Perfect balance of durability and flexibility
- 6-Year Outdoor Durability: Colors and transparent (vertical, Climate Zone 1)
- 4-Year Metallic Durability: Long-lasting metallic finishes
- Exceptional Dimensional Stability: Rivals cast films for minimal shrinkage
- Easy Weeding: Specially formulated for effortless weeding
- Permanent Adhesive: Clear, solvent-based (4.1 lb/in adhesive power)
- Custom Release Liner: 84# silicone-coated paper with excellent release
- Blue Liner for White: Superior contrast for easy weeding
- Fire Certified: ASTM E 84-07 Class "A" rating
- Wide Temperature Range: -40°F to +176°F service temperature
- $500 Splice-Free Guarantee: ORAFOL's quality commitment
Massive 82-Color Palette
Industry-Leading Selection
ORACAL® 651™ offers more colors than any other calendered plotter film:
- 81 Standard Colors: Comprehensive range covering every color need
- Transparent: For window graphics and layering effects
- Matte White & Matte Black: Non-reflective options for sophisticated looks
- Metallic Finishes: Eye-catching shimmer for premium projects
- 18 Dual-Finish Colors: Available in both gloss and matte
Finish Options
Note: For even more color options, consider ORACAL® 751 (84 colors) or ORACAL® 951 Premium Cast (154 colors) for enhanced conformability and longer durability.
Applications
Automotive Graphics
- Car, truck, van graphics (flat surfaces)
- Trailer graphics and lettering
- Racing stripes and accents
- Vehicle decals and badges
- Fleet vehicle identification
- Automotive window graphics
- Pinstriping and detailing
Commercial Signage
- Interior general signage
- Exterior business signs
- Storefront window graphics
- Architectural window films
- Office and facility signs
- Directional signage
- Safety and compliance signs
Point of Purchase
- POP displays
- Retail promotional graphics
- In-store signage
- Product displays
- Shelf talkers
- Sale and promotional signs
- Window displays
Craft & DIY Projects
- Cricut and Silhouette projects
- Home décor graphics
- Personalized gifts
- Wall decals and quotes
- Custom labels and stickers
- Scrapbooking accents
- DIY home projects
Technical Specifications
| Film Type: | Intermediate Calendered PVC |
| Thickness: | 2.5 mil (without liner and adhesive) |
| Colors Available: | 82 colors (81 colors + transparent + matte white/black) |
| Finish Options: | Gloss (all colors) / Matte (18 select colors) |
| Adhesive: | Clear, solvent-based, permanent |
| Adhesive Power: | 4.1 lb/in (adhered to stainless steel, 24h average) |
| Release Liner: | 84# custom silicone-coated paper (blue liner for white) |
| Outdoor Durability (Vertical, Zone 1): | 6 years (colors/transparent), 4 years (metallic), 3 years (brilliant blue 086) |
| Dimensional Stability: | No shrinkage cross direction; <0.016" length |
| Temperature Resistance: | -40°F to +176°F (adhered to aluminum) |
| Fire Rating: | ASTM E 84-07 Class "A" (self-extinguishing) |
| Tensile Strength: | Min. 19 MPa (along and across) |
| Elongation at Break: | Min. 130% (along) / Min. 150% (across) |
| Seawaterability: | No variation after 100h/73°F (adhered to aluminum) |
| Shelf Life: | 2 years (68°F/50% relative humidity) |
| Minimum Application Temp: | 46°F |
| Print Compatibility: | Thermal Transfer (gloss finish only) |
Available Sizes
Roll Lengths
- 150 feet (50-yard) - Standard production rolls
- 30 feet (10-yard) - Perfect for smaller projects and craft use
Available Gloss Widths
(including matte white and matte black)
- 12" - Ideal for craft projects
- 15" (punched) - Cricut and Silhouette compatible
- 24" - Popular sign making width
- 30" - Professional sign shop standard
- 48" - Large format projects
- 36"* - Available in transparent, black, and white only
- 60"* - Available upon special request (contact Customer Service for lead time)
Available Matte Widths
(including matte white and matte black)
- 12" - Craft and small projects
- 24" - Medium format applications
- 48" - Large format matte graphics
Compatible Application Tapes
ORACAL® 651™ works perfectly with ORATAPE® application tapes:
- ORATAPE® HT55 (paper): Standard paper application tape for most applications
- ORATAPE® MT95 (clear conformable): Clear tape for precise alignment and see-through application
- ORATAPE® MT80P: Additional premium option for specialty applications
Exceptional Dimensional Stability
Rivals Cast Film Performance
ORACAL® 651™'s dimensional stability is so exceptional it rivals PVC-cast plotter films—a remarkable achievement for calendered vinyl:
- No Shrinkage (Cross Direction): Graphics maintain width dimensions perfectly
- Minimal Length Shrinkage: Less than 0.016" ensures graphics stay true to size
- Professional Results: Letters and graphics don't distort or gap over time
- Long-Term Performance: Dimensional integrity maintained throughout 6-year lifespan
- Multi-Year Installations: Confidence in dimensional stability for long-term projects
Superior Weeding Characteristics
The specially formulated adhesive and film combination makes ORACAL® 651™ exceptionally easy to weed:
- Clean Release: Excess vinyl lifts away cleanly without tearing or stretching
- Precise Detail: Small letters and intricate designs weed perfectly
- Consistent Performance: Every color weeds with the same excellent characteristics
- Time Savings: Faster weeding means more productivity
- Less Frustration: Professional results without fighting difficult vinyl
- Blue Liner Advantage: White film on blue liner provides superior contrast for easy weeding
Reliable Long-Term Durability
Climate Zone 1 - Vertical Exposure
- 6 Years: Colors and transparent films
- 4 Years: Metallic finishes
- 3 Years: Brilliant Blue (color 086)
What Affects Durability
- Climate Zone: Zone 1 (northern climates) provides baseline durability
- Surface Orientation: Vertical surfaces last longer than horizontal
- UV Exposure: Direct sun vs. shaded locations
- Environmental Factors: Pollution, salt air, extreme weather
- Surface Preparation: Proper cleaning and prep ensures full durability
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning extends graphic life and appearance
Thermal Transfer Compatible
Gloss finish only is compatible with thermal transfer printing:
- Perfect for numbered decals and sequential graphics
- Ideal for equipment labels and identification
- Variable data printing capability
- Efficient production of customized graphics
- Professional results for short-run printing
Note: Matte finish is not compatible with thermal transfer printing.
Installation Guidelines
Surface Preparation
- Thoroughly clean surfaces from dust, grease, and contamination
- Ensure freshly lacquered or painted surfaces are completely cured
- Test compatibility with selected lacquers and paints before application
- Surface must be clean and dry
- Minimum application temperature: 46°F
Application Best Practices
- Use appropriate ORATAPE® application tape
- Apply firm, even squeegee pressure
- Work from center outward to eliminate air bubbles
- Remove application tape carefully at sharp angle
- Post-heat is typically not required for flat applications
- Allow graphics to cure for 24-48 hours before exposure to moisture
Care for Structured Surfaces
- Matte films have structured surfaces that are more sensitive than gloss
- Treat carefully during processing and cleaning
- Impurities affect appearance and require more frequent cleaning
- Use appropriate cleaning methods to maintain finish
Storage & Handling
- Store at 68°F with 50% relative humidity for optimal shelf life
- Keep in original packaging until use
- Shelf life: 2 years from date of manufacture
- Protect from temperature extremes and direct sunlight
- Store rolls horizontally to prevent deformation
- Handle with clean hands to avoid contamination
- Batch traceability available via roll number (ISO 9001)
Perfect for Craft Enthusiasts
ORACAL® 651™ is the vinyl of choice for crafters worldwide:
- Cricut & Silhouette Compatible: Works perfectly with all major craft cutters
- 15" Punched Rolls: Designed specifically for craft plotter compatibility
- Easy Weeding: Makes intricate designs achievable for all skill levels
- 10-Yard Rolls: Perfect size for craft projects without excessive waste
- 82 Colors: Unlimited creative possibilities
- 6-Year Durability: Home décor projects last for years
- Matte Options: Sophisticated finishes for premium craft projects
- Trusted Quality: Reliable results every time
The Professional's Choice
Why sign shops specify ORACAL® 651™ by name:
- Consistent Performance: Reliable results on every roll, every color
- Cast-Like Stability: Minimal shrinkage for professional-quality graphics
- Easy Weeding: Faster production means better profitability
- Color Matching: 82 colors provide options for any brand specification
- 6-Year Warranty: Confidence to offer long-term guarantees to customers
- Splice-Free Guarantee: No production interruptions from defective material
- Industry Standard: What customers expect and request
- Proven Track Record: Decades of reliable performance
Product Highlights
- ✓ Industry-leading 82-color selection - more than any other calendered vinyl
- ✓ Gloss and matte finishes - 18 colors available in both
- ✓ 6-year outdoor durability - exceptional for calendered film
- ✓ Cast-like dimensional stability - minimal shrinkage
- ✓ Superior weeding characteristics - fast, frustration-free
- ✓ $500 Splice-Free Guarantee - ORAFOL's quality commitment
- ✓ 2.5 mil thickness - perfect balance of durability and flexibility
- ✓ Permanent adhesive - 4.1 lb/in adhesive power
- ✓ Custom release liner - 84# with excellent release (blue liner for white)
- ✓ Fire certified - ASTM E 84-07 Class "A"
- ✓ Wide temperature range - -40°F to +176°F service temperature
- ✓ Multiple widths available - 12" to 60" to fit any project
ORACAL® 651™ vs. Other ORACAL® Films
| Feature | 651™ Intermediate | 751™ High Performance | 951™ Premium Cast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Film Type | Calendered | High Performance Cast | Premium Cast |
| Colors Available | 82 | 84 | 154 |
| Durability | 6 years | 8 years | 12 years |
| Conformability | Flat surfaces | Moderate curves | Complex curves |
| Dimensional Stability | Excellent (cast-like) | Superior | Maximum |
| Best For | Signs, graphics, crafts, flat vehicles | Vehicle graphics, curves | Full wraps, complex curves |
| Price Point | Most economical | Mid-range | Premium |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is ORACAL® 651™ considered the industry leader?
A: ORACAL® 651™ offers the perfect combination of features: 82 colors (more than any competitor), exceptional dimensional stability rivaling cast films, superior weeding characteristics, 6-year outdoor durability, and proven reliability. It's the film professionals specify by name and crafters trust for consistent results.
Q: Can ORACAL® 651™ be used on vehicles?
A: Yes, for flat automotive surfaces such as doors, hoods, trunks, and trailers. For full wraps or complex curves, consider ORACAL® 751 or 951 cast films which offer enhanced conformability.
Q: What's the difference between gloss and matte finishes?
A: Gloss has a shiny, reflective surface with vibrant colors—traditional for signage and available in all 82 colors. Matte has a non-reflective, sophisticated finish that eliminates glare—available in 18 select colors. Gloss is thermal transfer compatible; matte is not.
Q: Is ORACAL® 651™ compatible with Cricut and Silhouette machines?
A: Absolutely! ORACAL® 651™ is the vinyl of choice for craft enthusiasts. The 15" punched rolls are specifically designed for Cricut and Silhouette compatibility, and the easy weeding characteristics make intricate designs achievable.
Q: What does the $500 Splice-Free Guarantee mean?
A: ORAFOL guarantees every roll is 100% splice-free. If you find a verifiable splice, they'll replace the roll at no cost AND give you $500 compensation. This unprecedented guarantee demonstrates ORAFOL's manufacturing quality and commitment to your satisfaction.
Q: Why does dimensional stability matter?
A: Dimensional stability prevents shrinkage that can cause letters to distort, gaps to appear between graphics, or multi-color designs to misalign over time. ORACAL® 651™'s cast-like stability ensures graphics maintain their dimensions throughout their 6-year lifespan.
Q: How long does ORACAL® 651™ last outdoors?
A: On vertical surfaces in Climate Zone 1: 6 years for colors and transparent, 4 years for metallics, and 3 years for brilliant blue (086). Actual lifespan depends on UV exposure, climate, and maintenance.
Q: What application tape should I use?
A: ORATAPE® HT55 paper tape works great for most applications. For precise alignment or see-through application, use ORATAPE® MT95 clear conformable tape. Both are specifically designed to work perfectly with ORACAL® 651™.
Q: Can I print on ORACAL® 651™?
A: ORACAL® 651™ is compatible with thermal transfer printing (gloss finish only). It is NOT designed for digital printing with eco-solvent, solvent, latex, or UV inks. For printable vinyl, see ORAJET® digital print media.
Q: What makes weeding so easy with ORACAL® 651™?
A: The specially formulated adhesive and film combination allows excess vinyl to lift away cleanly without tearing or stretching. The custom 84# release liner provides excellent release characteristics, and the blue liner for white film offers superior contrast for easy weeding.
Q: Which width should I buy?
A: For craft projects: 12" or 15" (punched). For sign making: 24" or 30". For large format: 48" or 60". Choose based on your plotter width and typical project sizes to minimize waste.
Q: How should I store ORACAL® 651™?
A: Store at 68°F with 50% relative humidity in original packaging. Shelf life is 2 years from manufacture date when stored properly. Protect from temperature extremes and direct sunlight.
Quality Assurance & Warranty
All ORACAL® products are subject to careful quality control throughout the manufacturing process and are warranted to be of merchantable quality and free from manufacturing defects. Published information concerning ORACAL® products is based upon research which the Company believes to be reliable although such information does not constitute a warranty. Because of the variety of uses of ORACAL® products and the continuing development of new applications, the purchaser should carefully consider the suitability and performance of the product for each intended use, and the purchaser shall assume all risks regarding such use.
California Prop 65 Warning: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
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