Product Description
ORAGUARD® 294 High Performance Cast PVC Overlaminate - Highest Level UV Protection - 1.5 Mil Clear Cast Film - Gloss or Matte Finish - 8-Year Durability
The Highest Level of UV Protection Available
ORAGUARD® 294 represents the pinnacle of protective overlaminate technology, delivering the highest level of UV protection available in ORAFOL's product lineup. This premium 1.5-mil high performance cast PVC film is specifically engineered to extend the lifespan of digitally printed graphics through superior UV protection, enhanced durability, and professional finishing options. Available in both gloss and matte finishes, ORAGUARD® 294 allows you to customize the final appearance of your graphics while providing exceptional protection against UV rays, abrasion, environmental elements, and wear. The clear cast construction ensures optical clarity that won't distort colors or compromise print quality, while the clear solvent-based permanent adhesive provides secure bonding to qualified ORAJET digital print media. With an impressive UV Protection Extension Factor of 8 years and outdoor durability up to 8 years on vertical surfaces in Climate Zone 1, ORAGUARD® 294 dramatically extends the service life of printed graphics—protecting your investment and your customer's satisfaction. The film's enhanced structure adds stability to printed graphics during installation, reducing wrinkles and bubbles for smoother application—particularly valuable on large format panels, complex curves, and vehicle wraps where installation challenges are greatest. The exceptional temperature resistance range of -58°F to +230°F ensures reliable performance in extreme climates, while the cast construction provides the conformability required for vehicle and boat wrapping applications. ORAGUARD® 294 is specifically recommended for use with ORAJET 3751RA+PS, 3551RA+PS, and 3971RA+PS digital print media, creating a complete system engineered for optimal performance and longevity. Whether you're protecting high-value fleet graphics, custom vehicle wraps, marine vessel graphics, or long-term outdoor signage, ORAGUARD® 294 delivers the premium protection that justifies the investment in professional overlamination. Backed by ORAFOL's $500 Splice-Free Guarantee and manufactured to the highest quality standards, this overlaminate provides the confidence to offer extended warranties and build your reputation for graphics that stand the test of time.
Highest Level UV Protection
What sets ORAGUARD® 294 apart as the UV protection leader:
8-Year UV Protection Extension Factor
Industry-leading UV protection extends the lifespan of printed inks by up to 8 years, preserving colors and preventing fading far beyond unprotected graphics.
Maximum Ink Longevity
Superior UV absorbers and stabilizers protect against sun damage that causes color fading, ink degradation, and graphic failure. Your prints look fresh for years longer.
Color Preservation
Prevents UV-induced color shift and fading—graphics maintain true color accuracy throughout their lifespan, not just the first year or two.
Geographic Versatility
Exceptional UV protection performs reliably across all climate zones—from harsh desert sun to tropical UV intensity to northern winter conditions.
Investment Protection
The highest level of UV protection means longer-lasting graphics, fewer replacements, and better return on investment for your customers.
Warranty Confidence
Superior UV protection allows you to offer extended warranties with confidence—differentiate your service with guaranteed longevity.
Why Overlamination is Essential
The critical benefits of protective overlamination that professionals understand:
1. Enhanced Installation
The overlaminate adds structure and stability to digitally printed graphics, dramatically improving installation quality:
- Reduced Wrinkles: Added rigidity helps prevent wrinkles during application
- Fewer Bubbles: Structural stability makes bubble elimination easier
- Smoother Application: Film handles better, especially on large panels
- Professional Results: Consistent, flawless finish that builds your reputation
- Large Format Advantage: Critical for panel graphics and full vehicle wraps
- Reduced Rework: Better first-time application success means less wasted time
2. Increased Ink Lifespan
Extra UV protection extends the lifespan of printed inks far beyond unlaminated graphics:
- UV Ray Barrier: Blocks harmful UV radiation that degrades inks
- Color Preservation: Maintains vibrant colors for years longer
- Fade Prevention: Prevents the gradual fading that ruins unprotected graphics
- Ink Integrity: Protects molecular structure of inks from UV damage
- Long-Term Appearance: Graphics look professional throughout entire lifespan
- Customer Satisfaction: Longer-lasting graphics mean happier clients
3. Customizable Appearance
Overlaminate allows tailored final appearance with professional finish options:
- Uniform Gloss: High-gloss finish for vibrant, eye-catching graphics
- Sophisticated Matte: Non-reflective matte for upscale, contemporary look
- Glare Reduction: Matte finish reduces glare for better visibility
- Enhanced Readability: Less glare means text and graphics are easier to read
- Surface Uniformity: Consistent finish across entire graphic
- Professional Polish: Finished appearance that commands attention
4. Abrasion Protection
Physical barrier protects against wear in high-traffic areas:
- Scratch Resistance: Protective layer prevents minor scratches and scuffs
- Wear Durability: Graphics withstand daily handling and contact
- High-Traffic Performance: Ideal for door handles, edges, contact areas
- Environmental Protection: Shields against rain, dirt, road debris
- Extended Service Life: Physical protection adds years to graphic lifespan
- Professional Appearance: Graphics stay pristine longer
Cast Film Advantages
Why cast overlaminate matters for professional applications:
- Superior Conformability: Conforms to curves, rivets, and complex contours
- Dimensional Stability: Minimal shrinkage ensures long-term graphic integrity
- Optical Clarity: True color reproduction without haze or distortion
- Thin Profile: 1.5-mil thickness provides protection without excessive bulk
- Professional Finish: Smooth, uniform appearance without texture show-through
- Vehicle Wrap Compatible: Conforms to automotive contours and curves
- Longevity: Cast construction provides years more durability than calendered
Key Features & Benefits
- Highest Level UV Protection: Industry-leading UV protection for maximum ink lifespan
- 1.5 Mil Cast PVC: Premium cast construction for superior conformability
- Two Finish Options: Gloss or matte for customizable appearance
- Clear Film: Optical clarity maintains true color reproduction
- Permanent Adhesive: Clear, solvent-based for secure bonding
- 8-Year UV Protection Factor: Extends ink life up to 8 years
- Up to 8-Year Outdoor Durability: Vertical exposure, Climate Zone 1
- Wide Temperature Range: -58°F to +230°F service temperature
- Qualified ORAJET Compatible: Specifically designed for ORAJET 3751RA+PS, 3551RA+PS, 3971RA+PS
- Enhanced Installation: Adds structure and stability for smoother application
- Abrasion Protection: Guards against scratches, wear, and environmental damage
- $500 Splice-Free Guarantee: ORAFOL quality commitment
- 2-Year Shelf Life: Extended storage capability
Applications
Vehicle Graphics
- Complete vehicle wraps
- Fleet graphics protection
- Partial wraps and spot graphics
- Racing graphics
- Custom vehicle graphics
- Commercial vehicle wraps
- Luxury vehicle graphics
- Show vehicle wraps
Marine Applications
- Boat hull graphics protection
- Yacht graphics overlaminate
- Personal watercraft wraps
- Marine vessel graphics
- Charter boat branding
- Racing boat graphics
- Sailboat graphics
- Marina fleet graphics
Large Format Graphics
- Panel graphic applications
- Building wraps
- Architectural graphics
- Trade show graphics
- Exhibition displays
- Event graphics
- Museum exhibits
- Retail displays
Commercial Signage
- Long-term outdoor signage
- Monument signs
- Dimensional signage
- Corporate branding
- Facility wayfinding
- Building identification
- Retail signage
- Advertising displays
Technical Specifications
| Product Name: | ORAGUARD® 294 |
| Manufacturer: | ORAFOL |
| Film Type: | High Performance Cast PVC |
| Thickness: | 1.5 mil (without liner and adhesive) |
| Finish Options: | Gloss or Matte |
| Color: | Clear |
| Adhesive: | Clear, Solvent-Based, Permanent |
| Adhesive Power: | 2.74 lb/in (adhered to stainless steel, 24h) |
| Release Liner: | 24# Silicone-Coated Paper, White |
| Temperature Resistance: | -58°F to +230°F (adhered to aluminum) |
| Tensile Strength: | Min. 19 MPa (along and across) |
| Elongation at Break: | Min. 120% (along and across) |
| Outdoor Durability: | Up to 8 years (vertical, Climate Zone 1) |
| UV Protection Extension Factor: | 8 years |
| Shelf Life: | 2 years (68°F/50% relative humidity) |
| Min Application Temperature: | 46°F |
| Film Construction: | Medium to Long-Term Cast PVC Film |
Available Sizes
Roll Widths
- 54 inches - Industry standard width
- 60 inches - Wide format for maximum coverage
Roll Lengths
- 150 feet (50-yard) - Standard production rolls
- 30 feet (10-yard) - Perfect for smaller projects or testing
Recommended ORAJET Digital Print Media
ORAGUARD® 294 is specifically engineered to work with qualified ORAJET digital print media:
- ORAJET® 3751RA+PS: Premium cast wrap film with RapidAir® + ProSlide® technology
- ORAJET® 3551RA+PS: Intermediate calendered film with air-egress and slideability
- ORAJET® 3971RA+PS: High-performance digital media with advanced adhesive
Using ORAGUARD® 294 with qualified ORAJET media ensures optimal adhesion, appearance, UV protection, and warranty coverage. System compatibility has been tested and verified.
Installation Guidelines
Print Media Preparation
- Ink Drying Critical: Allow solvent-based inks to dry at least 24 hours at 70°F (48-72 hours preferred)
- Complete Drying: Ensure inks are completely dry before laminating to prevent silvering
- Surface Clean: Printed media must be clean and free of dust before lamination
- ICC Profiles: Use ORAFOL ICC profiles from www.orafol.com for optimal print results
- Temperature: Allow media and laminate to acclimate to room temperature
Lamination Process
- Use cold lamination process—no heat required during application
- Maintain consistent pressure and speed through laminator
- Ensure proper tension to avoid wrinkles or silvering
- Remove air bubbles immediately during lamination
- Allow laminated graphic to relax before cutting or installation
- Trim and finish edges cleanly for professional appearance
Application to Vehicle/Surface
- Thoroughly clean application surface to remove dust, grease, contamination
- Freshly lacquered or painted surfaces must be completely cured
- Test compatibility of lacquers and paints before application
- Minimum application temperature: 46°F
- Use heat (heat gun) to enhance conformability on curves
- Post-heat all edges, stress points, and complex areas
Critical Success Factors
- Proper Ink Drying: Most important factor—rushing this causes silvering
- Clean Environment: Dust contamination ruins professional finish
- Qualified Media: Use recommended ORAJET media for system compatibility
- Temperature Control: Maintain proper temperatures throughout process
- Quality Control: Inspect lamination before installation
? $500 Splice-Free Guarantee
ORAFOL'S QUALITY COMMITMENT
Every roll guaranteed 100% splice-free or we replace it AND give you $500!
Our Splice Free Guarantee assures you that every roll of ORAGUARD® overlaminate is free from splices.
If you identify a verifiable splice, ORAFOL will:
- ā Promptly replace the roll at no cost
- ā Provide you with $500 as compensation
- ā Ensure your uninterrupted graphic production experience
This unprecedented guarantee demonstrates ORAFOL's confidence in manufacturing quality and commitment to your satisfaction.
Product Highlights
- ā Highest level UV protection - 8-year UV protection extension factor
- ā Premium cast PVC construction - 1.5 mil for superior conformability
- ā Two finish options - gloss or matte for customized appearance
- ā Clear optical clarity - true color reproduction without distortion
- ā Up to 8-year outdoor durability - long-term protection
- ā Enhanced installation - adds structure and stability to prints
- ā Abrasion protection - guards against scratches and wear
- ā Wide temperature range - -58°F to +230°F performance
- ā Qualified ORAJET compatible - engineered system compatibility
- ā $500 Splice-Free Guarantee - ORAFOL quality commitment
With vs. Without Overlamination
| Factor | With ORAGUARD® 294 | Without Overlaminate |
|---|---|---|
| UV Protection | 8-year extension factor | Minimal (ink-dependent) |
| Color Longevity | Years of vibrant colors | Fading within 1-2 years |
| Scratch Resistance | Excellent abrasion protection | Vulnerable to scratches |
| Installation Quality | Enhanced structure, fewer bubbles | More challenging, wrinkles common |
| Appearance | Uniform professional finish | Inconsistent surface |
| Durability | Up to 8 years | 2-3 years typical |
| Warranty Potential | Extended warranties possible | Limited warranty options |
| ROI | Superior (longer life, fewer replacements) | Poor (frequent replacements needed) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is ORAGUARD® 294 described as having "the highest level of UV protection"?
A: ORAGUARD® 294 features an 8-year UV Protection Extension Factor—the highest in ORAFOL's overlaminate lineup. This industry-leading UV protection extends the lifespan of printed inks by up to 8 years, preserving colors and preventing fading far beyond what unprotected graphics achieve. It's specifically engineered with maximum UV absorbers and stabilizers for applications requiring ultimate longevity.
Q: Should I choose gloss or matte finish?
A: Gloss provides vibrant, saturated colors with eye-catching shine—ideal for advertising graphics and traditional vehicle wraps. Matte eliminates glare, enhances readability, and provides a sophisticated contemporary aesthetic—perfect for upscale applications, graphics that will be photographed, or environments with bright lighting. Consider your customer's preferences and the application environment.
Q: Can I use ORAGUARD® 294 on any printed vinyl?
A: ORAGUARD® 294 is specifically recommended for use with qualified ORAJET digital print media: ORAJET 3751RA+PS, 3551RA+PS, and 3971RA+PS. Using it with these qualified media ensures optimal adhesion, appearance, UV protection, and warranty coverage. System compatibility has been tested and verified.
Q: How does overlamination improve installation quality?
A: Overlaminate adds structure and stability to printed graphics, making them easier to handle and install. This reduces wrinkles and bubbles, especially on large panels and complex curves. The added rigidity helps the graphic behave better during squeegee application and conform more uniformly to surfaces.
Q: Why is ink drying time so critical before laminating?
A: Solvent-based inks must be completely dry before laminating to prevent silvering (a milky haze that appears when solvents are trapped under the laminate). Allow at least 24 hours at 70°F, with 48-72 hours preferred. Rushing this step is the #1 cause of lamination failure.
Q: How does ORAGUARD® 294 protect against abrasion?
A: The 1.5-mil cast PVC film creates a protective barrier between the printed ink and the environment. This guards against scratches, scuffs, and wear from daily handling, environmental elements, car washes, and contact. It's especially important for high-traffic areas like door handles and vehicle edges.
Q: What's the expected lifespan with ORAGUARD® 294?
A: Up to 8 years outdoor durability on vertical surfaces in Climate Zone 1, with an 8-year UV Protection Extension Factor for printed inks. Actual lifespan depends on geographic location, UV exposure, environmental conditions, and maintenance. This is significantly longer than unprotected graphics (typically 2-3 years).
Q: Can ORAGUARD® 294 be used on boats?
A: Absolutely! It's specifically recommended for boat wrapping applications. The cast construction conforms to boat hull curves, and the superior UV protection is critical in harsh marine environments with intense sun exposure and saltwater conditions.
Q: What's the difference between 1.5 mil cast overlaminate and thicker films?
A: 1.5-mil thickness provides excellent protection without excessive bulk. This allows better conformability around curves and complex contours while still delivering superior UV protection and abrasion resistance. Thicker isn't always better—cast construction and UV protection matter more than thickness alone.
Q: How does matte finish reduce glare?
A: Matte finish has a textured surface that diffuses light rather than reflecting it directly. This eliminates glare and hot spots, making graphics easier to view and read from any angle—especially important in bright sunlight or under artificial lighting. It also makes graphics photography-friendly.
Q: What temperature range can ORAGUARD® 294 withstand?
A: -58°F to +230°F when adhered to aluminum. This exceptional temperature resistance ensures reliable performance in extreme climates—from arctic cold to desert heat—making it suitable for any geographic location worldwide.
Q: How should I store ORAGUARD® 294?
A: Store at 68°F with 50% relative humidity in original packaging. Shelf life is 2 years when stored properly. Protect from temperature extremes, direct sunlight, and moisture. Allow material to acclimate to room temperature before use.
ICC Profiles & Technical Support
ORAFOL provides comprehensive support for ORAGUARD® 294:
- ICC Profiles: Download at www.orafol.com for optimal print results
- Technical Data Sheets: Complete specifications and recommendations
- Application Guidelines: Detailed lamination and installation instructions
- Technical Support: Expert assistance for questions and troubleshooting
- Email: techsupport-americas@orafol.com
- Website: www.orafol.com
Quality Assurance & Important Information
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.
Surfaces to which the material will be applied must be thoroughly cleaned from dust, grease or any contamination which could affect adhesion. Freshly lacquered or painted surfaces should be completely cured. The compatibility of selected lacquers and paints should be tested by the user prior to application. Films with structured surface are naturally more sensitive than unstructured films. Impurities affect the appearance of structured films and require more frequent cleaning.
California Prop 65 Warning: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
All specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
