Product Description
UPM Raflatac 382S Clear Gloss Overlaminate - 3.0 Mil PVC with UV Protection - Premium Transparent Laminate for Digital Print Protection
Crystal Clear Protection with UV Defense
UPM Raflatac 382S (382S-UVP3-HKL-GNE) is a premium 3.0-mil transparent gloss overlaminate specifically engineered to protect and enhance digital large format inkjet prints. This self-adhesive monomeric soft-PVC film features built-in UV absorbers that shield your valuable graphics from sun damage and color fading, significantly extending outdoor life and maintaining vibrant colors over time. The crystal-clear transparency ensures your graphics remain brilliant and true to their original colors, while the permanent clear adhesive bonds securely to protect prints from scratches, scuffs, moisture, and environmental contaminants. With 3-year durability for inside applications (and short-term outdoor use in moderate climates), excellent dimensional stability (>160% stretch at break), and superior tear resistance (>26 MPa), this professional-grade overlaminate delivers reliable protection for wide-format digital prints. Whether protecting retail graphics, trade show displays, vehicle decals, or outdoor signage, UPM Raflatac 382S provides the crystal-clear barrier your prints need to maintain their professional appearance and maximize return on investment. Manufactured by UPM Raflatac Graphics Solutions to the highest quality standards, this overlaminate represents proven protection technology trusted by professional print providers worldwide.
Advanced UV Protection Technology
The integrated UV absorbers in 382S provide critical protection against sun damage:
Color Fade Prevention
UV absorbers shield inks from damaging ultraviolet rays that cause colors to fade, bleach, or shift over time.
Extended Outdoor Life
Significantly prolongs the lifespan of outdoor graphics by reducing UV-induced degradation of both film and inks.
Vibrant Color Retention
Prints maintain their original brilliance and saturation far longer than unprotected graphics exposed to sunlight.
Professional Longevity
Investment in UV protection translates to longer-lasting graphics, better ROI, and satisfied customers.
Key Features
- 3.0 Mil Thickness: Substantial protection without excessive bulk
- Crystal Clear Transparency: Maintains true color brilliance of printed graphics
- UV Absorbers: Built-in protection against sun damage and color fading
- Glossy Finish: Enhances colors and provides professional sheen
- Permanent Clear Adhesive: Strong, long-term bond (14 +/- 6 N/25mm)
- Monomeric Soft-PVC: Excellent conformability for flat surfaces
- 3-Year Durability: Inside applications and short-term outdoor (moderate climates)
- Excellent Dimensional Stability: >160% stretch at break minimizes shrinkage
- Superior Tear Resistance: >26 MPa for durability during handling and installation
- Wide Temperature Range: Service temperature -22°F to +176°F
- UPM Raflatac Quality: Manufactured to highest quality standards
- 2-Year Shelf Life: Extended storage stability in original packaging
Crystal Clear Transparency
The transparent gloss finish of 382S provides multiple advantages:
- True Color Reproduction: No color shift or distortion—graphics appear exactly as printed
- Enhanced Brilliance: Gloss finish amplifies color saturation and vibrancy
- Professional Appearance: Clean, polished look elevates graphic quality
- Light Reflection: Glossy surface catches light for better visibility
- Invisible Protection: Protective layer doesn't detract from graphic design
- Wet Look: Enhances depth and richness of printed images
Applications
Retail Graphics
- Window displays and signage
- In-store promotional graphics
- Point-of-purchase displays
- Product photography displays
- Backlit retail signage
- Counter and floor graphics
- Shelf talkers and price cards
Trade Show Displays
- Booth graphics and panels
- Banner stand graphics
- Tabletop displays
- Product showcase graphics
- Promotional displays
- Exhibit signage
- Reusable display graphics
Vehicle Graphics
- Fleet vehicle decals
- Partial vehicle graphics
- Vehicle lettering
- Window decals
- Door panel graphics
- Trailer graphics
- Equipment labels
Commercial Signage
- Indoor directional signs
- Short-term outdoor signage
- Office graphics
- Facility wayfinding
- Safety and compliance signs
- Informational graphics
- Building identification
Indoor Graphics
- Wall graphics and murals
- Photographic displays
- Museum exhibits
- Gallery prints
- Corporate branding
- Restaurant décor
- Hotel lobby graphics
Outdoor Graphics (Short-Term)
- Event signage
- Promotional campaigns
- Seasonal graphics
- Temporary outdoor signs
- Construction site graphics
- Real estate signage
- Limited-time advertising
Technical Specifications
Face Film
| Material: | Self-adhesive monomeric soft-PVC |
| Finish: | Transparent glossy |
| Thickness (Caliper): | 3.0 mil (TAPPI-411) |
| Stretch at Break (MD): | >160% (DIN EN ISO 527) |
| Tear Resistance (MD): | >26 MPa (DIN EN ISO 527) |
| UV Protection: | Built-in UV absorbers |
Adhesive (UVP3)
| Type: | Permanent |
| Composition: | Clear, permanent adhesive |
| Adhesive Strength: | 14 +/- 6 N/25mm (FTM 1, 24h on glass) |
Backing (HKL)
| Material: | Bleached kraft siliconized paper |
| Substance Weight: | 55 lbs/ream |
| Caliper: | 3.2 mil (TAPPI-411) |
Performance Characteristics
| Durability: | 3 years* (inside applications; short-term outdoor) |
| Rec. Application Temperature: | Minimum +10°F |
| Product Application Temp: | -22°F to +176°F |
| Shelf Life: | 2 years at 73°F/50% humidity in original packaging |
*Normal storage and handling conditions. For inside applications and short term for outside under middle-European climate conditions, unprinted.
Comprehensive Protection
UV Damage Prevention
Absorbs harmful UV rays before they reach your printed inks, preventing fading, bleaching, and color shifts.
Scratch & Abrasion Resistance
3.0-mil film shields prints from scratches, scuffs, and surface abrasion during handling and use.
Moisture Barrier
Protects prints from water, humidity, and environmental moisture that can damage unprotected inks.
Chemical Resistance
Shields graphics from common cleaning products, mild chemicals, and environmental contaminants.
Graffiti Protection
Makes it easier to clean marks and graffiti without damaging the underlying print.
Extended Graphics Life
Combined protection significantly extends the useful life of expensive digital prints.
Strong Permanent Bond
The UVP3 clear permanent adhesive system provides reliable long-term performance:
- High Initial Tack: 14 +/- 6 N/25mm adhesive strength ensures secure bonding
- Clear Composition: Transparent adhesive maintains graphic clarity
- Permanent Bond: Designed for long-term protection, not removal
- Universal Compatibility: Bonds well to most printed vinyl substrates
- No Edge Lifting: Strong adhesion prevents peeling at corners and edges
- Bubble-Free Application: Allows air release for smooth installation
Excellent Dimensional Stability
Superior physical properties ensure reliable performance:
- >160% Stretch at Break: High elongation accommodates substrate expansion/contraction
- >26 MPa Tear Resistance: Strong film resists tearing during installation and use
- Minimal Shrinkage: Excellent dimensional stability prevents graphic distortion
- Temperature Stable: Performs from -22°F to +176°F without distortion
- Conformable: Monomeric soft-PVC adapts to flat and gently curved surfaces
Installation Best Practices
Before Installation
- Allow printed graphics to dry/cure thoroughly (48-72 hours for solvent inks recommended)
- Ensure installation environment is at least +10°F
- Allow laminate to acclimate to room temperature before use
- Inspect printed graphic for defects before laminating
- Use clean, lint-free tools and gloves to avoid contamination
Application Process
- Use professional laminating equipment for best results
- Cold lamination recommended for most applications
- Maintain consistent speed and pressure during lamination
- Use appropriate nip roller pressure for substrate thickness
- Work out any air bubbles immediately during application
- Trim excess laminate cleanly for professional edges
Post-Installation
- Allow 24 hours for full adhesive bond before cutting or handling
- Store laminated graphics flat if not installing immediately
- Follow substrate manufacturer's installation guidelines
- Ensure laminated graphic is within application temperature range before final installation
Durability & Longevity
Indoor Applications: 3 Years
Optimal durability for interior graphics with UV protection from windows and artificial lighting.
Short-Term Outdoor: Moderate Climates
Suitable for temporary outdoor applications in middle-European climate conditions:
- Limited direct sun exposure
- Moderate temperature ranges
- Seasonal campaigns
- Event graphics
- Protected outdoor locations
Factors Affecting Durability
- UV Exposure: Direct sunlight reduces outdoor lifespan
- Climate: Extreme heat, cold, or humidity affects performance
- Orientation: Vertical surfaces last longer than horizontal
- Ink System: UV and solvent inks provide best outdoor performance
- Maintenance: Proper cleaning extends graphic life
Compatible Substrates
382S Clear Gloss Overlaminate bonds securely to most printable vinyl substrates:
- ✓ Calendered print vinyls
- ✓ Cast print vinyls
- ✓ Monomeric print films
- ✓ Polymeric print films
- ✓ Inkjet printable vinyls
- ✓ Digital print media
- ✓ Solvent printable films
- ✓ Eco-solvent printable films
- ✓ UV printable vinyls
- ✓ Latex printable media
Always test compatibility with specific substrate before full production. Some specialty films may require specific laminates.
Storage & Handling
- Store at 73°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
- Allow material to acclimate to room temperature before use
- Handle with clean hands/gloves to avoid fingerprints and contamination
- Reseal partial rolls to prevent dust contamination
UPM Raflatac Graphics Solutions Quality
Manufactured to the highest quality standards with stringent quality controls:
- Premium Manufacturing: State-of-the-art production facilities
- Rigorous Testing: Comprehensive quality controls prior to dispatch
- Manufacturing Warranty: Defective materials replaced promptly without charge
- Technical Support: Expert assistance available for application questions
- Proven Performance: Based on extensive testing and practical experience
- Global Standards: Meets international quality and performance requirements
Warranty Details
UPM Raflatac Graphics Solutions materials showing evident manufacturing defects will be replaced promptly without charge. Due to the wide range of applications, preliminary tests are recommended for each new use. The UPM Raflatac Graphics Solutions technical department is available to assist with advice and technical support.
Professional Application Tips
Ink Drying Critical
Ensure solvent and eco-solvent inks are fully dry (48-72 hours recommended) before laminating to prevent silvering and ink migration.
Temperature Matters
Maintain minimum +10°F application temperature. Cold laminate and substrates can cause adhesive failure and silvering.
Clean Environment
Laminate in a clean, dust-free area. Particles trapped under laminate create visible imperfections.
Proper Equipment
Use professional laminating equipment with appropriate nip roller pressure for consistent, bubble-free results.
Test First
Always test laminate compatibility with new substrates and inks before production runs.
Trim Carefully
Use sharp blades for clean edges. Dull blades can cause edge lifting and unprofessional appearance.
Product Highlights
- ✓ 3.0 mil crystal clear gloss overlaminate - professional protection
- ✓ Built-in UV absorbers - prevents color fading and sun damage
- ✓ Transparent glossy finish - enhances colors and brilliance
- ✓ Permanent clear adhesive - strong, long-term bond (14 +/- 6 N/25mm)
- ✓ 3-year indoor durability - reliable protection for interior graphics
- ✓ Monomeric soft-PVC - excellent conformability for flat surfaces
- ✓ >160% stretch at break - superior dimensional stability
- ✓ >26 MPa tear resistance - durable during installation and use
- ✓ Wide temperature range - -22°F to +176°F service temperature
- ✓ UPM Raflatac quality - manufactured to highest standards
- ✓ 2-year shelf life - extended storage stability
- ✓ Universal compatibility - works with most printable vinyl substrates
Why Choose 382S Clear Gloss Overlaminate?
| Feature | 382S with UV Protection | Unprotected Prints |
|---|---|---|
| UV Protection | Built-in UV absorbers prevent fading | Direct UV exposure causes rapid fading |
| Scratch Resistance | 3.0 mil protective layer | Prints vulnerable to damage |
| Moisture Protection | Sealed barrier against moisture | Water can damage inks |
| Color Longevity | Significantly extended | Fades quickly outdoors |
| Professional Appearance | Glossy, polished finish | Flat, unenhanced look |
| Durability | 3 years indoor; short-term outdoor | Months without protection |
| Return on Investment | Maximum graphic lifespan | Frequent replacement needed |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does "UV absorbers" mean and why are they important?
A: UV absorbers are chemical compounds embedded in the laminate that absorb harmful ultraviolet rays from sunlight before they reach the printed inks below. Without UV protection, outdoor graphics fade rapidly—sometimes in just weeks. UV absorbers extend color life dramatically, protecting your investment and maintaining professional appearance much longer.
Q: Can I use 382S for long-term outdoor graphics?
A: 382S is rated for 3 years for inside applications and short-term outdoor use in moderate (middle-European) climates. For extended outdoor exposure in harsh climates or direct sun, consider premium outdoor laminates specifically rated for 5-7+ year outdoor durability.
Q: Will the clear laminate change the color of my prints?
A: No. The crystal-clear transparency maintains true color reproduction. The glossy finish actually enhances color vibrancy and saturation, making graphics appear more brilliant and professional.
Q: How long should I wait after printing before laminating?
A: For solvent and eco-solvent inks, wait 48-72 hours for complete drying/curing. UV and latex inks can typically be laminated immediately after printing. Premature lamination can cause silvering (cloudy appearance) and ink migration issues.
Q: What's the minimum application temperature?
A: The recommended minimum application temperature is +10°F. Cold temperatures affect adhesive performance and can cause application failures. Always allow materials to acclimate to room temperature before laminating.
Q: Can I use 382S with my laminating machine?
A: Yes! 382S is designed for professional cold laminating equipment. Ensure your machine has appropriate nip roller pressure settings and maintain consistent speed during lamination for bubble-free results.
Q: Is this laminate permanent or removable?
A: 382S features permanent adhesive designed for long-term protection. It's not intended for removal or repositioning once applied. The laminate and print substrate bond together as a permanent system.
Q: What's the difference between gloss and matte laminates?
A: Gloss laminates like 382S have a shiny, reflective finish that enhances colors and provides a "wet look" for maximum visual impact. Matte laminates have a non-reflective finish that reduces glare and provides a more subdued, sophisticated appearance. Choice depends on application and aesthetic preference.
Q: Will this laminate work on all vinyl substrates?
A: 382S bonds well to most calendered and cast printable vinyl films. However, always test compatibility with your specific substrate before full production, as some specialty films may require specific laminates.
Q: How do I prevent silvering (cloudy appearance)?
A: Silvering is typically caused by: (1) insufficient ink drying time, (2) cold application temperatures, (3) incompatible substrates, or (4) trapped moisture. Ensure inks are fully dry, maintain proper application temperature, test substrate compatibility, and work in a clean, dry environment.
Q: Can I laminate vehicle graphics with 382S?
A: Yes, 382S can be used for vehicle decals and graphics on flat or gently curved areas. However, for complex curves and full vehicle wraps, consider laminates specifically designed for vehicle applications with higher conformability.
Q: What's the shelf life of 382S?
A: When stored properly at 73°F with 50% relative humidity in original packaging, 382S has a 2-year shelf life from date of manufacture. Always check expiration dates and use oldest stock first.
Quality Assurance & Warranty
UPM Raflatac Graphics Solutions materials are manufactured according to the highest quality standards and pass stringent quality controls prior to dispatch. Any material showing an evident defect of manufacturing will be replaced promptly without charge. Due to the wide range of different applications, preliminary tests are recommended for each new application. The UPM Raflatac Graphics Solutions technical department is pleased to assist with advice and technical support.
California Prop 65 Warning: This product may expose you to Di-isodecyl phthalate (DIDP; CAS RN: 26761-40-0), a substance known to the State of California to cause birth defect or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
