application. This can lead to disastrous outcomes that could damage the sign substrate or vinyl adhesive and lead to them needing to be remade.” With this, Dartnell goes on to say that it is important for sign-makers and related companies to understand the requirements of the surface or item that they are cleaning and check that the cleaning product they are using is the right one for that job. “An example we have seen is the use of methylated spirits that have been used solutions is the Vivid multipurpose tool, which he bills as a “game-changer”. The tool works seamlessly across all substrates, which Evans says eliminates the need to switch tools during a job, significantly enhancing productivity. It has been designed exclusively for compatibility with the VeloBlade Nexus system. “With less downtime spent swapping equipment, users can complete more tasks within the same timeframe, ultimately boosting profitability,” he says, adding: “Its ease of use and practicality make it one of the most sought-after products for professionals looking to streamline their operations.” Keep it Clean Also in this market is Sign Trade Supplies, which specialises in aluminium profiles, fixings and components. Head of marketing, Garrick Dartnell says one important product in a sign-maker’s toolkit that is often overlooked in terms of importance, is cleaning products – and this could mean trouble for those who do not pay attention. “They are the foundation of high quality, durable installations,” Dartnell explains, adding: “Cleaning products have come a long way over the last few years with specific formulations that have been created to suit sign industry challenges. “Modern cleaning products are engineered for specific tasks, so it is all too easy to apply the wrong solution to an extensively for panel preparation before vinyl application,” he says, adding: “This leaves a film residue that reduces the bond strength of the adhesive and the lifespan of the installation.” According to Dartnell, Sign Trade Supplies offers an extensive range of products for all types of cleaning requirements. He points to Nortex Graphic Solutions in particular, saying that this has been formulated with the signs and graphics industry in mind. “This exclusive range of cleaning fluids allows a comprehensive variety of substrates to be cleaned to the level necessary to apply self-adhesive materials or create structural bonds with adhesives and tapes,” he explains. Some examples include Nortex MaxClean Professional Surface Cleaner, which Dartnell says has become an industry favourite for final preparation before applying self-adhesive vinyl and vehicle wrap. Meanwhile, Nortex IsoproX IPA – not to be confused with an IPA of the beer persuasion – is the highest grade of 99.99% pure isopropanol alcohol and is used throughout the sign, graphics, and print industry as a universal cleaner. Clearly, investment in quality tools will benefit sign-makers in the long run. No matter what type of applications you are working on, your choice of tools will have a major impact on the success of the final piece. 50 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 257 - February / March 2025 ▲ Sign Trade Supplies says Nortex MaxClean Professional Surface Cleaner can be used for final preparation before applying self-adhesive vinyl and vehicle wraps SIGN-MAKING TOOLS
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