! Caution
Heat or open flames may contribute to a flash fire or
burns. Follow these precautions when using a heat
source for flame treating.
• Read and follow the instructions supplied with the
heat source.
• Avoid personal contact with the heat source. Wear
heat-resistant gloves and safety glasses.
• Do not use heat sources near solvent mixtures or
residues, or where solvent vapors may be present.
! Caution
Always provide adequate ventilation to remove
emissions that result from the heat of flame treating.
Failure to provide adequate ventilation can result in
operator exposure.
Flame treating changes the molecular structure of the substrate. It oxidizes a very thin layer of the substrate allowing the adhesive to wet the surface and make a good bond.
Separate the port from the vessel name with a sharp knife or razor blade. We use a single edge razor blade held in a box knife.
Remove the backing from the lettering. The lettering will stick to the transfer tape. If it does not, try squeeging the transfer tape first to make sure that the lettering really sticks.
Line up your lettering that is stuck to the transfer tape. If you don't get it in just the right spot you can pull the lettering up at this time. Give it a quick jerk!
Once you get the lettering in the right spot, squeegee it down. Work with small strokes and don't be afraid to apply pressure.
Gently remove the transfer tape by pulling it back along itself. Do not try to pull up at a 90 degree angle since this tends to lift the lettering. If removal is difficult, spray the transfer tape with water.
Install the low friction sleeve on your squeegee and squeegee the lettering down. This requires a fair amount of force. The better your job here, the longer the lettering will last.
Pop any trapped air bubbles with the straight pin and force the vinyl down to the life ring with you thumbnail. If necessary squeegee once again with the low friction sleeve.
Congratulations, you have installed your first lettering! Now install the vessel name and you are finished.
revised 1/2021