Architectural window film is a retrofit product designed to enhance glass performance. It is a polyester film construction generally made of Polyethylene Teraphthalate (PET). Most films are applied to the interior surface of a glass window in a home, commercial building, or vehicle. They have a scratch resistant coating on the outer surface to protect the film.
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There are many types of window films. Some are clear and feature multiple layers of PET to offer protection from shattering glass; others are tinted with metals, dyes, or pigments to reduce the visible light transmitted through the glass, and block heat coming through from the sun. There are even decorative window films that can replicate the look of frosted glass or etched patterns.
Window film can benefit residential and commercial spaces in a variety of ways. One of the most popular uses for window film is in climate and energy control. Window film significantly reduces solar heat gain through windows allowing a space to maintain its internal temperature and eliminating hot spots. Hot spots are temperature inconstancies between one part of a building and another and are relatively common. The energy savings also results in reduced HVAC equipment wear and maintenance.
Window film also aides in fade mitigation by blocking damaging ultraviolet rays. Valuable furnishings such as carpets, furniture, and artwork all benefit from the reduction in ultraviolet rays streaming through the home or office windows.
Annoying glare can also be controlled through the use of window film. Window film is a popular choice in many homes and office buildings where certain areas of the space are prone to strong glare from the sun making it uncomfortable to work or relax.
Buildings with dated looking windows can benefit from window film. The installation of film is an inexpensive and easy way to improve the overall aesthetics of a building or residence.
Decorative window films allow easy retrofit of existing glass with an array of patterns to compliment any décor. With decorative film the distinctive look of etched glass can be achieved at a fraction of the cost of actual etched glass. The designer films also allow private, interior glass spaces to be created while still welcoming in light.
Safety and security film products protect a building's occupants from the hazards of flying glass by holding glass shards in place in the event of a window breaking, preventing serious injuries.
Common applications include homes, commercial buildings, retail spaces, restaurants, museums, schools and daycare centers and health care facilities, and more. (See WBDG Building Types and Space Types)
Quality window films are high-tech and feature a variety of high-performance attributes. These features include patented scratch resistant coatings, sputtered coatings, or vacuum metallization, and nano-particle pigmentation.
Window film is designed with longevity in mind. Many window film manufacturers offer a warranty of up to 15 years for commercial installations, and for as long as a person owns their home for residential applications. The effective life of window film will vary by the type of film, type of glass, window construction, compass orientation of glass, and in which part of the world the building is located.
The performance and durability of the window film selected is determined by the types and quality of the components and construction used.
The essential components include:
a = release liner with silicone coating
b = adhesive layer with UV inhibitor
c = clear or tinted polyester film
d = adhesive layer
e = metallized layer for heat rejection on clear polyester film
f = scratch-resistant coating
Protective Release Liner a film, usually polyester, which is used to cover the adhesive and protect it from contamination before installation
Adhesive high quality, low or zero distortion adhesives that adheres the polyester film to glass; types used for automotive installations retain high adhesion even on double curved glass
Polyester Film a strong, high clarity, high quality plastic film - more than one layer may be used with a laminating adhesive to produce a multi-layered structure
Scratch Resistant Coating a hard acrylic coating that provides protection for the polyester against scratching and abrasion
Dyes, metals, alloys and UV inhibitors are added to produce the specific properties desired.
The film manufacturing processes consists of five main processes, each requiring care to ensure the highest quality is obtained.
Coating: Material is transferred from a container onto a large roller, then from the roller onto the surface of polyester film. Examples include scratch resistant surfaces and adhesives.
Laminating: A film coated with adhesive is adhered to a second uncoated film, using a roller system to press the two films together.
Metallizing: A roll of polyester film is wound round a water-cooled roller in a large metal chamber, and the air is pumped out to produce a vacuum. A metal, usually aluminum is evaporated onto the cold surface of the film; very few metals evaporate in a vacuum so sputtering is used for other metals. Metallizing is a fast process compared to sputtering.
Sputtering: Equipment very similar to metallizing is used, but a metal or alloy target is bombarded with positive ions to knock (sputter) atoms of metal out of the target and onto the cold film surface. A large number of different metals and alloys can be sputtered. Metals used in sputtering, such as Nickel, can also have extra resistance to corrosion.
Coloring: Colors may be added to the adhesive before coating onto the polyester (as above) or the polyester film may be deep dyed. The color produced is usually a mixture of different dyes; in general, better durability is obtained using deep dyeing processes.
The five key measurements to consider when selecting a window film are visible light, visible light transmitted, visible light reflected interior, visible light reflected exterior, and the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). Understanding all of film's solar optical properties will help designers, property owners, and homeowners be better informed regarding the product that will best meet an individual property's unique needs.
Total Solar Energy: all the energy in the solar spectrum that reaches us on the earth's surface. This includes UVA and B, Visible light, and Infrared energy up to roughly nm. Heat often refers to the total solar energy.
Total Solar Energy: Transmitted: the amount of total solar energy that passes through the glass into the building.
Total Solar Energy: Reflected: the amount of total solar energy that is reflected off of the glass and directed back outside. This energy does not come into the building.
Total Solar Energy: Absorbed: the amount of total solar energy that is absorbed in the glass. This heats up the glass, making it hotter to the touch, and reradiates a small amount of heat back into the room. The majority of absorbed energy is kept out of the room though.
Visible Light: the portion of the solar spectrum containing visible light we can see, from roughly 370nm up to 770nm, contains all the colors of the spectrum.
Visible Light - Transmitted: the amount of visible light that passes through the glass, into the building. This is how light or dark the film is.
Visible Light - Reflected Interior: the amount of visible light that is reflected off the interior surface of the window. This is seen when standing inside the building looking out. A higher reflectance value means the window looks more like a mirror from the inside.
Visible Light - Reflected Exterior: the amount of visible light that is reflected off the exterior surface of the window. This is seen when standing outside the building, a higher reflectance value means the window looks more like a mirror from the outside.
U Factor (winter): heat transfer due to temperature differences outside and inside. It represents the amount of heat passing through 1 sq. ft. of glass in 1 hour for every 1 degree temperature difference between the outside and inside. A lower value means less heat passes through, this is generally of interest when desiring to keep heat inside the building in cold climates.
Emissivity: the ability of the surface to reflect infrared energy. For window film, this means how much heat it will reradiate back into a room. Low E glass and films have low emissivities, which mean they reflect a lot of heat back into the room, which is the desired effect in cold climates.
Ultraviolet Light Rejected: the amount of UV energy blocked by the film, either by reflecting or absorbing it. This energy does not enter the building.
Glare Reduction: the reduction in visible light transmitted compared to clear unfilmed glass.
Luminous Efficacy: the ratio of visible light transmission to solar heat transmission for a window. A higher luminous efficacy means the film has high heat rejection given its VLT.
Shading Coefficient: the ratio of heat passing through a filmed window to heat passing through clear, unfilmed glass. A lower number means better heat rejection.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient: similar to the shading coefficient, except this value also takes into account energy that is reradiated back into the room from the glass heating up due to increased absorption. Again, a lower number means better heat rejection. It is the primary indicator of a film's effectiveness in rejecting solar energy.
Infrared Rejection: the amount of infrared (IR) energy that is blocked by the film, either by reflecting or absorbing. This value is for the whole IR region of the solar spectrum, roughly 780nm up to nm.
Total Solar Energy Rejected: the total amount of solar energy that is kept out of the building. This is commonly referred to as heat rejection.
According to the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), 40% of global energy is consumed by commercial buildings. Roughly 1/3 of the power consumption of a commercial building is due to excess load placed on HVAC systems due to solar heat gain.
High efficiency window films can reduce Solar Heat Gain by 5075%, often without making a drastic change in aesthetics from either the interior or exterior view; unless you choose to in order to reach a specific objective. Window films help to manage Solar Heat Gain by controlling the transmission, absorption and reflection of solar energy.
It's a simple equation, if the heat is kept out of the box then less energy is spent to cool the box. Or the transverse, in the winter, control heat loss with high efficiency window films.
Think of window film as a filter, reflecting or absorbing much of the heat produced as well as other damaging elements of solar energy such as Infrared Light and Ultraviolet Light.
Both UV and IR are invisible to the human eye so blocking these has no impact on desirable visible light through a window. While allowing portions of the more desirable visible light to pass through; energy control window films can capture or control the damaging UV and IR light and filter the visible light to a desirable level.
Window film as a retrofit solution can be one of the quickest and simplest ECM's (energy conservation measures) available, as well as the most cost effective. In regard to new construction, window film can be used as an energy control boost to glass performance and/or to achieve a desired look.
There are six factors affecting fabric fading:
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Clear single pane glass (1/8" to 1/4") will reject 2328% of the ultraviolet light from the sun. Insulated glass is slightly better, rejecting 3641%. Window films installed on glass reject 9599% of solar ultraviolet light. Different types of clear glass and window systems will reject 1329% of the solar heat. With window films, 80% solar heat rejection can be obtained.
No window film can eliminate fading. It can, however, offer maximum protection from fading due to solar ultraviolet light and solar heat. (Source, IWFA, http://www.iwfa.com/consumer/FAQs.aspx)
The cheapest, cleanest, most environmentally conscious energy on the planet is the energy that doesn't' have to be used. The three biggest areas of opportunity for conserving energy in a building are: HVAC, lighting, and the building envelope.
Most companies start with lighting because it is quick, easy, and typically cost-effective. The envelope is the most often overlooked opportunity to save energy and money. As simple as it sounds, turning off a light, not making unnecessary trips, and filming windows are simple, cost-effective, and passive ways to conserve energy and offset greenhouse gas emissions.
Some of the major commercial building certification programs operating in the U.S. are ENERGY STAR by the U.S. Dept. of Energy, LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), and GreenGlobes. Window film can help improve a building's score in these programs and can even be the deciding factor that allows a building to become certified.
The ENERGY STAR Building Certification score uses a 100 point rating scale. The score is based on four criteria - utility consumption, building type, building size, and building location. A score of 75 is required for certification. The scale is used to rate how efficient a building is compared to similar buildings around the country.
A building's score can vary considerably and the effects of window film can be large or small. A window film that reduces electric consumption by 10% annually can add 6 points to a building's ENERGY STAR score in Boston and 8 points to a building in Los Angeles. It is difficult to predict what the improvement score will be, but it can be significant enough to push a building past the 75 point minimum for certification and also open up more available points in LEED certification, as outlined later.
Solar control window film can gain points in the following three categories for LEED Certification Energy and Atmosphere Optimize Energy Efficiency Performance (118 points, earn same number of points as gained in building's Energy Star score), Indoor Environmental Quality (1 point), and Daylight and Views (1 point).
Window film is now certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). The NFRC is a nonprofit organization that administers the only uniform, independent rating and labeling system for the energy performance of windows, doors, skylights, and attachment products.
There are a three energy analysis programs that are used in conjunction to assist in determining the energy savings available for a specific buildingOptics, WINDOW and Efilm.
Optics is a program that accesses the International Glazing Database (IGDB). The IGDB is a repository of all the NFRC glazing, glass, and film information. This program is used to create film and glass combinations that can then be used in "WINDOW" to add frames, dividers, and gases to model a window. Windows created in "WINDOW" are then utilized in the Efilm energy analysis software program.
Efilm is a software program specially designed for the window film industry. It analyzes how energy consumption changes with the addition of window film.
The software runs on the Department of Energy's EnergyPlus 8.0 simulation engine. It is similar to eQuest and was commissioned to be developed by the International Window Film Association (IWFA) and several major window film manufacturers.
Efilm creates a 3D model of a building, using defined building parameters such as:
Safety and security window films have been tested to perform against many recognized standards such as basic personal safety ratings like ANSI Z97.1 to large scale blast mitigation (GSA).
ANSI Z97.1 is a standard that establishes the specifications and methods of test for the safety properties of safety glazing materials (glazing materials designed to promote safety and reduce the likelihood of cutting and piercing injuries when the glazing materials are broken by human contact) as used for all building and architectural purposes.
GSA-TS01- , takes it further by standardizing blast pressure testing. This test standard is intended to ensure an adequate measure of standardization and quality assurance in the testing of window systems including but not limited to glazing, sealants, seats and seals, frames, anchorages and all attachments and/or secondary catcher or restraint mechanisms designed to mitigate the hazards from flying glass and debris. This standard is the sole test protocol by which blast resistant windows and related hazard mitigation technology and products shall be evaluated for facilities under the control and responsibility of the US General Services Administration (GSA).
Safety and security films can improve all glazing types in blast mitigation. Annealed, tempered, and even laminated glass can be unsafe when subject to a blast. Safety film can be attached to the glass and also, if needed, to the frame to retain the film/glass combination, preventing glass from entering the building.
Safety and security films have been protecting human lives against accidental and intentional injury since their inception in the 's. They offer protection from criminal intrusion, natural disasters, man-made disasters, industrial accidents, bomb-blasts, burglaries, and more.
The Challenge: 's Sarasota, FL building's exterior needed to be modernized. The building featured rows of dark green vision glass, between rows of opaque green spandrel glass, creating a dated look.
The Solution: 38,000 sq. ft. of glass was filmed with an exterior grey film, creating a more modern, cohesive look.
The Results: The building looks 30 years younger and electric consumption was reduced by over 200,000 killowatt hours each year, saving thousands in cooling costs.
The Challenge: A restaurant located in an arena, and featuring a 4,603 sq. ft. wall of glass, was experiencing occupant discomfort due to hot spots and glare.
The Solution: A solar control film that matched the existing windows in other parts of the arena was applied to help regulate the temperature and reduce glare.
The Results: Diners no longer request to be reseated, saving the staff time and increasing the overall efficiency of the restaurant.
The Challenge: A hospital needed to find a way to offer its patients protection from flying glass in the case of a natural or man-made disaster as well as protect its millions of dollars' worth of state of the art medical equipment from damage.
The Solution: 15 and 8 mil film was installed along with various attachment systems to meet the hospital's varying requirements. The film is designed to hold broken shards of glass together and along with the attachment systems, provides 24 hour protection against vandalism, severe weather, acts of terrorism and industrial accidents.
The Results: With the added layer of safety at the facility, staff members no longer need to spend time relocating patients when a threat is near because they know the windows are secured. This is especially important for patients on the intensive care floors and unable to be safely moved. The hospital's valuable medical equipment is also now better secured through the protection of the windows.
DTF, or direct-to-film, is a printing method that transfers designs directly onto film, which is then used to transfer the design onto a garment or other surface. This method is often used in the textile industry, specifically for printing on t-shirts and other apparel. DTF printing has become increasingly popular due to its cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and versatility.
DTF printing works by printing the design onto a specially coated film using a DTF printer. The film is then placed onto the garment or surface to be printed and heat pressed, which transfers the ink from the film onto the material. This process eliminates the need for a separate transfer paper, reducing printing costs and overall production time.
When it comes to DTF printing, choosing the right printer is crucial for achieving high-quality prints. Look for a printer with advanced features like high resolution and color accuracy to ensure your designs come out as intended. Its also essential to choose a printer compatible with the type of film you will be using and the specific type of garment or surface youll be printing on.
DTF printing is just one of several methods for transferring designs onto garments and other surfaces. Other popular transfer methods include screen printing, heat transfer vinyl (HTV), and dye sublimation. While each method has its advantages and limitations, DTF printing stands out for its cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and versatility. With DTF printing, you can create high-quality prints quickly and efficiently, making it a popular choice for businesses of all sizes.
DTF transfer film is preferred over other transfer techniques such as screen printing, DTG (Direct to Garment), and vinyl because it is cost-effective, easy to use, and delivers excellent and long-lasting results. DTF transfer film is perfect for printing on-demand, allowing businesses and hobbyists to accept more customized orders without any minimum quantities. DTF transfer film also offers better handling of challenging and complicated designs, and it can print up to dpi with no flickering.
DTF Film has significantly impacted the print-on-demand industry, allowing businesses to work on a small scale and satisfy customer demand without needing inventory. DTF Film offers exceptional quality reproduction of images that can meet customers expectations. With DTF, you can print small runs of posters, decals, and T-shirts with high resolution and excellent results that reflect the original design file. Moreover, DTF Film allows bright colors and gradients, creating the perfect finishing touch for A4-sized prints.
DTF Film is also well-suited for heat transfer onto textiles such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, and tote bags. DTF transfers on fabrics are wash-resistant and have a soft print texture that does not crack or peel like other transfer methods. DTF transfer film can print on different materials, including cotton, polyester, and blends, providing flexibility for various business applications. It is a highly efficient solution for printing on-demand designs and promotional materials.
DTF transfer film has opened up innovative ways for DIY craft enthusiasts to personalize their projects. The transfer method is easy to use and can be applied to varying surfaces like wood, glass, ceramic, etc. DTF transfer film provides an ideal way to print logos, images, and graphics on craft projects and embellished garments with high resolution and vivid colors. Its ease of application allows limitless creativity in designing customized DIY projects for home decor and personalized gifts.
Finally, the compatibility of DTF transfer film with different fabrics is worth mentioning. With heat transfer being a popular method for garment decoration, DTF film provides enhanced transfer compatibility. It easily transfers to natural fabrics like cotton and linen and synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon. DTF transfers onto other fabrics, including nylon, polyester, silk, and even stretchy, spandex-based materials. The versatility of DTF film makes it an excellent addition to the garment decoration industry.
Here are some of the most common issues you may face when using DTF film and how to troubleshoot them:
Image quality problems: Poor image quality is a common issue that several factors including dirty printheads, incorrect ink settings, and low-quality film, can cause. Ensure you clean your printheads regularly and check that the ink settings are correct. Moreover, be sure to use DTF film that is compatible with your printer and has a high resolution.
Film not sticking to the garment: If the DTF film does not attach to the garment, it can be due to various causes, such as the wrong pressure setting, incorrect peel time, or using bad transfer paper. Adjust your pressure, peel time settings correctly,, and use good-quality transfer paper to avoid this issue.
Film tearing or breaking: Film tearing or breaking can occur for several reasons, such as the wrong tension control or incorrect load settings. Check the load settings and try to adjust the tension control in the printer. Using higher-quality film can also help prevent this from happening.
DTF printers and films are not always compatible with each other, which can cause various problems and affect print quality. When choosing an ink film for your DTF printer, ensuring it is compatible with your printer model is essential. Most manufacturers provide a list of compatible movies, so check this before making a purchase.
Ensure that your printers settings match your ink film specifications to achieve optimal results. If youre having trouble with compatibility, try contacting your manufacturers customer support for assistance, or check out the official forums of the printer and film manufacturer to see if any other users have reported similar issues.
To achieve the best results with DTF printing, you must pay close attention to several critical factors, including the type of ink, printer quality, and the type of garment. Here are some tips to help you achieve optimal results:
Use high-quality DTF film with a high resolution and color gamut. This ensures that the image is sharp, clear, and vibrant.
Choose a compatible printer that has a high resolution, supports fine details, and has advanced color management features.
Take into account the type of garment while choosing the ink. Different materials require different inks; using the wrong ink can cause poor adhesion or color fading.
Adjust the printer settings for pressure, speed, and temperature per the manufacturers guidelines. These settings are crucial to achieving optimal results with your DTF printer.
Peeling and transferring the DTF film from the backing paper to the garment is another critical step in printing. Here are some tips to help you avoid standard peel-and-transfer issues:
Adjust your peel time and pressure accurately using the printers settings before printing. This ensures that the DTF film can be peeled away from the backing paper quickly without leaving any residue or causing the design to lift.
Use a sharp-edge spatula or scraper to lift the design carefully. Be careful not to damage the image or garment during peeling.
Use a transparent transfer tape or paper, making it easier to see the design and ensure it has been placed precisely where you want it on the garment.
When shopping for a DTF film package, here are a few tips to help you make an informed and effective buying decision:
Choose film packages with good adhesion and easy to peel (without leaving residue) to ensure smooth and trouble-free printing.
Look for packages that have a high resolution, color gamut, and a high-quality print finish. This ensures that the final results are sharp, clear, and vibrant.
Choose packages with the right size and type of film sheets and transfer papers for your printing needs. This ensures youre not wasting time or resources by using sheets that are not a perfect fit with your printer.
DTF film can be used for more than just garment printing. This technology can also apply designs on surfaces such as hard plastic, wood, glass, ceramic, and metal. It is also used in several non-fashion industries, including automotive, signage, and industrial labeling.
Conclusion:
Direct-to-film (DTF) printing is a highly versatile and efficient printing technology that has revolutionized the garment industry. Though, like every printing
First, I will introduce readers to the top DTF film suppliers and retailers. These include Colman and Company, Hengning, DTG Mart, Midwest Sign & Screen Printing Supply Co., and Epson. Each supplier offers a wide range of DTF films and related supplies, such as printers, ink, coating powder, and adhesive powder. It is important to note that prices and package deals may vary depending on the supplier, so readers should take the time to compare options before making their purchase.
With so many suppliers and retailers offering DTF film and related supplies, it can be challenging to determine which one offers the best prices and deals. For readers looking to save money, I recommend checking out the bundles and kits many suppliers provide. These packages often include a combination of DTF film, ink, coating powder, and adhesive powder and can be a cost-effective option for those just starting with DTF printing.
Another important consideration when purchasing DTF film is quality. To help readers make an informed decision, this article will include reviews and recommendations for popular DTF film packages. In addition to product reviews from verified buyers, the report will also feature insights and feedback from printing professionals working with different film types.
In an age where e-commerce dominates the marketplace, knowing where to find DTF films on popular online platforms such as Amazon and eBay is essential. This section of the article will provide readers with tips and guidance on how to search for DTF film and related supplies on these platforms and ensure they purchase from reputable sellers.
Finally, this article will explore potential sponsorship and partnership opportunities for businesses looking to break into the DTF printing market. By partnering with a reputable DTF film supplier or retailer, enterprises of all sizes can position themselves as industry experts and connect with their target audience through valuable content and resources.
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