Instruction Bulletin 5.

27
Release B, Effective January 2005

Application, Maintenance and Removal

3M™ Aircraft Exterior Graphic Film VS7704, VS7322
Description
This bulletin describes the application, maintenance and
removal of 3M™ Aircraft Exterior Graphic Film VS7704
and VS7322.
Other products discussed in this bulletin include:
3M™ Screen Printing Ink Series 1900
3M™ Screen Print Gloss Clear 1920DR
3M™ Screen Print Matte Clear 1930
AKZO Aerodur UVR clearcoat

Scotchprint® Exterior Toner Series 8700/8800

3M™ Edge Sealer 3950 and 4150S and AKZO Aerodur

UVR clear
3M™ Controltac™ Plus Film Remover R-221
3M™ Controltac™ Plus Adhesive Remover R-231
3M™ Graphic Remover System
Note: 3M Commercial Graphics Division has renamed
selected products to better align them with our
brand strategies. For example, inks, edge sealers
and overprint clears no longer carry the Scotchcal
brand name, and marking film is now called
graphic film. The products themselves have not
changed

Compatible Products
Film Screen Printing Electrostatic Imaging Edge Applications and Uses
Ink Overprint Toner Overprint Sealer Applications and Uses
Series Clears Series Clear
VS7704 1900 1920DR 8700/8800 D Multicolor graphics for aircraft exteriors
1930 1920DR D Aircraft identification graphics
AKZO 1930
D Aircraft labels
Aerodur
UVR clear
VS7322 1900 1920DR 8700/8800 8920 ES 3950 D Multicolor graphics for aircraft exterior
1930 1920DR AKZO graphics
AKZO 1930 Aerodur
Aerodur UVR
UVR clear clear

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Instruction Bulletin IB_5.27b-EU-B-Jan05.doc

Note: For the full product names of the 3M products listed
on this page, please see page 1.
Compatible Application Surfaces and Substrates
• Films VS7704: For use on flat surfaces with or without
flush rivets and simple curved surfaces.
Apply to clean, bare, primed or painted aluminum
• Film VS7322: Can be used on a raised bead riveted
surface (maximum dimensions of rivets: 9.5 mm (3/8”)
wide by 3 mm (1/8 inch) high). Apply to clean, bare,
primed or painted aluminum
Limitations of End Uses
3M has identified certain limitations for these films. This
listing is not meant to imply that all other applications are
safe or will provide acceptable performance.
• These films are only for exterior aircraft graphics.
However, the aircraft operator is responsible for
determining if installing this product requires regulatory
approval from the operator’s authorizing agent or
appropriate aviation authorities.
• This film is restricted for sale to properly trained users.
The end user is responsible for determining the
product’s suitability for the end user’s application.
• Do not use in applications that require conformance to
Mil-P-38477A.
• For 3M™ Aircraft Exterior Graphic Film VS7322 only:
Do not use for any regulatory-required graphics.
• For 3M™ Aircraft Exterior Graphic Films VS7704:
Polyester film is not as conformable as other film
constructions, such as vinyl, that may be used on
aircraft. This is a property for all polyester film
constructions on the market. Keep in mind that
polyester film does not conform well over rivets, ridges,
valleys and other contours. Also read the Application
section in the individual Product Bulletins.
• Do not use this film on these surfaces:
- Areas exposed to severe abrasion
- Within 406 mm (16 inches) of leading edges
- Areas exposed to high operating temperatures
- Interior surfaces
- Surfaces exposed to leaking fluids, such as LD-4
- Film VS7704: Raised, bead-riveted surfaces,
unless cut around and film removed from the
raised rivet.
- Covering seams, unless film is completely cut
along seam
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- Hinges, locking mechanisms or other similar
uneven surfaces
- Extreme, sharply rounded or complex curves
• Do not apply film at less than 10°C (50°F). Film may
not have sufficient adhesion at lower application
temperatures.
• Graphics made for automotive Original Equipment
Manufacturers (OEM).
• For optimum film performance, new users of 3M
aircraft exterior graphic films should contact 3M
Technical Service at +49 02131/14-3500 before
fabricating, applying, maintaining or removing this
product.
Health and Safety
When handling any chemical products, read the
manufacturers’ container labels and the Material Safety
Data Sheets (MSDS) for important health, safety and
environmental information.
To obtain MSDS sheets for 3M products:
Electronically, visit us at http://www.3m.com/msds.
When using any equipment, always follow the
manufacturers’ instructions for safe operation.
Shipping and Storage
• Keep film and processed graphic in a clean area away
from excessive moisture and out of direct sunlight.
Maintain the temperature below 38°C (100°F).
• Store rolls horizontally in the shipping carton. Return
partially used rolls to the shipping carton, replace roll-
end inserts and store horizontally.
• Ship cut sheets and fabricated parts flat with minimal
pressure on the stacks or wind them with the film side
out around a core of the following size:
- Films VS7704: at least 200 mm (8 inches)
diameter
- Film VS7322: at least 152 mm (6 inch) diameter
• Unprocessed film has a shelf life of 2 years after receipt.
Processed film has a shelf life of 1 year. However, the
total shelf life of a graphic before and after processing
cannot exceed 2 years.
Note: For the full product names of the 3M products listed Surface Preparation
on this page, please see page 1 and 2.

Do not assume that the surface is clean. All substrates must

Application be cleaned. The surface location and condition determines
Materials which preparation method to use.
• 3MTM surface preparation system Unpainted Exterior
• 1 inch masking tape 1. Clean the surface with a solvent such as 3M™
• Edge sealers Surface Preparation System or isopropyl alcohol,
and wipe dry with clean lint free rags. Do not
Tools allow the solvent to evaporate before wiping.
• 6 to 8 foot (1.8 to 2.4 m) table
2. Repeat until you are sure all contaminants are
• 8 foot (3 m) measuring tape removed.
• Metal straight edge
Primed Exterior
• Clean lint free rags
1. Sand and prepare the final primer coat according
• 3M™ PA-1 Plastic Applicator (gold) to the paint manufacturer’s directions.
• Low friction sleeve
2. Clean the surface with a solvent such as 3M™
• 3M™ RBA-1 Rivet Brush Surface Preparation System or isopropyl alcohol
• Precision cutting tool and wipe dry with clean lint free rags. Do not
allow the solvent to evaporate before wiping.
Key Steps for a Good Application
1. Review the application instructions before starting and Topcoated Exterior
read the Application section in the applicable Product 1. Before applying the graphics to a freshly painted
Bulletin for special application requirements for the surface, the paint must be cured for the time
type of film being applied. recommended by the paint manufacturer. Special
2. Apply all film within 2 years of receipt, and printed or attention must be given to two-part polyurethane
imaged film within 1 year. paint systems and clear coats because these outgas
as they cure. The outgassing will cause bubbling
3. Apply the film only if the air and surface temperatures of the graphic. A minimum of 5 days curing time
are within the range of 10° to 38°C (50° to 100°F). at 21° C (70° F) or above is generally required
4. Make sure the surface is clean. Even newly finished before outgassing decreases to a point where
surfaces must be cleaned before application. bubbles are no longer detectable.
5. Use a sharp PA-1 applicator. 2. Freshly painted surfaces must be cleaned. Clean
the surface with a solvent such as 3M surface
6. Use firm squeegee pressure with overlapping strokes. preparation system or isopropyl alcohol and wipe
7. Overlap adjacent pieces by at least 5 mm (1/4 inch), dry with clean lint free rags. Do not allow the
but not more than 10 mm (1/2 inch). solvent to evaporate before wiping.
8. Remove the premask tape at a 180 degree angle.
9. Work out all air bubbles by pushing the air out to the
nearest edge or perforation.
10. Work the film down into irregular areas with a rivet
brush.
11. Re-squeegee all edges and overlaps after the premask
is removed.
12. Edge seal required edges.
13. Cut the film over all substrate seams, and then edge
seal.

Temperature Requirements
Apply the film only if the air and surface temperatures are
within the range of 10° to 38°C (50° to 100°F).
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Note: For the full product names of the 3M products listed
on this page, please see page 1 and 2.
Registration
1. Position the graphic on the surface following the
airplane manufacturer’s requirements.
2. Make registration marks on the surface to position the
top or side edge of the graphic. See Figure 1.
Important Note
When making registration marks, use a type of marker
approved by the aircraft manufacturer for use on the skin
of the aircraft, except do not use chalk lines, china
markers or grease pencils, which prevent the adhesive
from bonding to the surface.
Figure 1. Registration
3. Tack the graphic in place with thumb pressure in the
upper corners.
4. Hold the rest of the graphic away from the surface to
avoid pre-adhesion. See Figure 3. Using firm, initial
squeegee pressure, begin at the center of the graphic
and work outward in all directions.
Figure 3. Holding the Graphic to Prevent Pre-adhesion
5. To avoid wrinkles, release the tack points before
squeegeeing over them.
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Applying Large Graphics
There are several methods for applying large graphics. Use
the one that works for you. These are some general
suggestions.
1. Choose the method that puts the masking tape hinge
perpendicular to the longest dimension of the graphic.
The Center Hinge Method works well for stripes less
than 305 mm (12 inches) wide. See page 6.
2. On a curved surface, put the hinge so that when the
graphic is folded back it wrinkles as little as possible.
3. Use the Split Liner Method when masking tape is not
available or for horizontal applications. See page 6.
4. Any application method works with a scored liner.
With a double scored liner, remove the liner between
the scored lines and apply the graphic using the Split
Liner Method. See page 6.
Top Horizontal Hinge Method
1. Tape the graphic in place with small pieces of masking
tape. Make a hinge by putting a piece of 51 or 76 mm
(2 or 3 inch) masking tape over the top edge. See
Figure 4.
Figure 4. Making a Hinge
2. Pull the graphic above the top hinge and peel back the
liner a few inches. See Figure 5.
Figure 5. Peeling Back the Liner
3. Hold the graphic away from the surface with one hand.
With firm overlapping squeegee strokes, begin at the
top center. Peel the liner back a few inches at a time.
Allow the adhesive to touch only as pressure is applied.
Work down and out to each edge. See Figure 6.

Figure 8. Cutting Off the Liner

3. Remove the tape hinge. See Figure 9.

Figure 6. Squeegeeing the Graphic

4. Remove the tape hinge and re-squeegee the edges.

Center Hinge Method

1. Tape the graphic in place with small pieces of masking
tape. Make a hinge by putting a piece of 1 or 2 inch
(25 or 51 mm) masking tape through the center of the
graphic either vertically or horizontally. The best place
to put the tape is perpendicular to the longest
dimension of the graphic. See Figure 7. Figure 9. Remove the Tape Hinge
4. Fold over the other side of the graphic, remove the
liner, and squeegee the film down using the same firm
overlapping strokes used in Step 2. See Figure 10.

Figure 7. Making a Center Hinge

2. Fold half the graphic back over the hinge. Peel the
liner off the graphic as far back as the tape hinge. Cut Figure 10. Squeegeeing the Graphic
the liner along the hinge and discard. Hold the graphic
away from the surface with one hand. With firm
overlapping squeegee strokes, begin in the center and
work the shortest distance to the edge. See Figure 8. Split Liner Method
1. Place the graphic face down on a flat surface. Peel
Caution back the liner and cut off about 1/3 of the liner. See
When cutting the liner, use care not to damage the Figure 11.
skin of the aircraft. Use rather a snitty.

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Instruction Bulletin IB_5.27b-EU-B-Jan05.doc

Figure 11. Removing a Third of the Liner
2. Move the liner so that 25 to 51 mm (1 to 2 inches) of
the adhesive is exposed. Gently squeegee the liner
back down with the plastic side next to the adhesive.
See Figure 12.
Figure 12. Moving the Liner
3. Position the graphic on the aircraft. Squeegee the area
of exposed adhesive. This will now act as a hinge.
Figure 13. Moving the Liner
4. Remove the liner and apply the rest of the graphic just
as you did in Step 2 of the Center Hinge Method. See
Figure 14.
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Figure 14. Applying the Rest of the Graphic
Applying Large Pre-Spaced
Graphics
1. Position the graphic on the aircraft and tape in place
using the Horizontal Top Hinge Method as discussed
on page 5. See Figure 18.
Figure 18. Making a Top Hinge
2. Create an independent top hinge for each letter or
number by cutting through the premask and into the
masking tape. See Figure 19.
Figure 19. Creating a Top Hinge for Each Character
3. Remove the liner and squeegee each letter or number
separately using firm overlapping strokes. Be sure to
squeegee the areas where there is just premask. This
helps prevent wrinkles and misalignment.
Note: For the full product names of the 3M products listed
on this page, please see page 1.
Finishing Steps
1. Remove the premask by pulling it back on itself at a
180 degree angle. Squeegee the film wherever it is not
firmly bonded to the surface. Using a felt squeegee or
SA-1 low friction sleeve on a plastic squeegee will help
to prevent scratching of the film surface. Re-squeegee
all edges and overlaps using very firm pressure.
2. Cut the graphic on all substrate seams with a razor
blade (in a holder) or similar cutting tool. Re-squeegee
the edges or use a rivet brush.
3. Look for bubbles in the flat areas. To remove a bubble,
puncture it at one end with a pin or round pointed tool;
never use a razor blade. Move toward the hole with a
finger and press out the trapped air. See Figure 20.
4. Work the film down into the irregular areas with a rivet
brush.
Figure 20. Puncturing Bubbles
Edge Sealing
Caution
When using edge sealer, an improper application,
failing to allow the edge sealer to cure properly, or
incompatibility with the substrate may result in a
serious product failure, including the graphics lifting
off the surface.
Edge sealing helps to reduce film abrasion due to wind and
rain. The sealer also improves the film’s resistance to
fluids. Use the edge sealer specified below:
• For film VS7704 use edge sealer 4150S or AKZO
Aerodur UVR
• For film VS7322, use edge sealer 3950 or AKZO
Aerodur UVR.
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These areas must be edge sealed:
• Leading edges of the film.
• Edges where the graphic has been cut for doors, access
panels and similar items.
• Any cut out repair areas where the film overlaps film.
Apply the edge sealer with 1 cm brush. Place the brush so
that it covers both the aircraft surface and film equally. Pull
it along the edge in a smooth, continuous motion.
Storage of Edge Sealers
Edge sealers should be stored in a cool, dry place and
should be used within one year of data of purchase.
Containers should be tightly capped after each use.
Film Overlaps
Vertical Overlaps
Apply the first piece on the rear of the aircraft. The next
piece must overlap the first one about 5 mm, but not more
than 10 mm.
Horizontal Overlaps
Apply the lower piece first. The next piece must overlap
the lower one
Note: For the full product names of the 3M products listed
on this page, please see page 1 and 2.
Maintenance
Inspection
Graphics should be periodically inspected for lifted, frayed
or torn areas. Repair damaged areas immediately. Please
contact 3M Technical Service at +49 2131/14-3500 to
report any such performance problems.
Cleaning
Graphics damaged by improper cleaning are not covered by
the 3M warranty. Use a wet cleaner suitable for high
quality painted surfaces. The cleaner must be:
• Non-abrasive.
• Neither highly acidic, less than pH 3, nor highly
alkaline, greater than pH 11.
• Free of strong aromatic solvents, chlorinated solvents
and ketone containing solvents, like acetone and methyl
ethyl ketone.
Repairing Damaged Areas
Caution
Before handling any chemical products, always read the
container label and the MSDS.

1. Mask around the damaged area with 5 cm (2 inch)

masking tape. This will keep the primer on the
damaged area. It is not necessary to mask the
windows.
2. Remove lifted, frayed, or torn film.
3. Cut a replacement patch 6 mm +/- 3 mm (1/4 inch
+/- 1/8 inch) larger than the repair area.
4. Clean the area thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol.
5. Apply the film following the usual application
method.
6. Edge seal all the edges with the recommended
edge sealer. See the Edge Sealing section to the
left

Removal of Films VS7704

Caution
When using any equipment, always follow the Heat Gun Removal Method
manufacturers’ instructions for safe operation.

Caution
Solvents may ignite near heat or open flame. Do not
use heat sources near solvents. Failure to avoid the
use of heat sources near solvents can cause flash fire.
Important Note
Before using a heat gun, consult the aircraft manufacturer
regarding the maximum temperature to which the skin of
the aircraft can be heated without affecting surface
integrity.

There several methods that can be used to remove film.
The methods provided here are listed in the order of ease of
use. Typically, we recommend using the easiest method.
However, you may need to use one of the other methods,
depending on graphic size, condition and length of service
use.
Material that has not been on the aircraft too long may be
removed by using an industrial heat gun. Heat one corner
of the graphic. Slide a razor blade (in a blade holder) or
knife edge under the corner to loosen the graphic. Be
careful not to damage the substrate. Slowly pull the film at
an angle less than 90 degrees and heat the area immediately
ahead.

Steam Removal Method

Some customers have indicated that a professional steaming
unit, such as a wallpaper steamer (Bosch PTL1), may be
used to soften the film, before removing it. This procedure
may be used on a customer test-and-approve basis. Follow
the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the
steaming unit. Once softened, slowly pull the film at an
angle less than 90 degrees to maximize the amount of
adhesive that is removed.

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Note: For the full product names of the 3M products listed
on this page, please see page 1 and 2.
Chemical Removal Methods
3M™ Graphic Remover System (where available)
Where the product is available, 3M Graphic Remover
System can be used to remove film VS7704 . Please
consult your 3M Sales or Technical Service Representative
for details.
Paint Stripper
The same method used to strip paint from the aircraft will
also remove aircraft film.
Primer and Tape
In this method, an adhesive primer is applied and then a
tape. The tape strengthens the film and makes it easier to
remove. It works better to have two people working
together removing one stripe at a time. The following
materials, tools, temperature and procedure refer to the
Primer and Tape method.
Materials Needed
• Scotch™ Masking Tape, 51 mm (2 inch)
• 3M™ Fastbond™ Adhesive 30NF
• Scotch™ Box Sealing Tape 375, 101 mm (4 inch)
• Cleaners and Removers
- 3M™ Adhesive Remover 8908, or
- 3M™ Natural Cleaner, or
- 3M™ Stripe Remover 8907, or
- 3M™ Citrus Base Industrial Cleaner
Tools Needed
• Paint roller
• Paint tray
• Utility knife
• Blade holder and single edge razor blades
• Hard plastic scraper
• 3M™ PA-1 plastic applicator (gold or blue)
• 76 to 101 mm (3 to 4 inch) diameter PVC tube
with handle
Note: All 3M brand and Scotch brand products are
available from 3M Commercial Graphics
Division
Temperature Requirements
For the best results, work when the air and surface
temperatures are 20° to 32°C (60° to 90°F).
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Primer and Tape Removal Procedure
Caution
Before handling any chemical products, always read the
container label and the MSDS.
1. Break the film loose from any edge sealer using a
sharp, hard plastic tool.
2. It may be possible to skip the priming step and still
remove the film by applying Scotch box sealing
tape 375 to aircraft exterior graphic films. Test the
film by going through Steps 6 to 10 without
putting the primer down.
3. Begin at the aft at an exposed leading edge, like a
door. With a paint roller, roll the primer on the
graphic in a thin even coat. Work toward the fore
about eight feet. Stop at a graphic overlap.
4. Allow the adhesive to dry 10 minutes, or until it is
tacky to the touch.
5. Within 60 minutes after coating the primer, start at
the back section applying the tape 375.
6. Put tape 375 perpendicular to the long dimension
of graphic with a PA-1 plastic applicator. Work
methodically from the top down. Carefully
squeegee out all the air between tape 375 and the
primer.
7. Continue applying tape overlapping each section
from the aft to the fore over the rest of the primed
area.
8. Start at the aft of the primed and taped section.
Carefully lift the trailing edge. Pull the taped
graphic at an angle. The angle between the aircraft
skin and the taped section should be less than 90
degrees. Work in the direction of the longest
dimension of the graphic section.
9. When a 152 mm (6 inch) piece has been removed,
attach it to a 101 mm (4 inch) diameter PVC tube.
Twist the tube slowly forward on the graphic. The
film should begin to roll onto the tube and to
remove from the side of the aircraft.
10. Watch the adhesive side of the graphic for tears or
adhesive splitting. If the graphic tears, lift the torn
flap and stick it to the remover tape and the PVC
tube. If the adhesive splits, change the pulling
angle and speed.
11. Use an adhesive remover or any other airline
approved solvent to remove any adhesive left
behind. After using the adhesive remover, clean
the surface with isopropyl alcohol.
 Storage
Removal of Film VS7322 The film remover and adhesive remover may be stored
Note: For the full product names of the 3M products listed unopened for up to 3 years from purchase without affecting
on this page, please see page 1 and 2. product performance. The maximum storage life is 3 years
from receipt from 3M with these exceptions:
Caution • The storage life is 1 year after opening the container.
When using any equipment, always follow the • The product may be stored up to 2 years unopened and 1
manufacturers’ instructions for safe operation. year open.
Coverage Rates
Caution Listed below are the approximate coverage rates for film
Solvents may ignite near heat or open flame. Do not remover R-221 and adhesive remover R-231 when used on
use heat sources near solvents. Failure to avoid the film VS7322.
use of heat sources near solvents can cause flash fire.
Product Rate
Film remover R-221 3.7 square meters/liter
Steam Removal Method
(150 square feet/gallon)
Some customers have indicated that a professional steaming
unit, such as a wallpaper steamer, may be used to soften the Adhesive remover R-231 37 square meters/liter
film, before removing it. This procedure may be used on a (1500 square feet/gallon*)
customer test-and-approve basis. Follow the instructions * Based on the maximum adhesive residue left by 37
provided by the manufacturer of the steaming unit. Once square meters (1500 square feet) of film.
softened, slowly pull the film at an angle less than 90
degrees to maximize the amount of adhesive that is Removal Conditions
removed.
Condition Rate
Heat Gun Removal
First try to remove the film with an industrial heat gun. Minimum surface temperature 50°F (10°C)
Film that has not been on the aircraft too long may be Number of applications of film 1
removed this way. Heat the corner of the graphic. Slide a remover R-221
razor blade (in a blade holder), or a knife edge, under the
corner to loosen the graphic. Be careful not to damage the Minimum drying time for film 15 minutes
substrate. Slowly pull the film at an angle less than 90 remover R-221
degrees, and then heat the area immediately ahead. Minimum drying time for 30 seconds
adhesive remover R-231
Paint Stripper Removal
The same method used to strip paint from the aircraft may Key Steps To a Faster, Cleaner Removal
be used to remove film VS7322. 1. The graphic to be removed must be film VS7322.
3M™ Graphic Remover System (where available) 2. Read the removal instructions.
Where the product is available, 3M Graphic Remover 3. Wash the graphic and the surface around the graphic.
System can be used to remove film VS7322. Please consult
your 3M Sales or Technical Service Representative for 4. Dry the surface and the graphic.
details. 5. Be sure that the surface temperature is at least 10°C
(50°F).
3M™ Film Remover R-221 and Adhesive Remover
R-231 6. If the surface is painted, test the surface for possible
The removal system consists of film remover R-221 and paint damage.
adhesive remover R-231. This system is compatible with 7. Mask off the area surrounding the graphic.
aluminum surfaces.
8. Construct a drip trough.
Limitation of the System
Equipment List
Always test before using! The removal system may
damage certain paints or finishes. To determine the • 2.5 cm (1 inch) wide masking tape
suitability of the system, test the remover in a small, • Paper towels
unmarked and inconspicuous area. • Paint brush or paint roller
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• Plastic applicator
• Rivet brush
• Plastic squeeze bottle or trigger-type bottle
• Appropriate safety equipment. See the MSDS for
recommendations.
Removal Procedure
Caution
Before handling any chemical products, always read the
container label and the MSDS.
Caution
When using any equipment, always follow the
manufacturers’ instructions for safe operation.
Caution
Solvents may ignite near heat or open flame. Do not
use heat sources near solvents. Failure to avoid the
use of heat sources near solvents can cause flash fire.
1. Film remover R-221 and adhesive remover R-231 is a
system for removing film VS7322 only. If you are
unsure of what type of film you are trying to remove,
follow the Heat Removal Method or Paint Stripper
Removal Method on page 12, but attempt to remove
only a small piece of the film. If adhesive residue
exceeds approximately 25 percent after the film has
been removed, this removal system is NOT
recommended for use.
2. Make certain that the surface temperature is at least
10°C (50°F). If it is 29°C (85°F) or above, move the
vehicle to a shaded area.
3. Check for possible paint damage.
a. Using a paint brush or sponge-type roller,
thoroughly wet a small area of the painted surface
with film remover R-221.
b. Allow the remover to dry for at least 15 minutes.
If the ambient temperature is below 21°C (70°F),
longer drying time is required; see Drying Time
Requirements.
c. Peel the dried film remover from the painted
surface.
d. Check for paint or substrate damage. If any
occurs, the remover system is specifically NOT
RECOMMENDED.
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4. Be sure you have all the required equipment; see
Equipment List on page 13. Use all recommended
safety procedures including the wearing of unvented
goggles and appropriate gloves.
5. Clean the surface and film with detergent and water.
Dry the surface thoroughly before proceeding.
6. To minimize cleanup of film remover R-221, one of
the following two methods should be used:
a. Mask the surface around the film and make a “drip
trough” with masking tape or cardboard to prevent
residue from dripping onto surfaces around the
film.
b. Spray the surface around the edge of the film with
a commercially-available release agent, such as
vegetable cooking spray. Form a “drip trough”
with masking tape or cardboard along the bottom
to prevent residue dripping onto the surface below
the film. Care should be taken to ensure that the
release agent is not sprayed onto the graphic which
is to be removed. Any release agent accidentally
sprayed onto the graphic must be wiped off.
Note: Film remover R-221 is extremely difficult to remove
from weathered paint; therefore, it is imperative that
the surface around the graphic be masked off or
sprayed with a release agent.
7. Using a paint brush or roller, thoroughly coat the
graphic film remover R-221. Keep the container
covered when not in use to prevent rapid evaporation
of solvent.
8. Allow film remover R-221 to dry for at least 15
minutes after application. Cooler temperatures require
additional drying time.
Drying Time Requirements for Film Remover R-221
Temperature Approximate Drying Time
27°C (80°F) 15-20 minutes
21°C (70°F) 15-30 minutes
16°C (60°F) 15-45 minutes
10°C (50°F) 30-60 minutes or longer
9. Test for removability by grasping a corner of the film
and pulling from the surface at less than a 90 degree
angle with gentle/moderate force.
10. The film should stretch like rubber while being
removed; if it is brittle, stop, apply a second coat, let
dry and proceed with the removal.
11. When the film has been completely removed, pull off
the masking tape but leave the drip trough.
12. Fill a squeeze or trigger-type bottle with adhesive Limitation of Liability.
remover R-231. Squirt this liquid in 1 square foot Except where prohibited by law, 3M SHALL NOT
sections onto any adhesive residue remaining. Allow UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES BE LIABLE TO
the liquid to penetrate for at least 30 seconds, but not PURCHASER OR USER FOR ANY DIRECT,
longer than 60 seconds. INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR
13. Remove the adhesive by scraping with a plastic CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT
applicator or rivet brush. Once loosened, wipe the NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF PROFITS, REVENUE,
residue with a cloth saturated with adhesive remover. BUSINESS, OPPORTUNITY, OR GOODWILL)
Repeat these steps if necessary. RESULTING FROM OR IN ANY WAY RELATED TO
SELLER’S PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. This limitation
14. Remove the drip trough. Clean the entire surface with of liability applies regardless of the legal or equitable
a solvent wipe, followed by a wash with detergent and theory under which such losses or damages are sought
water. Dry the surface. including breach of contract, breach of warranty,
15. Failure to properly wash and remove all excess negligence, strict liability, or any other legal or equitable
adhesive remover will adversely affect the adhesion of theory.
new graphics applied to the surface.
For Further Assistance
Note: If new graphics are to be applied, the surface must
For help on specific questions relating to 3M Commercial
be solvent wiped following the procedures outlined
Graphics products, please contact your local 3M Technical
in Instruction Bulletin 5.27.
service person or contact:
Disposal of Waste 3M Deutschland GmbH
Commercial Graphics Division
Caution Carl-Schurz-Straße 1
Adhesive or film removers, and solvent wipes or film D-41453 Neuss
wetter with the removers, should be incinerated in a Germany
permitted hazardous waste incinerator. Since Phone +49 (0) 2131 14 3500
regulations vary, consult the applicable regulations or Fax +49 (0) 2131 14 2377
authorities before disposal. Internet: www.scotchprint.com
The use of trademark signs and brand names in this bulletin
is based upon US standards. These standards may vary
Disclaimer of Warranty, Limited from country to country outside the USA.
Remedy, and Important Notice
3M MAKES NO FURTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY
OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR
IMPLIED WARRANTY ARISING OUT OF A COURSE
OF DEALING, CUSTOM, OR USAGE OF TRADE. User
is a sophisticated purchaser and responsible for determining
whether the 3M product is fit for its particular purpose and
suitable for user’s method of application. Many factors can
affect the use and performance of this 3M product in a
particular application. The materials to which the product
will be adhered , the surface preparation of those materials,
the product selected for use, the conditions in which the
product is used, and the time and environmental conditions
in which the product is expected to perform are among the
many factors that can affect the use and performance of a
3M product. Given these variety of factors, many of which
are uniquely within the user’s knowledge and control, it is
essential that the user evaluate the 3M product to determine
whether it is fit for a particular purpose and suitable for the
user’s method of application.

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Instruction Bulletin IB_5.27b-EU-B-Jan05.doc