In the world of safety and style, segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl has emerged as a breakthrough solution, combining high-visibility performance with unparalleled design flexibility.
What is segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl?
Segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl is a type of reflective material that is processed by heat transfer. Unlike traditional reflective heat transfer vinyl, this innovative HTV is cut into segments by laser and then heat-stamped with the substrate by flat ironing, transfer ironing or high-frequency ironing under specific pressure, temperature and time using a heat press. This design not only improves the reflective effect of the material, but also makes it an ideal choice for applications that require high standards of safety and aesthetics.
YGM’s advanced segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl production process
YGM’s booth is very conspicuous and its layout is very brand-specific. It displays YGM’s popular products in a concise and clear manner, including reflective tape for clothing, reflective heat transfer vinyl, flame-retardant warning tapes, etc. It also displays some reflective fabrics and safety clothing. The various reflective products attracted many visitors. These visitors are involved in various industries, which helps YGM expand the audience of reflective materials.
Advantages of segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl
Segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl combines high visibility with a sense of fashion. This technology brings many benefits to manufacturers and users in the field of reflective products. The following are the advantages of segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl:
(1) Improved visibility and safety
Unlike traditional reflective heat transfer vinyl, segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl is laser cut into segments, highlighting its reflective properties, allowing the wearer to be seen at a greater distance or in darker conditions, significantly improving personal safety.
(2) Flexible and customizable styles
Segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl does not limit creativity, but enhances it. Segments allow for complex and customizable designs. Users can create unique styles, which opens up new possibilities for branding and personalizing sports equipment, workwear, fashion items, etc.
(3) Easy weeding
One of the outstanding advantages of segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl is its easy weeding. The segmented design simplifies the weeding process, that is, removing excess material, minimizing material waste.
Comparison of base fabrics for segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl
The base fabrics for segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl are mainly PES and TPU. The following is a comparison of these two base fabrics.
| PES | TPU | |
| Water washability | Good | Good |
| Heat pressing temperature | 130℃-150℃ | Adjustable（120-150℃） |
| Elasticity | Slightly elastic | Elasticity adjustable |
| Application | Application: suitable for fabric materials such as T/C, webbing, polyester, and fabrics with no or slightly elastic requirements | Suitable for fabric materials such as T/C, webbing, polyester, fabrics with high requirements for elasticity, and coated fabrics such as PU and TPU |
Substrates Not Suitable for Segmented Reflective Heat Transfer Vinyl
Segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl is not suitable for all substrates. The following are the main substrates that are not recommended for segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl:
(1) Waterproofing treated substrates
Waterproofing treated substrates are usually resistant to adhesion due to their protective coating. As a result, the vinyl may not adhere properly, resulting in peeling and poor performance.
(2) PET
PET is sensitive to high temperatures. The heat required for heat transfer vinyl may cause the PET fabric to shrink or deform, destroying the fabric’s structural integrity and aesthetics.
(3) Nylon
Nylon fabric is known for its excellent abrasion resistance, chemical resistance and electrical insulation properties. However, similar to PET, high temperatures can cause nylon to shrink or warp.
(4) Plastics and PVC that are not heat resistant
These materials will melt, deform, or emit harmful fumes when exposed to the high temperatures required for effective vinyl transfers and are not recommended for use.
How to use segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl
The steps of using segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl are mainly divided into four steps, namely preparing the required materials, cutting and weeding, heat transfer, cooling and peeling
(1) Prepare the required materials: First, you need to choose the reflective heat transfer vinyl of the appropriate size according to your needs. In addition, you need to prepare a crochet hook, iron and fabric.
(2) Cutting and weeding: Use a laser cutter to cut the reflective heat transfer vinyl into the required segments, and then use a crochet hook to remove the excess vinyl material around the cut.
(3) Heat transfer process
- l Adjust the iron to the appropriate temperature (usually 130-150℃)
- l Place the segmented reflective vinyl at the desired location on the fabric with the carrier film facing up
- l Press the iron and move slowly to prevent any area from overheating. The whole process lasts for 10-12 seconds
- l After ironing is completed, focus on the edge for an additional 10-15 seconds to fix the edge
(4) Cooling and peeling
Do not remove the carrier film immediately after ironing. Wait for the vinyl to cool completely at room temperature. This helps the vinyl to fully bond to the fabric. After cooling, gently peel off the carrier film from one corner.
If you follow these steps strictly, you will be able to get a perfect segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl.
Application of diagonal reflective heat transfer stickers
Segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl can meet various needs, from safety requirements to fashion sense.
Safety clothing: The main application of segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl is safety clothing. Especially the high-visibility clothing required by construction workers, road police and outdoor sportsmen. Segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl is clearly visible in low-light conditions, thus reducing the risk of accidents for the wearer.
Fashion clothing: In addition to its application in safety clothing, segmented heat transfer vinyl has gradually penetrated into the field of fashion clothing. Fashion clothing, bags, shoes and accessories with reflective parts can not only improve visibility, but also make these clothing more eye-catching.
Summary
It turns out that segmented reflective heat transfer vinyl is one of the major breakthroughs of traditional reflective heat transfer vinyl, because it combines important safety with beautiful flexibility, so it has gradually become an indispensable reflective material in all walks of life. As the demand for multifunctional materials continues to grow, segmented reflective vinyl materials will meet future challenges with bright and innovative solutions.
——Eden Zhang
