How to Use a Rivet Vinyl Brush
Installing vinyl over rivets on trucks, machinery, and other metal surfaces is a challenge for all new sign and vehicle wrap installers. In every industry, it is often the simplest of tools that helps get the job done cleanly and efficiently, and the lowly rivet brush is no exception. Made of stiff bristle natural or synthetic fiber, the rivet brush helps form flexible vinyl over the rivet surface. But of course, it's not always that simple. Air pockets between vinyl and raised surfaces are a way of life, and must be removed first, and cold surface and material temperatures must also be dealt with to make the vinyl pliable. Although it's not a job for the impatient person, vinyl-over-rivet installation can be relatively painless by following some simple, proven steps.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Signmaker's vinyl application squeegee
- Signmaker's air pocket remover or pin-knife
- Electric heat gun or adjustable propane torch
- Rivet brush
- Rag lightly dampened with water
Instructions
-
Squeegee
-
1
Apply pressure to the vinyl with the squeegee, followed by the rivet brush, over and around the vinyl, creating a dome.
-
2
Remove air pockets with the air pocket remover tool or pin-knife, by poking four to six holes through the vinyl around the outside circumference of the rivet.
-
-
3
Apply light, even heat to the vinyl for 2 or 3 seconds, with an electric heat gun or propane torch, placed about 8 to 10 inches from the surface. Take care not to melt or overheat material. A little heat, applied two or more times if needed, is better than melting and ruining the entire job.
-
4
Apply pressure again to the heated vinyl with the rivet brush, shaping it around the rivet seam. Apply more heat if necessary.
-
5
Remove additional air pockets that may form by the application of heat, and repeat other steps in the process if necessary.
-
6
Wipe the area with a rag, lightly dampened with water. The rag will dissipate heat from the area, and remove any mild discoloration or blackening caused by heat application.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Follow standard procedures and vinyl manufacturer's recommendations for surface preparation.
Rivet brushes are available in several sizes to suit all rivets.
Small cuts with a razor knife, rather than pin-holes with a pin-knife, may be necessary to remove air pockets on very large rivet work.
Do not use the wet application method when working with rivets and vinyl.
Use caution when working with sharp pin-knife tools.
Use caution while working with heating tools. Keep tools away from hair, clothing, skin, tools, and flammable substances.
