![]() Today, this product is still marketed as heli tape in certain global markets, even though it is rarely used for its intended original purpose. Inexpensive, relatively easy to apply and replace, and resistant to UV degradation and common aviation fluids, this film was an instant success.ĭue to its ability to conform to almost any surface, and then form a tight bond with whatever it was allowed to cure atop, this film became commonly referred to as helicopter tape, or “heli tape” for short. By modifying the chemical structure of a super strong urethane film, 3M’s engineers had developed a product that could withstand both significant amounts of elemental abuse, and moderate surface damage from things like artillery shrapnel. military was presented with what appeared to be a solid solution to its chopper problem. ![]() The textile and chemical giant was gung-ho about finding a solution to this problem, and tasked some of its greatest minds with developing a protective layer that could be just as resilient as it was transparent and lightweight.īefore long, the U.S. set out to find a solution, which is precisely when good old 3M comes into the picture. This was especially apparent on areas like rotor blades, and across surfaces carrying sensitive military equipment.Īccording to automotive experts, the D.O.D. Department of Defense (D.O.D.) was receiving one report after another of helicopters being significantly damaged by shrapnel and debris. It was the height of the Vietnam War, and the U.S. Much like America’s favorite lubricant, (we’re talking about WD-40 here… pervert), paint protection film was not originally intended for automobiles or civilian use, but was developed as a tool for military operations. What is Paint Protection Film? Photo Credit: 3M A Little PPF History Lesson So let’s shovel through the bullshit, and get down to the facts, because there’s much to be gained by having a paint protection film installed on your automobile, and a lot that can go wrong as well… The pendulum swings both ways too, with the pros and cons of PPF either being overly exaggerated, or completely understated. That said, there’s still a lot of confusion out there over what PPF can and cannot do, especially when exposed to extreme situations. This disposable “skin” protects a car’s clear coat, as well as the paint beneath it from things like surface scratches, UV exposure, hard water deposits, acid rain, oxidation, and various other unpleasantries. PPF consists of an ultra-thin polyurethane, or polymer, which when properly applied by a professional (typically an auto detailing or vinyl installation expert), forms a transparent protective surface layer. Not familiar with PPF? Here’s a quick rundown on what it’s made from, and how it works. On the upside, an increased demand for automotive paint protection film (PPF) in recent years has eliminated many of these clear coat conundrums. While the paint underneath may be completely fine, due to the clear coat taking the brunt of the abuse, it’s going to look like complete crap due to the damage resting atop it. While the clear coat that rests atop a vehicle’s paintwork is engineered to serve as a frontline defense against the elements, this transparent coating has its own inherent weaknesses and drawbacks.įaded, peeled, cracked, scratched, oxidized, and discolored clear coats can be seen on cars everywhere, rolling reminders of what happens when you neglect to clean and protect your automobile. When recoated with Prime Coating High Performance ProClear ClearCoats, the result is a high gloss, weather resistant top coat.When it comes to protecting a car’s paint, there are a plethora of directions you can take. All solid, metallic and pearl colors can be mixed with utilitizing the ProMix Formula Retrieval System. It is suitable for universal use on all passenger vehicles. ProMix by Unleashed is a High Quality Low VOC Urethane BaseCoat System designed to provide excellent coverage and color accuracy for Automotive Refinish applications. Product Description ProMix Low VOC Automotive Paint
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