What Doming Resins are available?

Resins typically fall into one of three classes of materials: epoxy, UV-curable resin & polyurethane. Within each classification, several products are available. For outdoor applications, most companies that specialise in doming such as Duro-Lenz, choose polyurethane. After comparing each material's performance characteristics, you'll see why  polyurethane is the best choice.

Epoxy Resins are popular for doming metal key tags, plaques etc. Available as one or two part systems, epoxies are inexpensive and easier to use than other materials. Because epoxies cure slowly , air bubbles trapped in the resin often rise to the surface & disappear, forming a bubble-free finish. Because sunlight yellows the clear, plastic material, epoxy resins aren't suitable for outdoor use. Plus, due to their softness, epoxy resins can be easily scratched.

Next are UV-Curable Resins which harden after being exposed to a black light. Most UV resins can't withstand prolonged outdoor exposure - after six months in the sun, they begin to yellow. As UV exposure continues from sources like internal lighting, sunlight etc., these resins cure and harden until they become brittle and crack.

Duro-Lenz uses two-part Polyurethane label coating system comprising modified polyols and isocyanates. Although working with polyurethane resins is technically difficult, such resins can withstand long term outdoor exposure.

Because they resist yellowing, polyurethane resins are suitable as a surface coating on all types of plastic self adhesive labels and other signage applications. This includes OEM decorative emblems.

In addition, the material remains flexible and doesn't crack, craze or flake. Polyurethane resins not only weather well, but they also block UV light and, in turn, protect the material they cover. This means the base substrate and printed image will survive longer outdoors.

Almost any standard shape (rectangle, square, oval, elipse, circle etc) can be domed. For simple shapes, we dispense a measures amount of liquid onto the label surface and allow the resin to flow out to the edge and level out. A domed part's height will be around 1.8mm.

Duro-Lenz has two resin systems. One is fully cured in two hours. The other system takes 12 hours to harden and post cures for up to 3 days thereafter. This mix results in a harder, more rigid domed label than the quick cure system. Duro-Lenz domed labels are very tough and can even resist scratching and abrasion.

Duro-Lenz polyurethanes meet world class standards. There are only a few resin systems in the world that will conform to the automotive industry's rigorous specifications for exterior emblems on vehicles. We often say... "our products will generally outlast the products they are being stuck onto". How's that for a statement of confidence?

You can now make an informed decision on what's right for you... and we hope you choose Duro-Lenz.