Oracal vinyl is a popular medium used by everyone from DIY crafters to professional sign makers. When it comes to high-quality cast vinyl films, two of the most popular options are Oracal 951 and 751.
But what is the difference between these two vinyl types and which one is best for your project? This comprehensive guide examines the pros, cons, features and ideal uses of Oracal 951 and 751 vinyl films.
| Vinyl Type | Oracal 951 | Oracal 751 |
| Thickness | 2.1 mil | 2.1 mil |
| Outdoor Durability | Up to 10 years | Up to 7 years |
| Conformability | Good | Excellent |
| Weeding | Easy | Easy |
| Bleeding | Minimal | Minimal |
| Cost | $$ | $ |
Oracal 951 is a premium 2.1 mil cast vinyl film designed for medium to long term outdoor signage, vehicle graphics, and decals. It features an opaque finish and pressure-sensitive adhesive backing protected by a transfer tape.
Some of the key features and benefits of Oracal 951 vinyl include:
The 951 vinyl is resistant to UV rays, humidity, temperature fluctuations, dirt, and chemicals. Properly laminated graphics can last 5-10 years outdoors without fading, cracking or peeling. This makes it ideal for outdoor signs, vehicle wraps, and decals exposed to weathering.
Oracal 951 vinyl has good dimensional stability meaning it resists over-stretching and shrinkage. Graphics keep their shape and don’t warp or bubble over time. This contributes to the vinyl’s long-term durability.
951 is available in a wide range of solid colors including vibrant hues like red, orange, and yellow. This allows for very colorful and impactful graphics. Metallic colors are also available for eye-catching effects.
This vinyl material features a thin 2.1 mil thickness that cuts smoothly and weeds quickly without tearing or ripping. Detailed and intricate designs are achievable. Weeding tools easily lift off small pieces of excess vinyl.
While not as conformable as 751, the 951 vinyl still has good flexibility and confirmability to curved surfaces like vehicles and helmets. It can stretch and mold to contours without lifting or bubbles.
On unlaminated applications, the vinyl resin does not bleed over time. Printed graphics maintain edge sharpness.
While more expensive than basic calendered vinyls, Oracal 951 offers good value given its exceptional durability and lifespan. The increased investment pays off when graphics last for years without replacement.
Oracal 751 is also a 2.1 mil premium cast PVC film but with a glossy finish. It’s designed primarily for general signage and marking applications requiring maximum conformability.
Key features and benefits of 751 vinyl:
The 751 vinyl film is incredibly flexible and pliable, able to stretch and mold around curved, corrugated, and riveted surfaces without lifting or bubbles. This makes it ideal for applying graphics to vehicles, helmets, gear, electronics, appliances and other uneven surfaces.
While not as durable as 951, properly laminated Oracal 751 graphics can still last 5-7 years outdoors. It has decent resistance to UV, humidity, chemicals, scratches, and more.
751 has a glossy finish that looks very vibrant and wet. This eye-catching gloss makes graphics really stand out.
With a thin 2.1 mil thickness, the vinyl cuts cleanly and weeds easily similar to 951. Intricate designs with small pieces can be achieved.
This vinyl is dimensionally stable and won’t shrink significantly over time or after stretching. Graphics retain their shape.
On unlaminated graphics, the vinyl resin doesn’t bleed much allowing for sharp edges.
Oracal 751 is more affordable than 951 making it a great option for general signage needs without the highest durability requirements.
While Oracal 951 and 751 share some similarities, there are some key differences that set them apart:
Oracal 951 is best suited for vehicle wraps, exterior signage, decals, and graphics requiring long-term durability of 5-10 years in outdoor environments. It resists UV rays, chemicals, scratches, temperature changes, and humidity.
751 vinyl is ideal for indoor signs, vehicle decals on curved surfaces, architectural marking, electronics and appliance decals, trade show displays, and other applications needing maximum conformability and stretch rather than extreme long-term durability.
The main differences are durability and cost. Oracal 951 is rated for up to 10 years outdoors while 651 lasts approximately 3 years. 951 is also more expensive than 651. Both have similar conformability and ease of use.
Properly laminated Oracal 751 graphics can last 5-7 years in outdoor environments. Unlaminated 751 will last a few years outdoors but lamination is recommended for maximizing durability. Indoors, it can last much longer without fading or deterioration.
Also Read: Comparison Between DPF And DEF.
When choosing between Oracal’s premium cast vinyl options, consider the intended application and longevity requirements. For long-lasting exterior graphics that withstand harsh outdoor elements, Oracal 951 is the clear choice.
If maximum conformability for curved and uneven surfaces is needed, Oracal 751 is the ideal option. For general indoor signage without extreme durability needs, 751 provides a more budget-friendly solution. Carefully examine the differences in durability, conformability, finish and cost to select the right vinyl film for your specific graphics and signs. Oracal offers outstanding quality and performance with both 951 and 751 vinyl films.
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