A Sustainability Edge for Transport for Wales Trains
Dual-language branded Transport for Wales trains have been wrapped in non-PVC 3M™ Envision™ Print Wrap film, providing a more sustainable vinyl solution and long-lasting protection.
Operated by KeolisAmey, the trains are now running across the Wales and Borders network and are the first to use 3M’s sustainability-focused Print Wrap film.
Envision Print Wrap Film from 3M
The project involved stripping existing signage, full preparation of the underlying surfaces, corrosion treatment and repainting before the digitally-printed Envision Print Wrap graphic was applied to the cars’ exterior.
To maintain the best possible appearance throughout the lifetime of the trains, additional 3M Scotchgard 8993 Glossy Overlaminate and 3M Anti-Graffiti Wrap Gloss Overlaminate 8588G film were used to provide extra protection for the printed film.
The train wraps were applied by Aura Graphics, a 3M Select Platinum Partner, and local staff were employed to carry out the work.
Colin Lea, Commercial and Customer Experience director for Transport for Wales Rail Services, said:
“Sustainability is a guiding principle for us, so when looking at vinyl options, we took the opportunity to choose a film with better credentials to update the graphics of our fleet”
“The benign materials and processes used to produce Envision Print Wrap film, combined with its outstanding performance and durability, will keep our trains looking good for longer and allowed us to choose a less environmentally damaging material.”
Director of Aura Graphics’ Rail Division, Tim Locke, said:
“The excellent material properties of Envision Print Wrap film from 3M, including features that aid application as well as compatibility with all inks and printer types, enabled us to deliver this project to a high standard and within a tight timescale.”
Envision Print Wrap film incorporates 3M’s pressure-activated Controltac Adhesive Technology for fast, efficient application, repositionability and removal; and 3M’s Comply Adhesive Technology that uses microchannels to eliminate air bubbles for a faultless application. The film also has a high tensile strength that resists tearing for faster, cleaner removal at end of life.