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FEATURES
The HX190WG2 film consists of a 50-μm PVC, which is perfectly suitable for complex
surfaces and adheres particularly well to glass, steel, aluminium, PVC and melamine.
Due to its high technical performance and flexibility, it may be used for full wrap
applications as well as on curved and riveted surfaces, etc.
The combination of ultra-flexible cast vinyl and advanced HEX’PRESS technology for
the HX190WG2 film allows you to obtain high quality results while reducing the time
required for application. This technology allows for an easy repositioning of the vinyl on
the substrate during application, while not excluding the squeegeeing step for optimal
adhesion of the film to the substrate.
The HX190WG2 film features an adhesive, which provides enhanced ease of application
and optimum installation comfort at low temperature conditions 10 °C to 15 °C (50 °F to
59 °F).
PREPARING YOUR APPLICATION SURFACE
HEXIS films can be applied to a wide variety of substrates as long as the target surface
is clean, dry, smooth, non-porous and free from any traces of oil, grease, wax, silicone or
other contaminants. To avoid unexpected outcomes, always assume that every substrate
is dirty and needs to be cleaned (see chapter CLEANING: page 3).
Do not forget to carry out a preliminary trial on a small surface to check if the substrate is
compatible.
1. RECOMMENDATIONS:………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2
2. PRELIMINARY TEST OF THE APPLICATION SURFACES: …………………………………………………….. 2
2.1. Tear-off test: ……….. 2
2.2. Degassing test: ……….. 2
2.3. Degassing procedure with flame treatment: …………………………………………………………………………………………………..2
3. CLEANING:………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3
3.1. Clean and soiled surface appearance: …………………………………….. 3
3.2. Heavily soiled surface appearance:…………………………………….. 3
3.3. Special case: ……….. 3
4. LAMINATING THE FILM: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3
5. APPLYING THE HX190WG2 FILM: ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 4
5.1. First steps and application of the HX190WG2 film to flat surfaces: …………………………………………………………..4
5.2. Undulated surfaces: Apply the “extended application method” in the case of heavy undulations: ………5
5.3. Concave surfaces: ……………………………………. 5
5.4. Convex surfaces: …………………………………….. 6
5.5. Riveted surfaces: ……………………………………. 6
5.6. Additional information for a full vehicle wrap: ………………………………………………………………………………………………..7
6. USE OF THE HEAT GUN: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 8
7. EDGE SEALING TAPE OR VARNISH:………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8
7.1. Edge sealing tape:…………………………………….. 8
7.2. Edge sealing varnish: …………………………………….. 9
8. CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE OF THE HX190WG2 FILM: …………………………………………… 9
9. REMOVAL PROCEDURE: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………….10
APPLICATION AND REMOVAL METHOD
CAST HEX’PRESS VINYL FILM
HX190WG2 FILM
REQUIRED ACCESSORIES
› Tesa® 50110 adhesive tape
› Masking tape
› Liquids for the cleaning of application surfaces:
› SHAGREMOV
› SHAGCLEAN
› ProTech® SHAMPCARV2 car body shampoo
› Liquid for an easier application: MAGICSPRAY
› Squeegees upon your choice from the catalogue
› Laminate compatible with cast films
› RSSEAL edge sealing tape
› VR7077 sealing varnish
› ROLLRIV application wheel for applications
over rivets
› RIVETBRUSH application accessory for riveted
surfaces
› PISTHERMIQ heat gun
› PISTLASER3 laser thermometer
› Different HEXIS application tools
› SHAGRELOAD cleaning agents
STORE YOUR FILMS UNDER APPROPRIATE
CONDITIONS
Keep the films away from all major sources of
heat (radiators and heaters, direct exposure to
sunlight, etc.): the ideal temperature ranges from
15 °C to 25 °C (from 59 °F to 77 °F). Store them in
an atmosphere with low humidity (with relative
humidity between 30 % and 70 %).
Keep your films in their original packaging. Each
opened roll must be stored vertically or suspended
in order to avoid pressure marks on the contact
surface.
APPLICATION GUIDE | HX190WG2 FILM FPP.IMN.011 E 06.22
Application methods are based upon HEXIS’ experience and are non-restrictive. Comply with instructions to ease application of HEXIS films.
HEXIS also offer training sessions for beginners and professionals to achieve optimum results.
HEXIS
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1. RECOMMENDATIONS:
› The HX190WG2 film adheres particularly well to glass, steel, aluminium, PVC and
melamine.
› The HX190WG2 film has a weaker adherence to the following substrates: low energy
(polyethylene, polypropylene, etc.), grained or textured substrates or those coated with
acrylic paint.
› In the case of a vehicle wrap, avoid applying the HX190WG2 film to unpainted components
such as trims or unpainted bumpers.
› For any other substrate, preliminary tests must be carried out.
› The best adhesion of the HX190WG2 film is achieved after 24 hours of contact.
2. PRELIMINARY TEST OF THE APPLICATION SURFACES:
› Any fresh new paint must be dried for at least 7 days at 25 °C (77 °F) in order to degas
completely. A degassing test must be carried out before applying the film.
› Any old, powdery or flaky paint must be sanded and renewed before application and
must undergo a tear-off test.
2.1. Tear-off test:
Using a TESA® 50110 adhesive tape, or similar, apply it to a surface of 2.5 cm x 5 cm
(1 in. x 2 in.) plus some overhang material for easier removal. Fold and tear it off with
one quick pull perpendicular to the substrate surface. The film must generate a certain
resistance during its removal. Repeat this process in several places.
> On request, HEXIS can provide you with a Tesa® adhesive tape in 2.5 cm x 5 cm (1 in. x 2 in.)
size. HEXIS cannot be held liable for any damage to the substrate following the execution
of this test.
2.2. Degassing test:
(For verification) Use a square of around 15 cm x 15 cm (6 in. x 6 in.) of self-adhesive
polyester or of the film to be applied. Wait for 24 hours at ambien temperature or
2 hours at 65 °C (149 °F). The appearance of bubbles indicates that the substrate has not
sufficiently degassed. In this case, this process should be repeated after a couple of days;
or the procedure described below should be carried out.
2.3. Degassing procedure with flame treatment:
(Polycarbonate, translucent or diffusing methacrylate, expanded PVC, etc.)
This method consists of changing the surface tension of a substrate by swiping it with
the flame of a gas burner. Using the flame’s blue tip, proceed evenly with fast sweeps
horizontally and vertically along the whole substrate surface.
MOVE THE FLAME IN SWIPING MOTIONS ON THE SUBSTRATE (YOU RISK DESTROYING
THE SUBSTRATE IF A FIXED POINT IS HEATED FOR MORE THAN A SECOND).
The film must be applied right after this treatment as this light surface treatment
disappears after a few minutes.
> HEXIS are not liable for any bubbles caused by degassing.
APPLICATION GUIDE | HX190WG2 FILM FPP.IMN.011 E 06.22
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HEXIS
3. CLEANING:
You must clean the substrate before starting the application. It should always be assumed
that the substrate is contaminated with dirt. Some residues or soiling may not be visible;
however, they may impact the adhesion of the film.
Before using any cleaning liquids or chemicals, please refer to the Technical Data Sheets and
Safety Data Sheets available for download on our website www.hexis-graphics.com.
3.1. Clean and soiled surface appearance:
For vehicle wraps, it is advised to wash the vehicle with the SHAMPCARV2 vehicle body
shampoo, then carry out a final cleaning using the SHAGCLEAN product.
3.2. Heavily soiled surface appearance:
For vehicle wraps, it is advised to wash the vehicle with the SHAMPCARV2 vehicle body
shampoo, then use the SHAGREMOV product.
Use the SHAGREMOV product in a ventilated area. Wear protective gloves and goggles.
Prior to treatment, run a compatibility test on a small, inconspicuous area of the substrate
to be treated. Certain plastic materials may be damaged by SHAGREMOV.
› Spray the SHAGREMOV product on the dirty surface and spread it out using a dry cloth.
› Wait for a few minutes. Then spray the SHAGREMOV product again and wipe the surface
dry with a clean cloth or squeegee.
› When the substrate is clean and dry, carry out a final cleaning with the SHAGCLEAN
product.
3.3. Special case:
Remember to adapt the preparation methods to the substrate type and its condition.
Thus, painted surfaces must be dry and hard, baked paints must be cooled down. Air-dried
paints or car paints need to be dried for a minimum of one month before applying the film.
› For bare metallic surfaces in the case of a full wrap:
› Clean the substrate with soapy water and then with a cloth soaked with the
SHAGCLEAN product.
Refer to the Product Safety Data Sheet prior to use.
› Thoroughly wipe down the surface after the cleaning process.
4. LAMINATING THE FILM:
We recommend you laminate the HX190WG2 film with one of these laminating films
compatible with cast films (PC190, PC500, structured laminates, etc.).
Ensure that the film is dry before application.
The printed HX190WG2 film is touch-dry at 10 minutes maximum following application, but
it is recommended to leave a drying time of at least 48 hours before laminating, cutting or
applying it.
› To ensure that the solvents evaporate completely, leave the printed films stacked in
sheet racks in a ventilated room to dry.
SHAMPCARV2
Concentrated vehicle
shampoo
SHAGREMOV
Powerful cleaning
agent
SHAGCLEAN
Cleaning and
degreasing finishing
agent
APPLICATION GUIDE | HX190WG2 FILM FPP.IMN.011 E 06.22
HEXIS
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5. APPLYING THE HX190WG2 FILM:
Due to its liner, it is mandatory to apply the film using the so-called «dry» application
method with the HX190WG2 film, laminated or not.
The HEX’PRESS technology allows for easy repositioning of the vinyl on the substrate during
application.
However, the HX190WG2 film must be firmly squeegeed to achieve optimum adhesion on
the substrate.
HEXIS tip: To enhance the surface sliding of the squeegee on the film while also limiting
the risk of micro-folds during this phase, the MAGICSPRAY product can be sprayed on the
squeegee surface as soon as necessary, until the film application is completed.
Before any application of the HX190WG2 complex, laminated or not, make sure that all
surfaces are clean.
Application temperature:
The recommended minimum application temperature is +10 °C (+50 °F).
The application temperature must be respected for both the ambient and substrate
temperature. Hygrometry may also influence the adhesion of the film to the substrate.
5.1. First steps and application of the HX190WG2 film to flat surfaces:
› Wear gloves (GANTCOV).
› Position the printed film on the target surface and tape it into place without stretching
it. (FIG. 01)
› Apply a strip of masking tape or magnets across the upper section of the graphic in
order to create a horizontal hinge, preferably on a flat part of the surface. (FIG. 02)
› Peel off 10 cm (4 in) of the liner. (FIG. 03)
› Start applying the vinyl with a squeegee (previously covered with felt), by forming a
45-degree angle with the substrate and working from the centre towards the edges.
(FIG. 04)
HEXIS tip: To enhance the surface sliding of the squeegee on the film, the MAGICSPRAY
product can be sprayed on the film’s surface as soon as necessary, until the film application
is completed.
Figure 01
Figure 02
Figure 03
Figure 04
APPLICATION GUIDE | HX190WG2 FILM FPP.IMN.011 E 06.22
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HEXIS
› Remove the top hinge and continue removing the liner, depending on the surface
structure (cf. paragraphs below). (FIG. 05)
› During application to flat surfaces, squeegee the entire surface while removing the
liner steadily, firmly pressing on the edges and corners.
5.2. Undulated surfaces: Apply the “extended application method” in the case
of heavy undulations:
After having completed step 5.1, you may come across slight or heavy undulations for
which the application process will be different.
› Gradually remove the liner while pulling it downward. (FIG. 06)
› Apply the film horizontally with your thumb or a squeegee by progressing slowly into
the hollow of the undulation.
› Start by applying the hollow , then the peak  and finally the hollow 
› Continue onto the next undulation , then keep going  until completion of the
application.
› The application is completed.
In the hollow parts, the HEX’PRESS adhesive technology requires sufficient pressure in order
to completely expel any air that could remain in the micro-channels. This is because the air
that has not been evacuated and that is not visible to the eye may later result in the film
peeling off from its substrate.
HEXIS tip: To enhance the surface sliding of the squeegee on the film, it is highly
recommended to spray the application liquid MAGICSPRAY on the film’s surface as soon as
necessary, until the film application is completed.
5.3. Concave surfaces:
After having completed step 5.1, proceed as follows:
› Remove the whole liner. (FIG. 07)
› Stretch the vinyl over the substrate so that it touches the peaks only. (FIG. 08)
› Apply the peak with your finger or a felt-covered plastic squeegee. (FIG. 09)
Figure 05
HX190WG2 FILM
SUBSTRATE
LINER
Figure 06
Figure 07
HEAT
SUBSTRATE SUBSTRATE
ZONE
DEFORMATION
HEAT
PRESSURE
PRESSURE
Figure 08
HX190WG2 FILM
Figure 09
APPLICATION GUIDE | HX190WG2 FILM FPP.IMN.011 E 06.22
HEXIS
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› If necessary, lift and stretch the film again; then apply it.
› Heat to a temperature ranging from 40 °C to 50 °C (from 104 °F to 122 °F) and press the
film with your thumb into the hollow area so as to properly apply the adhesive. (FIG. 10)
HEX’PRESS technology allows for easy repositioning of the film during its application to
the substrate as well as easy air evacuation. However, particularly in concave areas, the
HEX’PRESS adhesive technology requires sufficient pressure in order to completely expel
any air that could remain in the micro-channels. The air that has not been evacuated and
that is not visible to the human eye may later result in the film peeling off from its substrate.
HEXIS recommend you pay particular attention to the application of the HEX’PRESS film to
concave areas.
HEXIS tip: In order to reduce the risk of micro-folds generating during the air evacuation
phase, it can be necessary to increase the surface sliding of the squeegee on the film. For
this purpose, MAGICSPRAY can be sprayed on the squeegee surface whenever needed,
until completion of the film application.
› Once this step is completed, heat all the hollow parts which have undergone heavy
deformation to a temperature ranging from 80 °C to 90 °C (from 176 °F to 194 °F) to kill
the shape memory of the film. (FIG. 11)
5.4. Convex surfaces:
After having completed step 5.1, proceed as follows:
› Remove the liner.
› Heat the vinyl to a temperature ranging from 40 °C to 50 °C (from 104 °F to 122 °F),
(FIG. 12) then stretch the film so as to completely wrap the convex surface. (FIG. 13)
› Apply the vinyl over the whole surface using a felt-covered plastic squeegee, and
carefully wipe over the convex area (FIG. 14) to eliminate any tensions and folds.
› If necessary, lift the film, stretch it again, completely wrap the convex surface and apply
it. (FIG. 15)
› After this operation, heat to a temperature ranging from 40 °C to 50 °C (from 104 °F to
122 °F) (FIG. 16) and work the memory effect of the film.
› Leave it to cool down.
› Apply the film.
› Cut, if necessary, and heat all the edges again to a temperature ranging from 80 °C to
90 °C (from 176 °F to 194 °F) to ensure optimum adhesion of the film.
› The application is complete. (FIG. 17)
5.5. Riveted surfaces:
After having completed step 5.1, proceed as follows:
› When you encounter a rivet, the film is stretched. Gently heat to a temperature ranging
from 40 °C to 50 °C (from 104 °F to 122 °F). Then dab the rivets with the RIVETBRUSH to
apply the film to them.
Figure 10
Figure 11
Figure 12 Figure 13
Figure 14 Figure 15
Figure 16 Figure 17
APPLICATION GUIDE | HX190WG2 FILM FPP.IMN.011 E 06.22
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HEXIS
› Then slide the ROLLRIV (FIG. 18) over the film to make it adhere to the entire rivet surface.
Press it all around the rivet using a squeegee or your thumb.
› To finish, use the RIVETBRUSH and firmly apply it to the rivets (still by dabbing).
› Then heat each rivet again to 80 °C – 90 °C (176 °F – 194 °F). (FIG. 19).
5.6. Additional information for a full vehicle wrap:
› For vehicles, the application of film to window and body panel seals must be avoided by
all means.
› Whenever application to a horizontal surface is necessary, such as on engine hoods or
roofs, a slight fading of colour and gloss may develop over time compared to vertically
oriented areas. As these areas suffer maximum exposure to sunlight and climatic
influences, they are not covered by the HEXIS warranty regarding durability.
› If a seam is necessary between two widths, HEXIS recommend you overlap the film by
1 cm (0.4 in.), as follows:
• Horizontal overlapping: application is always carried out from the bottom up; the
upper film will overlap the lower film (tiling principle).
• Vertical overlapping on a mobile surface: application is always carried out from back to
front of the vehicle; the second film will overlap the first one, etc. (FIG. 20)
› Avoid applying the HX190WG2 film to unpainted components such as trims or unpainted
bumpers.
› The first step is very important and here are some essential tips:
› Make a hinge as indicated above (see chapter, 5.1. First steps and application of the
HX190WG2 film to flat surfaces:, page 4) just above the door handles.
› Cut and remove the liner from the upper part.
› Stretch the film and apply it using a squeegee.
› Once the upper part is applied, remove the remaining liner from the lower part.
Figure 18
Figure19
vehicle movement
air flow
2nd film
1st film
1 cm
0.4 in
Figure 20
APPLICATION GUIDE | HX190WG2 FILM FPP.IMN.011 E 06.22
HEXIS
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› Stretch the film over the door handles and, using a squeegee, apply the film all around
the door handles. (FIG. 21)
› Once the door handles are done, stretch the film down to the bottom of the vehicle
body. (FIG. 22)
› If necessary, lift and stretch the film again, by heating it to a temperature ranging from
40 °C to 50 °C (from 86 °F to 104 °F) in order to remove any folds.
› The film is stretched over the entire surface area to be wrapped. Now you can apply
the film (FIG. 23) according to the type of surface.
6. USE OF THE HEAT GUN:
You have used the heat gun for dry application to complex surfaces (concave, convex,
riveted).
Once the application is finished, heat all the parts that have undergone severe deformation
using the heat gun (FIG. 24). The heating temperature must range from 80 °C to 90 °C (from
176 °F to 194 °F). Check it using the PISTLASER3 laser thermometer.
Heat accelerates the bonding process of the pressure-sensitive adhesive. Thus, the vinyl
will be definitively conformed to its new shape.
7. EDGE SEALING TAPE OR VARNISH:
HEXIS recommend using RSSEAL or PC190G2 sealing strips rather than sealing varnish
when applying the HX190WG2 film to a vehicle (to avoid any risk of damaging the vehicle
paint during removal).
However, in certain cases, such as the HX190WG2 film applied to trains, heavy machinery
or boats, the VR7077 sealing varnish will be required to reinforce the film edges.
7.1. Edge sealing tape:
To enhance the adhesion of the HX190WG2 film to areas exposed to heavy wear such
as door sills, wheel cages, etc. you can use strips of the RSSEAL sealing tape or PC190G2
laminate for slightly curved surfaces.
Figure 21
Figure 22
Figure 23
Figure 24
APPLICATION GUIDE | HX190WG2 FILM FPP.IMN.011 E 06.22
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HEXIS
› Cut the laminate into a strip of 14 mm (½ in.) wide.
› Apply the strip by overlapping it by approximately 7 mm (¼ in.) over the body work and
7 mm (¼ in.) over the HX190WG2 film. (FIG. 25)
HEXIS tip: it is preferable to use sealing strips rather than the VR7077 sealing varnish for
most applications.
7.2. Edge sealing varnish:
The VR7077 sealing varnish must be applied only to reinforce the seal between the
HX190WG2 film borders and the substrate.
HEXIS tip: it is preferable to use sealing strips rather than the VR7077 sealing varnish for
most applications.
Using VR7077 varnish is at the installer’s own discretion.
› Ensure that all surfaces are completely dry.
› Apply 2 strips of masking tape:
1 to the substrate at 5 mm (0.2 in.) from HX190WG2.
1 to HX190WG2 at 5 mm (0.2 in.) from its edge. (FIG. 26)
› Apply the varnish with a brush in one single layer; wear gloves and protective goggles.
› Remove the masking tape 15 minutes after application.
› Drying time is variable depending on the varnish coat’s thickness and surrounding
temperature: For a film with an average coat, optimal drying time is 24 hours. Any
physical aggression (cleaning, abrasion, etc.) must be avoided by all means during that
period of time.
In all cases, avoid any contact between varnish and window seals.
8. CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE OF THE HX190WG2 FILM:
For a complementary cleaning of the compound HX190WG2 + laminate, use the
SHAGRELOAD product with a clean microfibre cloth.
› Spray directly onto the surface to be cleaned (± 40 cm x 40 cm / 15 in. x 15 in.).
› Wipe with a microfibre cloth before the product dries.
For optimum maintenance of the complex HX190WG2 + laminate, HEXIS suggest to use
their range of ProTech® cleaning agents specially designed for full wraps.
The HX190WG2 film can be cleaned in any conventional automatic car wash, using cleaning
products and detergents used for professional maintenance of vehicles and advertising
equipment.
Nevertheless exercise care when cleaning with high-pressure cleaners: Apply medium
water pressure at a minimum distance of 50 cm (20 in.) and a maximum water temperature
of 35 °C (95 °F).
Vehicle.body
Sealing.tape
HX190WG2.VINYL.FILM
0.25.in./.7.mm.|.7.mm./.0.25.in
Figure 25
HX190WG2 FILM
MASKING
TAPE
0.2sinss0.2sin
HX190WG2sVINYLsFILMs
Sealingsvarnish
Figure 26
HX190WG2 FILM
APPLICATION GUIDE | HX190WG2 FILM FPP.IMN.011 E 06.22
HEXIS
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For further technical information, please refer to the Technical Data Sheets available for free download from our website www.hexis-graphics.com, on the
“Professionals” pages.
Due to the great variety of substrates and the growing number of new applications, the installer must check the suitability of the medium for each application.
All the published information does not however constitute a binding guarantee. The seller cannot be held liable for indirectly related damages and assumes
no liability for claims that are higher than the replacement value of the purchased product. All specifications are subject to potential changes without prior
notice. Our specifications are automatically updated on our website www.hexis-graphics.com.
The film should not be cleaned within the first 48 hours following its application as this can
affect the adhesive strength which may result in the film peeling off.
Solvents and corrosive detergents must not be used.
HEXIS are not liable for any adhesive films cleaned with unspecified additives from cleaning
stations.
Car washes: The additive products and the condition of the rotating brushes may impair
the adhesion of the graphics or films. It is commonly admitted that after 10 car washes,
the polyurethane paint becomes streaked; therefore, we are not accountable for these
mechanical effects that may affect the film appearance.
HEXIS tip: Always carry out a test on a small area before cleaning the entire covered surface.
9. REMOVAL PROCEDURE:
The HX190WG2 film features a permanent adhesive and therefore its removal needs some
attention. Nevertheless, by following the instructions below, the removal will be relatively
easy.
› Using a heat gun, start from a corner and heat the film to a temperature of around 60 °C
(140 °F) (use the laser thermometer).
› Gently lift the corner with the cutter – available in the tool box – without damaging the
substrate, and gradually remove the previously heated film; the film should form a 70- to
80-degree angle with the substrate.
An angle more or less wide or acute will cause the film to break more easily.
› Always proceed gradually by heating small areas while carefully removing the film so as
to limit the risk of leaving any adhesive on the substrate or tearing the film.
› Continue to carefully heat and peel off the film gently until it is completely removed
while keeping a watchful eye on the heat applied, on the pulling angle of the film, and
the pulling speed.
› If any adhesive remains on the substrate, take a cloth soaked with our SHAGREMOV
product and rub the surface until all traces disappear.
› Acetone may be used to ease the removal of the VR7077 sealing varnish.
Liquids may damage seals; therefore take the necessary precautions before performing the
clean-up.
Before using any of our liquids, please refer to the technical data sheets available on our
website at www.hexis-graphics.com.
APPLICATION GUIDE | HX190WG2 FILM FPP.IMN.011 E 06.22