Frequently Asked
Questions:
Are Tabcrest products RoHS and WEEE compliant?
Based on statements from our suppliers, we believe that our
products are RoHS and WEEE compliant.
What is your minimum quantity?
For many products, especially engraving and pre-spaced vinyl
graphics, the minimum quantity is one, but the unit price generally
falls as the quantity increases.
Which artwork formats can Tabcrest accept?
Illustrator eps files are preferred. Drawings can often be exported
to this format from other DTP software, eg Coreldraw. Only spot
colours should be used and text should be saved as curves. E-mail
is an excellent way to send us artworks. Although we use Apple Mac
computers with Adobe Illustrator and Quark Xpress, we can accept PC
format discs. Bitmap images, eg *.bmp, *.tif, etc, should not be
used for anything other than logos and symbols.
Are CAD drawings acceptable for artwork?
CAD software often claims to output eps files but they are rarely
satisfactory as artwork, though good results can sometimes be
achieved by dragging and dropping an image from CAD to DTP
software. We welcome other information in electronic form.
Which is the best adhesive?
For application to smooth metal or stove enamelled surfaces, 3M's
467 is hard to beat. If the surface is lightly textured, then their
468 product is better, while for powder coat paints and for
plastics, especially low surface energy types, 3M's new 300LE range
is excellent. There are many other adhesives to choose from for the
right balance of cost and performance.
How should self-adhesive labels be applied?
For maximum bond strength, the application surface should be clean
and dry. A typical cleaning solvent is heptane or isopropyl alcohol
(Consult the manufacturer's Material Safety Data Sheet for proper
handling and storage of solvents). Silicon based polishes and
cleaners should never be used. For best bonding conditions, the
application surface should be at room temperature. Cold surfaces,
below about 10ºC, cause the adhesive to become so firm that it will
not develop maximum contact with the substrate. Higher initial
bonds are achieved through increased rub down pressure. The use of
a roller or squeegee is recommended. Adhesives do not normally
achieve their full strength until at least 24 hours after
application.
