Choosing the right PVC fabric for your application
Choosing the right PVC fabric is important to ensure that its properties match the requirements of the end product and its application. For manufacturers, the right material contributes to the performance and durability of the finished product, even in the most demanding conditions and environments.
Choosing the right PVC fabric starts with understanding the application
At Scantarp, we understand that each application places unique demands on fabric performance. For manufacturers who process PVC coated fabrics into finished products, the right material is an essential part of the end product's performance. Therefore, the best way to start choosing the right fabric is by considering the application: what will the coated fabric be used for, and what properties does the end product require?
For example, the properties required for hall fabrics may differ from those required for lightweight fabrics used in indoor doors.
When selecting a fabric for a hall structure, it is important to consider weather resistance, mold and UV protection, as well as fire safety. The material must also have excellent strength. These properties are particularly important when the fabric is used over large surface areas, helping it withstand heavy wear, changing weather conditions and UV radiation during outdoor use.
In contrast, fabrics used for lightweight indoor doors and curtains may require fire-retardant properties, good foldability, and excellent tear strength, as they are repeatedly moved and handled. Weather resistance, on the other hand, is less important for indoor applications.
Once the requirements of the application and end product are clear, we can help you find the right material with the properties you need. Our PVC coated fabrics can be tailored with a wide range of properties, including:
Strength and tear resistance
UV protection for extended service life
Low temperate resistance down to -60 °C
Airtight, watertight and gastight structure
Anti-mold protection for long-term cleanliness
Fire resistancy compliant with EN 13501-1
Antistatic performance to prevent dust and dirt buildup and ensure safe use
Phthalate-free composition for safe use
Adjustable light transmittance or full blackout
Chemical resistance
Fabrics with special features are also available, so don’t hesitate to ask for more information. In addition to PVC fabrics, we coat both woven and knitted fabrics using PVC/PU-blend and TPU.
Fabric strength – What level of strength is required from the fabric?
The purpose of the base fabric in a PVC coated fabric is to provide the product with the required strength. The mechanical stress the fabric is exposed to, in turn, determines the level and type of strength properties required.
Scanplan: Knitted base fabric is usually chosen for applications where tear resistance plays an important role. For example, in covers, protective sheets, screens, and curtains, these are important features since the items are frequently moved or handled. Thanks to foldability, knitted base fabric is also optimal for lightweight door fabrics intended for indoor use. In addition, knitted base fabric is a better choice for protecting polygonal and uneven surfaces. The product code of Scanplan products begins with the number 5.
Even higher tear resistance is achieved with so-called rip-stop fabrics, in which reinforced threads are woven into the base fabric at regular intervals. These threads more effectively stop tears from spreading.
Vinyplan: Woven base fabric provides excellent strength and durability because the warp and weft threads are tightly interlaced. Woven base fabric is used when tensile strength and high durability are required. It is optimal for use especially in industrial buildings, inflatable boats, oil booms, and silo fabrics, as well as truck tarpaulins. In addition, woven base fabric is optimal for large and heavy doors due to its strength properties. The product code of Vinyplan products begins with the numbers 4, 6, 7, and 8.
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Weather-resistant PVC fabrics are suitable for indoor use
In outdoor use, a PVC coated fabric is exposed to several weather conditions such as UV radiation, rain, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. Therefore, the technical fabric needs to be weather-resistant to ensure that it maintains its structure, colour, and performance year after year.
UV protection
If the fabric is exposed to sunlight, it is advisable to choose a UV-resistant fabric for the application. UV protection helps extend the fabric’s service life by helping it retain its colour and structural integrity when exposed to UV radiation from the sun.
We have taken increased UV exposure into account in our material formulations, and we offer options suitable for different UV levels. Check out this map [LINK] to see our recommendations regarding UV protection.
Low-temperature resistance
If the fabric is continuously exposed to low temperatures, it is advisable to choose a fabric with sufficient low temperature resistance for the application.
Thanks to cold resistance, our products withstand handling at low temperatures. Our standard products can be handled in cold conditions down to -40 °C, while our special products are designed to withstand stress even at -60 °C.
If the fabric is not being moved or stressed, cold temperatures won’t cause lasting damage — even below the recommended range.
Waterproof and airtight fabrics
Thanks to our calendering technique, we can manufacture fully airtight, watertight and gastight coated fabrics. Water resistance helps protect against rain, while an airtight structure helps protect against wind.
For this reason, the fabrics are suitable for the construction of industrial halls and doors as well as manufacturing of curtains and covers.
Anti-mold protection
Our coated fabrics are treated with anti-mold agents (biocides) that effectively prevent mold growth, even in humid or demanding environments. This ensures long-lasting cleanliness, reduced maintenance needs and improved product lifespan.
We only use chemicals that are approved for use in Europe and fully comply with the REACH regulation.
Safety and Protection
In some applications, fabrics are subject to specific safety requirements due to building regulations, the intended application or customer requirements. These requirements may include fire safety, antistatic properties, or phthalate-free materials.
Fire retardancy
Fire safety regulations may concern applications such as industrial halls and doors, tents, and other temporary structures. In this case the technical fabrics needs to be fire retardant.
Our fire retardant PVC fabrics do not drip burning material and self-extinguish once the flame source is removed. We offer materials in fire classifications of C-s2, d0 or the stricter B-s2, d0, both accordance with EN 13501-1. Look for the FR marking in the product description.
Phthalate-free fabrics for safe use
If the application requires avoiding phthalates, it is advisable to choose a phthalate-free fabric.
Phthalate-free PVC coated fabric is suitable for applications such gym mats or as a non-slip surface for gym mats in school sports halls. It can also be used as flooring or matting in dance studios, gyms, and sports halls. You can identify phthalate-free products by the PF marking in the product name. Phthalate-free fabric options are particularly available among our ScanSPORT sports equipment fabric selection.
Antistatic properties
In some applications, antistatic properties are important as static electricity can cause safety, operational, or cleanliness issues.
Antistatic PVC coated fabric reduces the build-up of static electrical charges and can therefore also help reduce the accumulation of dust and dirt adhesion on the fabric surface. Antistatic properties may also be essential in environments where static electricity discharges and the potential sparks they may cause need to be controlled. You can identify antistatic fabric by the A marking in the product name.
Chemical resistance
If the technical fabric will be in contact with chemicals, oils, fuels, or other chemical substances, it is advisable to check the material’s suitability for the application in advance.
Generally, materials using PVC/PU-blends resist most chemicals better than traditional PVC. Resistance also depends on duration of exposure, temperature, and mechanical stress. Higher PU content improves chemical resistance. Learn more about our ScanSAFE chemical-resistant fabrics that are available with PVC/PU coating.
Light transmittance: Fully blackout or light-transmitting fabric?
The light transmission of the fabric should be considered especially when the fabric is used in spaces or structures where lighting conditions matter. In some applications, such as warehousing or storage, complete blackout is essential.
In other applications, maximizing natural light is preferable to improve the comfort of the space and reduce the need for artificial lighting, for example in halls and tents.
With the right choice of base fabric and formulation, it is possible to influence the amount of light transmitted by the product. Our fabrics are available as light-transmitting or fully blackout.
Your partner in coated fabrics
We help manufacturers find the right PVC coated fabric for their products and applications. Contact us at sales@scantarp.fi and let’s discuss more about your end product and application.
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