SINTRA® VERS Expanded PVC Board - Lightweight Performance for High-Volume Projects
What is SINTRA® VERS Expanded PVC Board?
SINTRA® VERS is a lighter weight, general purpose expanded PVC board specifically engineered for common applications and high-volume projects requiring fast turnaround. As part of the SINTRA® Collection from 3A Composites, this versatile substrate delivers the consistency, durability, and formability of the original SINTRA® while offering reduced weight for easier handling, installation, and shipping.
Formerly known as e‑pvc™, SINTRA® VERS has been rebranded to better reflect its versatile nature and high‑quality domestic production. Comprised of expanded, closed‑cell polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in a homogeneous sheet with a bright white or black satin finish, this lightweight board provides an excellent balance of performance and value for applications where weight restrictions or cost considerations are important factors.
How Does SINTRA® VERS Compare to Standard SINTRA®?
- Weight: Formulated to be lighter than standard SINTRA®, reducing handling and shipping costs while maintaining structural integrity.
- Application Focus: Optimized for general-purpose and high-volume projects versus premium long-term applications.
- Thickness Range: Available in gauges from 3 mm to 6 mm (versus 1 mm to 12.7 mm for standard SINTRA®).
- Cost Efficiency: Competitive pricing for large runs without compromising essential performance.
- Speed to Market: Designed for fast turnaround without sacrificing quality.
Features & Benefits
- Lighter Weight Construction: Easier to handle, transport, and install while maintaining rigidity for display applications.
- Bright White Satin Finish: Excellent printability for digital and screen printing, ensuring vibrant colors and sharp detail.
- Two-Sided Printability: Accepts printing on both sides for double-sided displays and signage.
- Dent & Scratch Resistance: Sufficient durability for medium-term applications and typical handling conditions.
- Consistent Sheet Thickness: Manufactured to tight tolerances for flat, even surfaces and reliable print results.
- Heat Formable: Can be heat-shaped to create custom contours and dimensional elements.
- Fire Performance: Self-extinguishing with Class A Fire Rating (ASTM E-84) in gauges ≤ 5 mm.
- Easy Fabrication: Cuts cleanly with knives, saws, and routers for complex shapes.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Ideal for high-volume projects and temporary displays.
- Made in the USA: Produced at 3A Composites USA’s Benton, Kentucky plant.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Material Composition | Lightweight expanded, closed-cell polyvinyl chloride (PVC) |
| Surface Finish | Low-gloss satin finish |
| Available Colors | Bright white, black |
| Standard Thicknesses | 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm |
| Standard Sheet Sizes | 48″×96″, up to 60″×120″ |
| Density | Lighter than standard SINTRA® (varies by thickness) |
| Fire Rating | Self-extinguishing; Class A (ASTM E-84) in gauges ≤ 5 mm |
| Print Compatibility | Digital UV printing, screen printing, vinyl application |
| Two-Sided Printing | Yes |
| Chemical Resistance | Good resistance to moisture and common cleaning agents |
| UV Resistance | Indoor and short-term outdoor use |
| Heat Forming Temperature | 240°F–320°F (115°C–160°C) |
Applications
- POP/POS Displays: Quick-turnaround retail signage and hanging units that balance cost and visual impact.
- Elevated & Hanging Signage: Lightweight for overhead installs, simplifying mounting hardware requirements.
- High-Volume Print Projects: Uniform results and budget-friendly performance for large campaigns.
- Trade Show Graphics: Durable, transportable panels that withstand frequent assembly and handling.
- Window Displays: Complex shapes and vivid graphics to capture attention in retail windows.
- Double-Sided Displays: Ideal for environments requiring visibility from multiple angles.
Printing & Fabrication Capabilities
Printing Options
- Digital UV Printing: Bright satin finish supports vibrant, detailed graphics with excellent ink adhesion.
- Screen Printing: Stable surface ensures accurate registration for single- and multi-color jobs.
- Double-Sided Printing: Print on both faces for maximum messaging opportunities.
- Vinyl Application: Smooth surface provides strong adhesion for applied vinyl graphics.
Fabrication Techniques
- Cutting: Utility knives, table saws, and CNC routers yield precise, clean edges.
- Heat Forming: Mold into curves and shapes at 240°F–320°F (115°C–160°C).
- Drilling & Fastening: Accepts screws and fasteners; pre-drilling recommended.
- Digital Finishing: Routing, knife-cutting, and creasing in single operations for complex pieces.
Installation & Handling Recommendations
Storage & Handling
- Flat Storage: Store sheets flat on a level surface to prevent warping.
- Temperature Acclimation: Acclimate to room temperature for 24 hours before use.
- Clean Handling: Wear cotton gloves to keep surfaces pristine.
Mounting Considerations
- Weight Advantages: Lighter weight reduces mounting hardware requirements.
- Expansion Allowance: Account for thermal expansion in large installs.
- Edge Finishing: Consider edge banding or select ECLIPSE for premium edges.
Shipping & Installation
- Shipping Efficiency: Lower freight costs for large or large-format orders.
- On-Site Handling: Easier positioning, especially for single-person installs.
- Temporary Installation: Use removable tapes or hardware for short-term displays.
Frequently Asked Questions About SINTRA® VERS
What is the main difference between SINTRA® VERS and standard SINTRA®?
The primary difference is weight and application focus: SINTRA® VERS is formulated to be lighter than standard SINTRA®, making it easier to handle, install, and ship. It's designed for general-purpose and high-volume projects requiring fast turnaround, while standard SINTRA® is engineered for long-term, high-end applications.
Is SINTRA® VERS suitable for outdoor applications?
Primarily designed for interior use but can be used for short-term outdoor displays. For extended outdoor use, apply UV-resistant paints or laminates; for permanent installs, choose exterior‑rated materials.
Can SINTRA® VERS be printed on both sides?
Yes—SINTRA® VERS accepts printing on both faces, ideal for double-sided signage and displays visible from multiple angles.
What applications is SINTRA® VERS best suited for?
It excels in hanging/elevated signage, high-volume retail displays, trade show graphics, window displays, and double-sided applications where weight, cost efficiency, and quick turnaround are key.
Resources
View Sales Sheet
View Fabrication Guide
View Safety Data Sheet
Fire Characteristics
- Material:
- PVC Foam
- Form:
- Sheet
