Incredible ‘self-healing’ technology that prevents car body from being chipped or scratched
Car detailers now have the ability to permanently protect your car from daily scrapes that can dramatically affect its value
THE days of scratches and chips on your shiny new car may be over for good.
Technology is now available that can protect a motor's paintwork from daily scrapes – and ultimately affect the resale value of your vehicle.
Reep Midlands
Car detailers can now use a "paint protection film", which wraps the body of the car and covers the paint itself from exterior exposure.
Described as a thick type of cling film, the plastic-like wrap absorbs any scratch or ding impact that would normally create a mark in the paint, before quickly bouncing back to its original shape, leaving no trace of contact on the surface.
It is this feature that makes it appear as if the car is "self-healing".
One of the UK's top detailing and paint protection specialists, Reep Midlands, regularly uses the PPF technology, which is developed by major chemical company Llumar.
Ben Robinson, managing director at Reep, described the "incredible" healing powers of the protective film in an interview with Auto Express.[1]
"The paint protection film (PPF) is incredible," Robinson said.
"Its self-healing properties come from the film always returning to its natural shape.
"The glue underneath the paint doesn't harden, it stays in a fluid state which helps the film to recover from something such as a nasty scratch."
Reep Midlands
Where previously, detailing experts would have to individually measure and cut out film to perfectly fit each section of the car, the film can now be sized automatically using a Llumar database that stores exact panel sizes for any make and model, then produces them instantly via a special printer.
According to the Reep representative, the PPF will protect paintwork from daily scratches and chips as long as the metalwork is not dented or bent.
HOW PAINT PROTECTION FILM WORKS
- Car is given deep clean and polish to remove any surface residue
- Panel pieces are printed to exact size using Llumar database and PrecisionCut printer
- Car is taken to a temperature-controlled room, where installers wear lint-free suits
- Film is sprayed with isopropyl alcohol for an easier fit
- Each section is matched perfectly to corresponding panel on car
- Glue used underneath film stays in a fluid state, helping PPF recover from scratches
- Film is virtually invisible once applied
The film technology has been used in the detailing industry now for a number of years, however, recent developments in its application have made it more affordable for a wider range of customers.
Once sheets are printed to size and the car has been deep-cleaned numerous times, each section is meticulously applied by hand ensuring the film fits panels exactly.
The film is virtually invisible once the application is complete.
Reep Midlands
According to Reep, their starting price for a PPF cover is £300, but can be in the thousands for the most prestigious vehicles.
Llumar gives each application of the film a 10-year guarantee.
References
- ^ described the "incredible" healing powers of the protective film in an interview with Auto Express. (www.autoexpress.co.uk)
