A question we get frequently from our customers is about which type of flexible PVC material is needed for an application: Standard or Low Temp PVC strips. Confusion on this topic can lead to problems after installation and therefore it is critical that it is understood well before placing your order.
PVC (vinyl) strips, are a versatile and cost-effective solution for controlling temperature, noise, and dust in various industrial and commercial applications. Two popular types of PVC strips are Standard Clear PVC strips and Low Temp Clear PVC strips. While they share some similarities, there are significant differences between the two:
Standard Clear PVC Strips
Standard Clear PVC strips are made from a clear, flexible vinyl material that is suitable for use in environments where the temperature ranges from 150° F to -10° F, making them ideal for applications such as coolers, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities. Typically fresh poultry, beef, fish, eggs and dairy products are stored in this temperature range. Clearway’s Standard Clear material is made from raw materials compliant with USDA and FDA regulations for incidental food contact. These Standard Clear strips have a high degree of clarity, allowing for excellent visibility and light transmission, making them an excellent choice for areas where visibility is important. These Standard Clear strips are available in two different profiles: Smooth (for normal applications) or DuraRib (for heavy-traffic applications) and a variety of PVC strip widths and thicknesses.
Low Temp Clear PVC Strips
Low Temp Clear PVC strips, on the other hand, are specially designed for use in freezer environments where the temperature can drop as low as -40° F. They are made of a very soft flexible PVC material that remains pliable even in freezing temperatures. This extra-flexible formula allows the curtain to flex easily when people or equipment is moving through the curtain, even if the temperature is extremely low. Low Temp Clear PVC strips are ideal for walk-in freezers, and other refrigerated environments where maintaining a consistent temperature is critical. Products like ice cream and other frozen foods are stored in cold storage rooms that are utilizing these Low Temp PVC strips. These Low Temp Clear strips are also available in two different profiles: Smooth (for normal applications) or DuraRib (for heavy-traffic applications) and a variety of PVC strip widths and thicknesses.
Some Key Differences
One of the key differences between Standard Clear PVC strips and Low Temp Clear PVC strips is their ability to withstand different temperature ranges. While Standard Clear PVC strips are suitable for use in a broad range of temperatures, low temp PVC strips are specifically designed to handle extremely cold temperatures.
Additionally, low temp PVC strips tend to be more expensive than Standard Clear PVC strips due to their specialized properties.
Finally it is important to know that Clearway’s Low Temp Clear PVC strips are designed to be used for indoor applications only. They don’t contain any UV stabilization for direct sunlight. Standard Clear PVC strips on the other hand are designed to be very versatile and can be used in many different applications including outdoor applications with exposure to direct sunlight.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between Standard Clear PVC strips and Low Temp Clear PVC strips, it is essential to consider the temperature range of the environment in which they will be used. While Standard Clear PVC strips are ideal for a wide variety of applications, Low Temp PVC strips are necessary for environments with extremely low temperatures. Understanding the differences between these two types of PVC strips can help you select the right product for your specific needs.
Clearway offers Standard or Low Temp formulations in a variety of colors and styles including Smooth, DuraRib, Reinforced, Anti-Insect, Anti-Static and several others.
For more info or to check specifically about Standard or Low Temp strips in your application, email us at info@clearwaydoor.com.
