3M 2080 Cast Colour Change Wrap Film

3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 (“2080”) is a multi-layer cast adhesive backed film for full color vehicle wraps, accents, or partial decoration wraps.

• 2080 is a more conformable, easier to install film compared to older versions of 3M™ Wrap Film, requiring less heat during installation
• 2080 High Gloss colors offer a 250% better reflected image quality over a typical premium cast vinyl wrap film, providing a mirror-like appearance
• 3M™ Controltac™ and 3M™ Comply™ technology
  • Controltac™ minimizes the adhesive’s initial contact area for easy sliding, tacking, snap-up, and repositioning
  • Comply™ allows air to exit through air release channels to the edge of the film for fast, easy, bubble-free installations
• Gloss and high gloss color films have a clear protective film layer:
  • Reducing surface impressions and increasing scratch resistance during installation
  • Enabling installers to wrap complex, curved surfaces while leaving the clear protective film layer on
• 2080 has directional arrows on the liner of each roll to help install the gloss, textured, metallic, pearl, and color flip films (see FAQ 2080 Installation)
  • High gloss 2080 colors currently do NOT have directional arrows on the liner. Some high gloss colors do exhibit directionality characteristics, making it important to install high gloss films in a consistent orientation across the entire installation. 3M recommends checking the film’s orientation prior to installation to ensure its color and directionality will match across the entire installation.
• Available in 60 in. (1.52 m) rolls to allow for almost any section of the vehicle to be wrapped without seams
• Removable with heat and/or chemicals from most surfaces within the warranty period
• Comprehensive 3M™ MCS™ Warranty - up to eight years of protection on vertical applications* (See Warranty Information.)
• Approved for use with 3M™ Knifeless™ Tapes

* Warranty varies by zone

WARNING

A static electricity discharge can occur when removing the liner, creating sparks and igniting flammable vapors. Only use 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 in safe environments.

NOTE: These products are intended for resale for professional use only. All installations should be conducted by a professional installer.

NOTE: The protective film layer on the gloss and high gloss color films can be left on for the entire installation and must be removed before post-heating.

NOTE: High gloss color films require additional considerations prior to installation. See FAQ 2080 Installation for more details.

2080 was specifically designed for use on:

• Standard vehicle graphics, including solid color, detailing, and decoration

NOTE: The intended vehicle substrate is standard OEM vehicle paint. 2080 is NOT intended for stainless steel or powder coated metals.

2080 can also be used on:

• Commercial vehicle and fleet graphics, emblems, or striping
• Personal watercraft graphics as defined in 3M Instruction Bulletin Application: 5.42 (above the static water line only)

Visit 3Mgraphics.com/warranties for a complete list of compatible products approved by 3M for use with the base film covered in this bulletin and used for the creation of graphics that may be eligible for the 3M™ MCS™ Warranty or 3M Performance Guarantee.

Coatings or other aftermarket additions (such as, but not limited, to ceramic coatings) are excluded from the 3M™ MCS™ Warranty and should only be applied and/or used on a user test-and-approve basis. The end user assumes complete responsibility if using a coating or unsubstantiated cleaning product on their 2080 car wrap. 3M does NOT warrant 2080 films with coatings or other aftermarket additions.

Graphic Protection

Adding an overlaminate will make 2080 stiffer and more difficult to install.

NOTE: Printing on 2080 films is to be done strictly on a user test-and-approve basis. 3M does NOT warranty any printed application for 2080 film.

• 3M™ Wrap Overlaminate Series 8900

Numerical values in this table are the result of illustrative lab test measurements performed on unprocessed product. Results may vary, especially after the product is processed and/or installed. For more defined product characteristics, reach out to a local 3M sales representative.

* NOTE: Gray adhesive color may be darker or lighter depending on the film color.

* Check adhesion to powder-coated or water-based paints.

Factors Affecting Graphic Performance Life

The actual performance life of a graphic is affected by:

• The combination of graphic materials used
• Selection, condition, and preparation of the substrate
• Surface texture
• Application methods
• Angle and direction of sun exposure
• Environmental conditions
• Cleaning and maintenance methods

2080 Installation Over Vehicle Sensors, Radar, and Autonomous Equipment

The 3M™ MCS™ Warranty is for aesthetics and film integrity when installed and stored appropriately per 3M’s guidance. It is the vehicle owner and/or vehicle manufacturers responsibility to validate the compatibility of 2080 with any and all sensors or like equipment prior to installation. In order to ensure such equipment functions properly, 3M recommends users NEVER apply film over such equipment. Always test and confirm an installation does NOT create signal disruptions or loss of functionality prior to full adoption.

Layout Considerations for Graphic Panels

Take into account these considerations when planning your graphic layout:

• Textured, metallic, pearl, and color flip films may have a directional characteristic to their appearance. For the best overall appearance, install the film in a consistent orientation through the entire installation. 3M recommends checking the film’s orientation and color prior to installation. Do NOT alternate the film’s oreintation from panel to panel.
• Film colors can vary from lot-to-lot. Use the same lot number of film for an entire vehicle to achieve a consistent appearance.

See FAQ 2080 Installation for more installation details.

Handling Films

• Use a felt squeegee to install the film to minimize scratching.
• Use a heat gun instead of a torch when heat is needed. A torch may alter the appearance of the finish.

3M™ Primer 94

3M recommends using 3M™ Primer 94 to maximize a graphic’s bond to the substrate in any areas that will be stretched, particularly on the edges of the film.

Consult air quality regulations before using 3M™ Primer 94.

Cutting

3M recommends using 3M™ Knifeless™ Tape to perform all film cutting when installing 2080 on vehicles.

• See 3M Instruction Bulletin 4.1 for sheeting, scoring, and film cutting details.
• See 3M Product & Instruction Bulletin 4.19 Application: 3M™ Knifeless™ Tape for details on using 3M™ Knifeless™ Tape to cut film on vehicles.

NOTE: The thickness and texture of these films makes them more difficult to cut and weed cleanly. Use clean, sharp, properly aligned blades. The user must assume responsibility for the outcome, so always test and approve before cutting a large job.

Application Tapes

There are two types of application tapes. See 3M Instruction Bulletin AT-1 to determine what application tape is recommended for your 3M Graphics Products. Finished graphics eligible for any 3M warranty must be constructed using approved 3M Graphics Products. See the 3M Graphics Warranty Bulletin for more details.

Premasking Tape

Premasking tape increases stiffness during application while preventing stretching and damage. Use when little or no liner is exposed. See 3M Product Bulletin 4.3 for complete details.

Prespacing Tape

Prespacing tape holds cut and weeded letters or graphics in place during application and after removal of the film liner, while preventing stretching and damage. Use when large amounts of liner are exposed. See 3M Instruction Bulletin 4.3 for complete details.

NOTE: The texture on certain films in 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 makes it difficult for any application tape to adhere to the film. If used, apply the graphic as soon after cutting and applying an application tape as possible. Alway test and approve before committing to a job. See 3M Instruction Bulletin 4.3 for complete details.

3M Related Literature

NOTE: Never use a wet application method to apply this film.

In addition to other 3M bulletins specified in this document, the following bulletins provide details that you may need to successfully apply a graphic.

• 3M Product & Instruction Bulletin 4.19 Application: 3M™ Knifeless Tape
• 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.36 Application Techniques for Automobiles, Vans, and Buses
  • Complete the 3M Pre-Installation Inspection Record found in 5.36 prior to manufacturing or applying a graphic to an automobile, van, or bus.
• 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.4 Application: Fleet Trucks
• 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.42 Application: Special Considerations for Watercraft
  • Complete the 3M Pre-Installation Inspection Record found in 5.42 prior to manufacturing or applying a graphic to a watercraft.
• 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.45 Application and Maintenance of Graphics for Rail Applications
• 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.46 Application on Substrates with Recesses
• 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.5 Application: General Procedures for Interior and Exterior Dry Applications.
• 3M Wrap Film Product Care Guide
• 3M Vehicle Cleaning SOP

Pressure-activated Adhesive

The pressure activated adhesive on this film offers:

• smooth sliding into position on a substrate;
• fast finger tacking to check positioning; and
• easy snap-up and repositioning when you need it.

The snap-up and reposition feature is lost:

• when firm pressure with a squeegee or other application tool is applied;
• at application temperatures above 100°F (38°C) even if only light finger pressure was used for tacking;
• if any part of the film is removed from the original liner and reapplied to the same or another liner; or
• if solvent from inkjet ink has not completely dried or cured, affecting both slideability and snap-up.

Working with Non-Visible Air Release Channels

Air release channels are a characteristic of films with Comply™ adhesive, allowing trapped air to exit through the edges of the graphic.

• The channels will be damaged if installers remove and attempt to change liners or reapply the same liner.
• For the best results, always work from the center of a graphic out to the edges to allow trapped air to escape. Use an air release tool to help remove any trapped air bubbles. See 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.4 for details.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Use care to avoid scratching the film. Never scrub the film. Scratching and abrasion marks may be visible and may not be able to be worked out of the film’s unique finish. Avoid using harsh chemicals and brushes when cleaning the vehicle, and avoid parking near shrubs, trees, and any other items that could scratch the vehicle. 3M recommends storing wrapped vehicles in a temperature controlled garage. See 3M FAQ Vehicle Care for details.

Use a cleaner designed for high-quality painted surfaces. 3M recommends users test the cleaner on a small area prior to full adoption. The cleaner must be wet, non-abrasive, without solvents, and have a pH value between 3 and 11 (neither strongly acidic nor strongly alkaline). See 3M Instruction Bulletin 6.5 for details.

NOTE: Refer to the FAQ 2080 Maintenance for a list of approved waxes and polishes to use with 2080 films.

Removal

Removal requires heat and/or chemicals. 3M makes no claims as to the speed of removal. This product may not remove similarly to other products in the same category. See 3M Instruction Bulletin 6.5 for details.

Shelf Life

The shelf life is never more than three years from the date of manufacture on the original box.

Processing the film changes its shelf life to one year from the processing date, but no later than three years from the manufacturing date.

Storage Conditions

• 40°F to 100°F (4°C to 38°C)
• Out of sunlight
• Clean, dry area
• Original container
• Bring the film to room temperature before use

Chemicals

When handling any chemical products, read the manufacturers’ container labels and the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for important health, safety, and environmental information.

• Follow this link to obtain SDS sheets for 3M products.
• Follow this link to obtain information about substances of very high concern (SVHC) for EU products.

Tools and Equipment Usage

When using any equipment, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation.

Technical information, guidance, and other statements provided by 3M are based upon records, tests, or experience that 3M believes to be reliable, but the accuracy, completeness, and representative nature of such information is not guaranteed. Such information is intended for people with knowledge and technical skills sufficient to assess and apply their own informed judgment to the information. No license to any intellectual property rights is granted or implied with respect to this technical information.

Product Selection and Use

Many factors beyond 3M’s control and uniquely within user’s knowledge and control can affect the use and performance of a 3M product in a particular application. Customer is solely responsible for evaluating the product and determining whether it is appropriate and suitable for customer’s application, including conducting a workplace hazard assessment, reviewing all applicable regulations and standards, and reviewing the product label and use instructions. Failure to properly evaluate, select, and use a 3M product in accordance with instructions or to meet all applicable safety regulations may result in injury, sickness, death, and/or harm to property.

Warranty, Limited Remedy, and Disclaimer

Unless a different warranty is specifically stated on the applicable 3M product packaging or product literature (in which case such warranty governs), 3M warrants that each 3M product meets the applicable 3M product specification at the time 3M ships the product. 3M makes no other warranties or conditions, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any warranty or condition of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or arising out of a course of dealing, custom, or usage of trade. If a 3M product does not conform to this warranty, the sole and exclusive remedy is, at 3M’s option, replacement of the 3M product or refund of the purchase price.

Limitation of Liability

Except for the limited remedy stated above, and except to the extent prohibited by law, 3M will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from or related to the 3M product, whether direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential (including, but not limited to, lost profits or business opportunity), regardless of the legal or equitable theory asserted, including, but not limited to, warranty, contract, negligence, or strict liability.

As an industry first, all 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 gloss films have a conformable Protective Film Layer over the top film surface. The benefits for installers include:

• Helps reduce surface impressions* during installation and removes easily and cleanly
• Protects against impressions and scratches and will not transfer to wrap film
• Conforms to wrap complexly curved body panels without removing protective film layer first
• Enables easier installation thanks to lowered surface friction

When finishing installations around corners and panel edges, installers should peel the Protective Film Layer back several inches before tucking and performing their normal finishing.

3M™ Knifeless Tape can easily cut through Series 2080 and the Protective Film Layer, meaning installers do not need to remove it before doing accenting and finishing cuts.

*Surface impressions are commonly known as hazing, blotchy and mottled appearances on gloss film.

Leave on the Protective Film Layer for the entire installation, and remove before post-heating.

3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 is more conformable than the previous 3M™ Wrap Film Series 1080, enabling easier installation with less heat.

• For best results with 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080, do not overstretch material when conforming around curvature.
• Do not use a torch during installs with 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080. Heat guns are far less likely to haze or damage the material’s surface or gloss level.
  • If hazing occurs, use a heat gun to bring the film back to its original gloss level.
• 3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 can be installed utilizing the same standard installation techniques as the previous 3M™ Wrap Film Series 1080 and 1380.
• 3M recommends using a slip solution for best results during installation. Some examples of common slip solutions are:
  • 3M™ Paint-Protection Film Installation Gel
  • Mixture of mild detergent and water
• Always post-heat wrap thoroughly after installation to prevent the material from lifting over time.

3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 (“2080”) is a multi-layer cast adhesive backed film for full color vehicle wraps, accents, or partial decoration wraps.

Additional new features of 2080 high gloss color films include:

• An optimized adhesive for exceptional installation experience, related to reduced initial tack and improved repositionability*
• Smooth high gloss finish after installation

*Other 2080 colors will also have this new adhesive based on the manufacturing schedule. Contact 3M Product Support for more details.

All wrap films, including 2080, should be applied to a “like new” vehicle finish for the best results. 3M’s warranty only applies to vehicles that have an excellent bond between the paint and the vehicle substrate. Any rust, bubbling, scratches, dents, or other damage will be visible through the film, and such imperfections may damage the film or cause the film to fail prematurely. Areas repaired with body filler must be sanded, epoxy primed, and, for best results, finished with an original equipment manufacturer paint or clear coat. Any recently applied finish must be fully cured according to the paint manufacturer’s directions before film is applied.

Any defect in the paint (including scratches, dents, bubbling, pitting, fisheyes, and orange peel) may be visible through any 2080 film. This is especially a concern with the high gloss 2080 films, as the high gloss magnifies these defects. 3M recommends that a professional paint correction is performed before the installation of any 2080 films when heavy orange peeling is present on a vehicle. Failure to do so will result in high gloss films taking on the orange peel appearance. Wrap shops should set proper expectations for their customers before installing any 2080 film, especially when using high gloss 2080 films.

Cleaning the application surface properly is one of the most important steps to a good application. Read 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.36 for complete details.

Working with 2080 high gloss films requires a clean installation environment. Keep the floors clean of dust and debris to lessen the chance of contaminants getting under the film. Lint-free clothing and hair covers may also be necessary. Film should be installed immediately after the installation surface has been cleaned.

Applying 3M™ Wrap Overlaminate Series 8900 can alter the appearance of 2080 films’ inherent texture. If graphic protection other than 3M™ Wrap Overlaminate Series 8900 is used, then the wrap shop assumes all risk for testing, approving, suitability, and warranty.

IMPORTANT NOTE: All 2080 gloss and high gloss color films have a protective film layer on the surface. This protective film layer MUST be removed before applying an overlaminate.

3M™ Wrap Film Series 2080 is available in many colors, textures, and finishes, and is intended to be used without further processing. If the film is printed, with or without graphic protection, the wrap shop assumes all risk for testing, approving, suitability, and warranty.

IMPORTANT NOTE: All 2080 gloss and high gloss film colors have a protective film layer on the surface. This protective film layer MUST be removed before printing.

The protective film layer is classified as recyclable plastic Number 4. Recycling programs vary from country to country and may not be available in your area. Ask your local solid waste authority about their plastic Number 4 recycling program.

Yes, 2080 films are compatible with 3M™ Knifeless™ Tape. See Instruction Bulletin 4.19 for further information.

Yes. All 2080 films have some texture integral to creating their unique looks. The carbon fiber films have the most texture, which appears to have more depth in certain lighting conditions, giving it a somewhat striped look.

Lot-to-lot variations are not common in 2080 film colors as 3M has specifications in place to prevent large color variations. However film colors can vary slighly from lot to lot. To ensure the most consistent color, use the same film lot number for an entire installation.

Yes. Certain 2080 film colors, such as textured, metallic, pearl, and color flip films may have a directional characteristic to their appearance. To achieve the best overall apperance, install the film in a consistent orientation for the entire installation. 3M recommends checking the film’s orientation and color prior to installation. Do NOT alternate a film’s orientation from panel to panel. Follow the directional arrows on the liner when installing 2080 films to achieve consistency and help prevent color shifts from panel to panel. See 3M.com/2080 and 3M Product Bulletin 2080 for details.

IMPORTANT NOTE: High gloss 2080 color films currently do NOT have directional arrows on their liners. Some high gloss colors exhibit directionality characteristics, making it important to install high gloss films in a consistent orientation across the entire installation. 3M recommends checking the film’s orientation prior to installation to ensure its color and directionality match across the entire installation.

All 2080 gloss and high gloss films have a protective film layer on the surface. Do NOT use masking tape on the protective film layer. Wrap the outer layer of 2080 gloss and high gloss films with paper and fix the paper in place with tape to prevent the tape from damaging the film. Clips can also be used to store 2080 gloss and high gloss films. See 3M Product Bulletin 2080 for further information.

3M Instruction Bulletin 5.36 provides specific instructions for installing vehicle wraps. 3M also offers world-class training for professional growth, as well as opportunities to earn an installer endorsement from 3M and be listed on the 3M website.

Installation of 2080 films is very similar to that of 3M™ Print Wrap Film IJ180mC (“IJ180mC”) films. 2080 has the same features as IJ180mC (that is, slidable and repositionable adhesive with virtually invisible air release channels), but be aware of these important installation practices:

• Align the graphic using masking tape.
• Apply edge protection to the squeegee, such as PTFE tape or loop tape.
• Use a heat gun, never a torch.

3M™ Primer 94 can help any film adhere to deep channels and complex contours. Refer to 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.36 and 3M Instruction Bulletin 5.46 for recommendations.

No. 3M does not recommend or warrant using a wetting solution on the vehicle surface when applying any film with air release channels. However, the installer may use a wetting solution on top of the film layer to provide some slip resistance for the squeegee.

Yes, particularly for the Carbon Fiber and Metal finishes and for 3M™ Wrap Overlaminate Series 8900. Because of the unique patterns designed into these films for their realistic looking finish, improper application techniques show more readily on these finishes. Proper stretching and heating of the film is essential to avoid creating visual imperfections, which can appear as dents, bends, stretch marks, or kinks in the finish.

To ensure a successful application:

• If stretching is required, stretch large sections of the film. Stretching the film in smaller sections may cause a series of stretch marks at every location where stretching occurred.
• Always use even tension when stretching the film. Avoid applying too much force in one particular area, as this may distort the film’s finish.
• Apply as little heat, using only a heat gun, as possible to stretch the film. The temperature at the surface of the film should not exceed 150°F (65°C).
• Avoid applying heat directly to where the film attaches to the substrate.

3M organizes coverage for its Graphics Products into three tiers, described here in general terms from the 3M Graphics Warranties brochure (a catalog-wide overview, not specific to 2080):

The warranty coverage for eligible graphics is based on the user both reading and following all applicable and current 3M Graphics product and instruction bulletins. The warranty period for eligible graphics is as stated in the 3M Graphics Warranties Matrices at the time that the film was purchased.

Comprehensive 3M™ MCS™ Warranty: up to eight years of protection on vertical applications.*

* Warranty varies by zone.