Alpha Associates Introduces New Vapor Retarder Laminate VR-R.

March 3, 1999

Alpha Associates VR-R is a triple-ply laminate consisting of a white polypropylene film with a metalized polyester film backing and fiberglass scrim reinforcement. The components are bonded together by a high performance flame-retardant adhesive. VR-R is designed to be used as a metal building facing. Its many advantages include excellent vapor retardancy and a wide temperature resistance range (-40 ??q to +220 ??q F). It has a 0.02 perm rating, is a ULClass 1 building material, and meets the requirements of NFPA255 Class 1 when tested in accordance with UL723.

VR-R is a low-cost, high-performance alternative to paper-backed facings. Despite their physical drawbacks, paper backings have continued to be used because of the overall price sensitivity of the market. Now metal building insulation can be given the superior protection of polyester film at the cost of non-metal paper-backed facings.

Alpha VR-R has excellent strength and opacity and provides light reflectivity of 85%. Unlike paper, it is nonabsorbent and so will not weaken or delaminate when wet. Laminators can save on adhesive costs when laminating to fiberglass blankets with new VR-R versus paper-backed facings, because VRR will not absorb expensive laminating adhesive.

VR-R is used in structures such as warehouses and manufacturing facilities. It remains pliable in cold weather and eliminates the cracking and handling problems typical of vinyl facings. Similarly, VR-R eliminates the sharp edges common to paper-backed facings and improves installer safety. Manufactured by Alpha Associates at their Woodbridge, N.J., plant, Alpha VR-R is available in all standard widths, including 78, 70, 60, 54 and 42 inches.

For more information, contact:

ALPHA Associates, Inc.
2 Amboy Avenue
Woodbridge, N.J. 07095
Telephone: (732) 634-5700
Toll Free: (800) 631-5399
Fax: (732) 634-1430