How To Request Free Samples Of 3M Dichroic Glass Finishes

3M Dichroic Glass Finishes offer a sophisticated alternative to traditional dichroic glass, providing the same striking visual impact at a fraction of the price. For designers, architects, and homeowners interested in these unique color-shifting films, free samples are available through several official channels. This article explores how to obtain free samples of 3M dichroic films, the different options available, their technical specifications, and their applications in various settings.

What are 3M Dichroic Films: 3M Dichroic Glass Finishes are decorative films that mimic the brilliant iridescent look of pigment-less butterfly wings. These shimmering color-shifting films are made with premium materials and are available in both warm and cool tones. The films combine beauty, light, and color with 3M's technology to create a unique solution for interior glass surfaces. They are designed to duplicate the look of dichroic glass at a small fraction of the price of real dichroic glass.

The films are constructed with premium materials and feature a pressure-sensitive adhesive, making them suitable for various applications. They are value-engineered products that save money while enhancing the beauty of spaces. The dichroic effect creates a dynamic, color-shifting effect that enhances modern architectural designs, but at a much more accessible price point.

Where to Request Free Samples: There are several official channels through which interested parties can request free samples of 3M dichroic films:

1. EPD (Engineered Polymer Design) offers free samples specifically for the Architecture & Design (A&D) community. EPD provides a platform where A&D professionals can see, touch, and specify 3M film samples. Registration is required to request these free samples, and they offer expert support and guidance throughout the process. EPD's website features a dedicated section for the A&D community where samples can be requested, and visitors can also chat with Jeffrey Lipitz, EPD's Refresh Specialist, for expert support.

2. Levey Industries, a distributor of 3M products, also provides an option to request free samples of dichroic glass finishes. Their website allows users to browse various glass finishes by category and request samples of styles they like. Levey Industries positions these films as combining beauty, light, and color with extraordinary 3M technology to create unique, affordable solutions for interior glass surfaces.

3. Freeflys, a free stuff guide, offers free 3M product samples in the mail, though they do not specify which particular 3M products will be sent. The form on their site allows users to request free samples, and the samples are shipped directly from the brands, not from Freeflys. While Freeflys does not specifically mention dichroic samples in their offering, it remains a potential channel for obtaining 3M samples, including possibly dichroic options.

Sample Options and Specifications: When requesting free samples of 3M dichroic films, customers can expect to receive small swatches that showcase the unique color-shifting properties of the material. According to the product information, free samples of 3M Dichroic Chill are available in a 5" X 7" size.

The dichroic films are available in two main options: - DF-PA Blaze: Available in warm tones - DF-PA Chill: Available in cool tones

These options allow designers and consumers to select the aesthetic that best fits their specific project needs. The full-sized rolls are 48 inches wide and 98.25 feet long, though samples provide a sufficient representation of the material's visual characteristics for evaluation purposes. The product is available as a full roll (48" X 98.4'), partial roll (sold by the linear foot), or free sample (5" X 7").

Application and Use Cases: 3M dichroic films can be applied to new or existing glass surfaces, both indoors and outdoors. This versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of applications in residential, commercial, and institutional settings. Some specific use cases include:

1. Architectural Elements: The films can be used to enhance modern architectural designs, creating dynamic focal points in buildings, offices, and public spaces. Applied to new or existing glass, these durable films cost around 10% of traditional dichroic glass, freeing up budget for other design elements.

2. Interior Design: In interior spaces, the films can be applied to glass partitions, doors, windows, and room dividers to add visual interest and privacy. The films provide high-level performance in glass finishes while improving privacy for inhabitants.

3. Commercial Spaces: Retail environments, restaurants, and hospitality venues can use the films to create distinctive atmospheres and branded elements.

4. Healthcare Facilities: The dichroic films are WELL Certified, making them approved for healthcare facilities where aesthetics, privacy, and wellbeing are important considerations.

5. Corporate and Institutional Settings: The films are ideal for any interior glass surface in corporate, commercial, and institutional venues.

Technical Information and Related Products: 3M dichroic films are constructed with premium materials and feature a pressure-sensitive adhesive for easy application. They are designed to be durable and long-lasting, maintaining their vibrant color-shifting properties over time.

The films are part of 3M's broader range of architectural finishes, which also includes products like 3M FASARA decorative films and 3M DI-NOC architectural finishes. These complementary products offer additional design options for those working on glass and other surfaces.

3M FASARA Decorative Films offer 100+ patterns and textures to achieve the look of custom glass with greater flexibility and efficiency. As a value-engineered alternative to sandblasting or etching—often at less than a third of the cost—these films enhance privacy, diffuse light, and add a distinctive design element to any space.

3M Dusted & Frosted Crystal vinyl films create the look of etched or sandblasted glass with greater design flexibility and cost efficiency. These films create privacy and disperse light—at a third of the cost of actual frosted glass. They are ideal for interior and exterior applications and can be digitally printed or precision-cut to integrate custom patterns, logos, or branded distraction markers.

3M DI-NOC is a state-of-the-art matte surface that converts incident light into diffuse reflection, providing very low gloss and a deep, high-quality matte texture. The matte texture provides fingerprint resistance, reducing the visibility of fingerprints with an easy-to-maintain surface. A realistic matte texture is created by combining matte coating technology with high-definition embossing technology.

While the dichroic films focus on color-shifting effects, these other 3M architectural finishes provide different aesthetic solutions. Together, they form a comprehensive suite of options for various design needs.

The dichroic films are also environmentally conscious, contributing to LEED credits and supporting health and wellbeing for both people and the environment. This makes them an attractive option for sustainable design projects. As an advocate for health and wellbeing for both people and the environment, 3M's glass surfacing treatments provide high-level performance in glass finishes while improving privacy for inhabitants.

How to Request Samples: The process for requesting free samples varies depending on the source:

1. For EPD's sample program, interested parties need to register on their website and then can request samples through their platform. EPD also offers the opportunity to chat with a refresh specialist for expert guidance. The EPD website specifically mentions "Free Samples for A&D Professionals" and encourages users to "See, Touch, Specify" when registering to request free samples.

2. When requesting samples through Levey Industries, users can browse the available dichroic glass finishes by category and request samples of styles they like directly through the website. The company invites visitors to "browse our various Glass Finishes by Category and when you find styles you like, please request free samples."

3. For Freeflys, users need to fill out a form to request free 3M samples. The website also offers the option to sign up for daily email alerts about new freebies and savings tips. Freeflys suggests that "the best way to get the most freebies is to sign-up for New Freebie Alerts so you know right away when a freebie goes live and you can be amongst the first to claim one."

It's important to note that sample requests through these channels may take time to fulfill. According to Freeflys, samples may take 2 to 8 weeks to arrive in the mail, as they are shipped directly from the brands. The website advises users to "be patient" while waiting for their samples to arrive.

Additional Resources: For those interested in learning more about 3M dichroic films and related products, several technical resources are available:

1. Product Catalogs: Both EPD and Levey Industries provide catalogs of 3M architectural finishes, including dichroic options.

2. Interactive Catalogs: Some platforms offer interactive catalogs that provide a more engaging way to explore the product range.

3. Technical Data Sheets: These documents provide detailed specifications about the materials, dimensions, and performance characteristics of the films.

4. Installation Guides: For those planning to apply the films themselves, installation guides are available to ensure proper application and optimal results.

These resources can help users make informed decisions about which products best suit their needs and how to properly install them for the best results.

Conclusion

Free samples of 3M dichroic glass finishes provide an excellent opportunity for designers, architects, and homeowners to experience the unique color-shifting properties of these innovative films before committing to a larger purchase. Through official channels like EPD, Levey Industries, and Freeflys, interested parties can obtain small swatches that showcase the material's aesthetic qualities.

The dichroic films offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional dichroic glass, providing the same striking visual impact at approximately 10% of the cost. With applications ranging from residential interiors to commercial and healthcare settings, these films offer versatility alongside their distinctive appearance.

By taking advantage of the free sample programs, consumers and professionals can make informed decisions about incorporating 3M dichroic films into their design projects, ensuring the perfect aesthetic match for their specific needs. The availability of technical resources and expert guidance further supports the selection and application process, helping users achieve the desired results with confidence.

Sources

1. 3M Dichroic Chill (DFPA/DF-PA) 48" Wide Roll
2. DICHROIC Glass Finishes by 3M™
3. Free 3M Samples on Freeflys
4. EPD Architecture and Design Community
5. 3M DI-NOC Architectural Finishes