UV Printing: A New Technology In Packaging And Printing 95385
Direct-To-Object, or DTO printing, is a distinctive form of digital printing that involves using ultraviolet (UV) light to cure or dry the ink almost as soon as it is applied to a prepared substrate. This unique UV printing process is very special. It can be used with flat and cylindrical objects. It can be made of metals, acrylics, plastic, glass and canvas. As the UV ink is distributed onto the substrate, specialized ultraviolet lights within the printer are immediately applied to the material over the top of the ink, drying it and adhering it to the substrate.
Initially, UV printing was used to create gel nail polishes. After the gel polish is applied, a UV light is More Info used to cure the polish onto the surface of the nails. This results in a flawless manicure that is quick drying, durable, and long-lasting. The benefits of UV light applications began to expand and were now used in the commercial and industrial markets. This was the beginning of UV printing and the associated printing business. It is now used to create flyers, leaflets, signs, screen printing, and even bottle labels, just a few examples. UV printing is not unlike traditional printing. But the inks used as well the drying and curing methods are different. This is in addition to the distinct nature of the printing technology itself.
Traditional printing involves the application of solvent inks to a substrate. Heat is used to cure them. Solvent-based inks can evaporate, spread out onto the surface of the substrate before they are dried, and release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The heat used to cure the solvent ink to the substrate produces an unpleasant odor. Furthermore, the solvent inks are absorbed into the substrate, which can result in faded colors. Additionally, spray powders prevent the offsetting and drying of ink, and the whole process can take several days. Due to the nature of the printing press, traditional printing can only be done on paper and other similar materials. It cannot be used on other materials such as metal, plastic, glass, or acrylic.
Specialized UV inks can be used for UV printing. Instead of heat, high-intensity LED ultraviolet lights are used to cure the ink onto the medium that it is printed on. The ultraviolet light follows closely behind the ink as it is distributed onto the substrate. As a result, the ink dries immediately, no matter what material (or materials) are used. The ink does not evaporate because it dries quickly. Therefore, it can't spread onto the material that it is printed on.
This UV printing process and associated ink transfer are eco-friendly and quick drying. It can be used with many materials including paper, foil, acrylic and foam. Additionally, no VOCs, ozone, or toxic fumes are released into the air. This feature is a great option for companies who value sustainability in their printing processes.
Imagine the possibilities when you consider digitally printing directly to the item instead of printing on a sticker and then needing to place the sticker on the object. DTO Direct-To-Object lets you print in full-color directly to the object.
