The Emerging Technology Of UV Printing In The Packaging And Printing Industry

Direct-To-Object printing (or DTO printing) is a distinct form of digital print that uses ultraviolet (UV), light to cure and dry ink almost as quickly as it is applied on a substrate. Unique UV printing is possible. 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.

The UV printing process was initially developed for gel nail polishes. After the gel polish is applied, a UV light is used to cure the polish onto the surface of the nails. The result is a quick-drying, long-lasting, and flawless manicure. However, eventually, the benefits of using ultraviolet light began to be recognized and started being used in industrial and commercial markets. This is the basis of UV printing services, and the associated printing industry. This technology is used to produce flyers, leaflets and screen printing. UV printing is not unlike traditional printing. The inks used, as well as the drying and curing process, 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 solvent inks can evaporate, spread onto the substrate and then release volatile organic compound (VOCs). The heat used to cure the solvent ink to the substrate produces an unpleasant odor. The solvent inks can also be absorbed into the substrate which can cause faded colors. Spray powders also make it difficult to dry the ink and prevent it from offsetting. This can cause the entire process to take several days. Because of the nature and limitations of traditional printing, paper and similar materials are the only options. It cannot be used on other materials such as metal, plastic, glass, or acrylic.

With UV printing, specialized UV inks are used. Instead of heat, high-intensity LED ultraviolet lights are used to cure the ink onto the medium that it is printed on. As the ink is applied to the substrate, the ultraviolet light follows closely. As a result, the ink dries immediately, no matter what material (or materials) are used. Since the ink dries almost immediately, it does not evaporate, and as such, it cannot spread out onto the material 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. The air is free from VOCs, ozone and toxic fumes. This feature is a great option for companies who value Look at this website sustainability in their printing processes.

Imagine all the possibilities that digitally printing directly onto the item can bring. DTO Direct-To-Object allows you to print in full color directly on the item.