Benefits And Uses Of UV Direct-to-object Full Color Printing 39248

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. The substrate can include flat objects and any domed or cylindrical objects. This can consist of almost all metals, acrylic, plastic, glass, canvas, and even wood. The UV ink is applied onto the substrate using specialized ultraviolet lamps. Once dry, they are adhered to the substrate with adhesive.

Initially, the UV printing process was developed for gel nail varnishes. A UV light is used after the gel polish has been applied to cure it onto 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. The inks used, as well as the drying and curing process, are different. This is due to the unique nature of the printing technology.

Traditional printing uses solvent inks that are applied to a substrate and heated to cure it. Solvent-based inks can evaporate, spread out onto the surface of the substrate before they are dried, and release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Unpleasing odor is produced by the heat used to cure solvent ink to substrate. Additionally, solvent inks can absorb into the substrate and cause color fade. Spray powders can also prevent ink from drying and offsetting, which can lead to a slow and tedious process. Due to the nature of the printing press, traditional printing can only be done on paper and other similar materials. It can't be used on 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 ink is spread onto the substrate by the ultraviolet light. 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.

In addition to the quick-drying capabilities and the eco-friendliness of UV printing, this ultraviolet printing method and the associated form of ink transfer can also be used with various materials, including paper, plastic, foil, acrylic, foam, etc. The air is free from VOCs, ozone and toxic fumes. 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 Full Color UV Customized Printed Products then needing to place the sticker on the object. With DTO Direct-To-Object, printing in full color is applied directly to the item.