UV Printing: An Emerging Technology In The Packaging And Printing Industry 91987

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. This unique UV printing process is very special. The substrate can include flat objects and any domed or cylindrical objects. It can be made of metals, acrylics, plastic, glass and canvas. 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. After the gel polish is applied, a UV light is used to cure the polish onto the surface of the nails. It results in a fast-drying, flawless manicure. Eventually, however, the benefits of ultraviolet light applications expanded and began being used in 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 very similar to traditional printing. But the inks used as well the drying and curing methods are different. This is due to the unique nature of the printing technology.

With traditional printing, solvent inks are applied to a substrate, and heat is used to cure the ink. Solvent-based solvent inks can evaporate, spread onto the substrate and then release volatile organic compound (VOCs). An unpleasant odor is caused by heat that cures the solvent ink. 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 is not compatible charma.uprm.edu/twiki/bin/view/Main/AndradeCyndy691 with metal, plastics, glass, acrylic, or other materials.

For UV printing, UV inks that are specifically designed for this purpose can be used. 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. No matter what substrate is used, the ink will dry quickly. 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. Additionally, no VOCs, ozone, or toxic fumes are released into the air. This feature will interest companies that prize sustainability in their printing processes.

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