The Emerging Technology Of UV Printing For 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. 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. After the UV ink has been applied to the substrate, the special ultraviolet lights in the printer immediately apply the ink to the material, drying it, and adhering to it to the substrate.
Initially, UV printing was used to create gel nail polishes. The gel polish is then applied to the nails using a UV light. This results in a flawless manicure that is quick drying, durable, and long-lasting. Eventually, however, the benefits of ultraviolet light applications expanded and began being used in commercial and industrial 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. 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.
With traditional printing, solvent inks are applied to a substrate, and heat is used to cure the ink. Solvent-based inks can evaporate, spread out onto the surface of the substrate before they are dried, and release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). An unpleasant odor is caused by heat that cures the solvent ink. The solvent inks can also be absorbed into the substrate which can cause faded colors. Additionally, spray Full Color UV Corporate Printed Products powders prevent the offsetting and drying of ink, and the whole process can take several days. Traditional printing is generally limited to paper and similar materials due to the nature of the printing press. It can't be used on metal, plastic, glass or acrylic.
Specialized UV inks can be used for UV printing. High-intensity LED ultraviolet light is used to cure the ink onto its substrate. As the ink is applied to the substrate, the ultraviolet light follows closely. The ink will dry immediately regardless of the substrate. Because the ink is dry almost immediately, it doesn't evaporate and cannot spread onto the printed material.
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. There are no VOCs or ozone emissions into the atmosphere. Companies that value sustainability in their printing processes will appreciate this feature.
Imagine all the possibilities when digitally printing is possible on an item. Instead of using a sticker to attach to the object, you can imagine the possibilities. DTO Direct-To-Object allows you to print in full color directly on the item.
