UV-3D Printing: The Next Generation of ADA Sign Fabrication
By Mike Shabluk | April 25, 2023
Over the years, the way we design and create ADA signage has evolved significantly. New technologies have made sign fabrication faster, more efficient, and more reliable. While traditional UV direct printing has been a go-to process for many sign shops, a newer method – UV-3D printing is quickly gaining attention.
If you’re unfamiliar with UV-3D printing, now is a great time to learn about it. This technology combines the speed of UV printing with the dimensional capabilities needed for tactile signage, making it a strong solution for ADA sign fabrication.
What Is UV-3D Printing?
UV-3D printing is a process that combines the fast-curing properties of UV printing with the layering capabilities of 3D printing. UV-hardening ink is applied to a substrate in multiple layers, with each layer cured before the next is added. The finished result is a durable, dimensional element permanently adhered to the sign surface.
In simple terms, UV-3D printing is a layered printing process.
For ADA signage, those layers can be used to create:
- Raised text and numbers
- Braille
- Detailed graphics
- Decorative textures
How Is UV-3D Printing Different from Traditional UV Printing?
As mentioned above, UV-3D printing is the next evolution of UV printing. The key difference is that traditional UV printing typically deposits a single layer of ink, while UV-3D printing builds multiple layers to create noticeable height and texture.
Because of this, UV-3D printing is ideal for applications where tactile elements and dimension are required, such as ADA signage.
The equipment also differs. Standard UV printing is completed with a UV direct printer, while UV-3D printing requires specialized UV-LED printers capable of building dimensional layers that meet ADA requirements.
What Equipment and Materials Are Needed for UV-3D Printing Signs?
The equipment used for UV-3D printing shares some similarities with traditional UV printing, but several components are essential for producing ADA-compliant signage.
Material substrate
As with any sign project, selecting the right substrate is critical. One advantage of UV-3D printing is its ability to create raised characters, graphics, and textures on a variety of surfaces.
For ADA signage, durable materials such as acrylic and laminate are among the most common choices.
UV-hardening ink
The ink used in the printing process plays a central role in the final result. To create tactile elements, the ink must be formulated to build vertically in layers while maintaining durability.
It’s also important to use ink approved for the specific printer being used. Many manufacturers offer both rigid and flexible ink options to accommodate different substrates.
Design program
A compatible design program is needed to develop layouts that meet ADA requirements. Not every design platform is suitable for UV-3D printing.
The software should allow precise control over dimensional elements and work seamlessly with the printer’s production workflow.
Specialty printer
UV-3D printing requires a specialized UV-LED printer designed to build layers of UV-hardening ink to specific heights.
It’s worth noting that relatively few printers currently offer the capabilities necessary to produce ADA-compliant Braille and tactile signage consistently.
The Collaboration Between Direct Color Systems and MUTOH
Direct Color Systems (DCS) is a leading manufacturer of UV-LED inkjet printers and holds a patent related to the production of direct-to-substrate ADA-compliant Braille signage.
For years, only select DCS printers were capable of reliably producing UV-printed ADA signs. That changed in April 2022 when DCS announced a collaboration with MUTOH America, Inc., a recognized manufacturer of wide-format printers, cutters, inks, and accessories.
This collaboration allows MUTOH to offer UV-LED printers that can be used for ADA and Braille sign production utilizing DCS intellectual property.
Tom Kaplinski, President of DCS, stated:
“This collaboration recognizes the importance of DCS intellectual property relating to technology for producing ADA-compliant Braille signage and enables MUTOH to promote and sell their own line of printing equipment through their distribution channels and to their end-users.”
At Erie Custom Signs, we’re excited to have a new MUTOH XpertJet 661 UF printer in our shop for UV-3D printing ADA signage.
Why Is UV-3D Printing Ideal for ADA Signage?
Like traditional UV printing, UV-3D printing can be applied across a wide range of projects. However, its ability to produce tactile elements makes it especially valuable for ADA signage.
Creating ADA-compliant signs requires precision, and errors can create challenges for both sign providers and end users. Working with a fabricator that has UV-3D printing capabilities can help ensure a reliable, finished product.
Here are some of the reasons UV-3D printing is particularly well-suited for ADA signage.
1. It requires less material and equipment than other processes.
UV-3D printing is an additive manufacturing process, meaning material is built up rather than removed.
Unlike fabrication methods such as photopolymer or Raster® Braille, UV-3D printing allows multiple ADA components—including Braille and tactile text—to be produced with a single machine. This can simplify production and reduce the need for additional equipment.
2. It can produce raised elements in a wide range of colors.
Specialized DCS and MUTOH printers can create tactile text, graphics, and other dimensional elements in various colors.
Many systems can also print white ink, giving sign shops greater flexibility when matching client branding or interior design requirements.
3. It offers greater durability.
Because raised elements are built directly onto the substrate, they become an integrated part of the sign surface.
As a result, tactile features are less susceptible to chipping, damage, or wear. For clients concerned about longevity, this added durability is a significant advantage.
4. Production is faster than many traditional methods.
One of the biggest benefits of UV-3D printing is efficiency.
Since the ink cures instantly and fewer fabrication steps are involved, production can move much faster than with some conventional ADA sign manufacturing methods. Faster production often means shorter lead times for clients.
5. It helps support ADA compliance.
When used with properly configured DCS or MUTOH equipment, UV-3D printing can make it easier to achieve required tactile character heights and Grade 2 Braille specifications.
This helps sign professionals produce ADA-compliant signage with greater consistency and confidence.
Takeaway
ADA sign fabrication continues to evolve, and UV-3D printing represents one of the most significant advancements in recent years. By combining dimensional printing capabilities with the speed and efficiency of UV technology, it offers a streamlined approach to producing durable, ADA-compliant signage.
For sign shops looking to expand their ADA signage offerings without investing in specialized equipment, partnering with an experienced wholesale fabricator can be a practical solution.
If you’d like to learn more about incorporating UV-3D printed ADA signs into your projects, reach out to our team. We’re always happy to help trade partners find the right solution for their clients.
FAQ
What is UV-3D printing?
UV-3D printing is a process that builds layers of UV-curable ink on a substrate to create raised text, Braille, graphics, and textures.
Can UV-3D printing be used for ADA signage?
Yes. Specialized UV-LED printers can produce tactile lettering and Grade 2 Braille used in ADA-compliant signage.
What materials can be used with UV-3D printing?
Common ADA sign substrates include acrylic and laminate, though the technology can be used on many rigid materials.
How is UV-3D printing different from traditional UV printing?
Traditional UV printing typically applies a single layer of ink, while UV-3D printing builds multiple layers to create dimensional and tactile elements.
Why are sign shops interested in UV-3D printing?
The process can reduce production complexity, increase durability, speed up manufacturing, and support ADA compliance requirements.