UV Printing Applications: Using This Method for Custom ADA Signage and More
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The topic of UV printing applications has become a popular one over recent years, as manufacturers have started to see the potential of using this method to fabricate a wide assortment of products.
As a sign shop owner, you know there are countless new tools and processes you could be taking advantage of to create signage in-house. After all, technology is constantly evolving, making it even easier to provide your clients with the high-quality displays they need in a timely manner.
But if you lack the space and resources to invest in new equipment such as a UV direct printer, then you’ve probably ignored all talk of UV printing applications…
If that’s the case, you could be missing out on a huge opportunity.
Though traditional printing methods are still used, there’s no doubt that UV printing is the future. And by taking the time to learn more about it, you can determine whether this process is one worth investing in.
So, let’s get started!
What Is UV Printing?
UV printing is a form of digital printing. As the name suggests, the process involves the use of ultraviolet (UV) light. The process was first introduced as a means of quickly drying gel nail polish, but it has since been adopted by other industries.
How Does It Work?
In order to utilize this process, a fabricator needs a UV direct printer, which is equipped with…
- A printhead that contains a UV light source on each end
- Special inks that are formulated to cure quickly when exposed to UV light
Once a material substrate is put into the UV direct printer, the machine operates by creating a chemical reaction caused by the intense UV light. The printhead with the UV light source follows the ink as it’s sprayed out of the jet and distributed on the material.
What Are the Benefits?
There are several benefits of using the UV printing process.
For example…
– Since the ink is dried instantly, it doesn’t have a chance to spread out. As a result, the printed text and/or graphics come out in much sharper detail.
– There is a faster production time with UV printing, as you don’t have to wait for the ink to dry.
– Displays and other products printed on using this process are more damage resistant, so you can save on protective coverings.
– Because the process is so quick, there’s less interaction with the chemicals of the substrate. This means that even sensitive materials such as papyrus can be used.
What Materials Can You Use with UV Printing?
Given the versatility of UV printing, it should come as no surprise to learn that you can use a variety of materials with this process—perhaps even more than what you can use with traditional printing methods.
Some examples of the materials you can use with UV printing include the following:
- Ceramic
- Stone
- Metal
- Leather
- Acrylic
- Glass
- Paper
- Plastic
- Wood
- Canvas
- Vinyl
Ultimately, as long as a material substrate is flat, it can be printed on using this process, which is why UV printing applications are so numerous.
What UV Printing Applications Exist Today?
As mentioned previously, UV printing applications are wide ranging, which is why the process is becoming increasingly popular.
It’s not just sign fabricators who are starting to implement this process but manufacturers of various other products, including…
- Clothing, such as t-shirts and jackets
- Packaging, such as product labels and boxes
- Stationery, such as writing utensils and envelopes
- Toys, such as blocks and miniature cars
- Sports equipment, such as hockey pucks and baseball bats
- Home décor, such as wall art and pillow cases
- Promotional items, such as key chains and water bottles
Further, some experts suggest that as UV printing develops, manufacturers will be able to print text and graphics on even larger items with unique shapes. Down the road, it may not be uncommon to see a car that has been customized using this process.
Why Is Custom ADA Signage One of the Most Impressive UV Printing Applications?
Though there are many UV printing applications to date, one of the most impressive is custom ADA signage.
Why?
Because the production of custom ADA signage is a difficult task in itself. The fact that it can be made quicker, easier, and more cost-effective by using UV printing is something that sign shop owners should take note of.
With UV printing, fabricators can create a 6×8 sign, complete with Braille lettering, in a matter of minutes. This means that even large sign orders can be filled much faster, ensuring that clients are happy with the turnaround time.
Also, as virtually any material substrate can be used with UV printing, fabricators are able to provide clients with a wider variety of sign options. For example, if a client would prefer a more modern look for their ADA signage, a metal or brushed-aluminum acrylic could be used in place of traditional acrylic or laminate.
Further, the fact that UV printing allows text and graphics to be printed directly on a material substrate means that the finished product will be more resistant to damage. This is especially important, as ADA signage that is in poor condition can lead to noncompliance issues for a client.
Takeaway
When it comes down to it, sign shop owners who are still relying on the old methods of printing should take the time to learn about UV printing applications. Doing so will not only provide some insight into how this process is evolving but also shed light on how the fabrication of custom ADA signage in particular can be improved.
Even if you’re interested in UV printing but lack the space or resources to invest in the necessary equipment, you can explore how a partnership with Erie Custom Signs will allow you to reap the benefits of this process without shouldering the expense.
Contact us today to get more information or to obtain a quote on a client’s custom ADA sign order.
