UV printing and its applications
UV curable ink has high adhesion on flexible and rigid substrates. We can consider UV printing on: glass, acrylic, canvas, PVC, stickers and others.
As we said, it is possible to print on fabrics for the purpose of promoting new products, services or even a new company. However, it is important to consider the composition of the fabric. Synthetic fabrics are preferred, as the presence of cotton in the composition can cause durability problems.
How does UV ink printing work?
UV inks are cured when exposed to broad-spectrum ultraviolet (UV) light. The curing of the ink depends on the wavelength of the light, the intensity and the duration of exposure. Good quality inks have good coverage with the use of a thin layer of ink, which optimizes curing and uses less energy.
But there is one important point! The print heads can be damaged if the ink cures at the base of the print heads, which can lead to clogged nozzles. For this reason, it is recommended to limit the printer's exposure to broad-spectrum UV light.
Room lighting specification
It is important to limit UV lighting in the area where printhead maintenance takes place, as this is where the printheads are most exposed to room lighting.
Possible light sources for UV printing are:
- Windows and skylights exposed to sunlight.
- Cool white LED.
The recommendation is to use the D50 lamp in the printing environment.
All light sources emit varying amounts of UV (ultraviolet) light. Fluorescent lamps used in homes and offices do not produce a dangerous amount of ultraviolet light, but prolonged exposure can still cure UV paint.
Fluorescent lamps emit a small amount of UV, much less than the amount produced by natural daylight, and are therefore the preferred choice in the printer environment.
Bright LED light should be avoided around the UV printer, as well as sunlight shining on the printer.