6 Types Of Large Format Ink Outlined For large format printers, also known as wife format printers, the type of ink used is referred to as large format ink. Used for banners, billboards, adhesive decals and all types of signage, these particular printers are helpful. For printing on metal, glass and other diverse surfaces, an ink that can print on vinyl, laminate and non laminated surfaces is required. The ink required for such printing will depend on the adhesion properties of the media surface. There are six major types of large format inks: dye sublimation, pigment, solvent, eco solvent, latex and also UV curable. Every type of ink will have their own specific properties. Dye Sublimation Ink Dye sublimation ink is considered the most common kind of large format ink. It happens to be water based and can be used on laminated surfaces. This form of ink is transferred to the print media, then solidified by way of heat. As a general precaution, keep dye sublimation prints away from ultraviolet light, as the color can fade easily. Pigment Ink Pigment ink is an alternative to dye sublimation ink and is made of solid particles suspended in a liquid. The pigment ink is more water resistant because of this property and is resistant to fading. Nevertheless, since the ink is made up of solid particles, it can dry out and create blockages within the print head, which need to be cleaned to ensure high quality printing. Solvent Ink For many types of media, this solvent ink lasts over five years it is that resilient. It is commonly used for outdoor uses such as billboards and vehicle graphics. The more economic solution would be the solvent ink however, take note it does emit a higher concentration of organic compounds that are considered to be volatile. Special ventilation requirements are proposed due to this VOC count so work can be done safely when using the solvent ink. Eco Solvent Ink Eco solvent ink is a lightweight version of solvent ink with a shorter lifespan. The main benefit of eco solvent ink will be a lower VOC concentration, which allows the ink to be used indoors. Ventilation may still be necessary, but not to the same level as solvent ink. Latex Ink Mostly polymer and water, the latex ink sticks to print media when using heat. Since the latex ink doesn't emit fumes that are toxic, ventilation isn't required. Considered to be versatile and suitable for indoor use, this type of ink can be used for some outdoor applications. Since adherence to media relies on heat, printers need to include pre-print and post-print heating systems. UV Curable Ink DigitalSignTech.net
Page 1
6 Types Of Large Format Ink Outlined
UV curable ink is a type of ink that is promptly dried or “cured†when exposed to UV light. When the hazards associated with UV light are properly controlled in the workplace, UV curable inks are proven to increase printing efficiency and quality. Bulk Ink Systems A bulk ink system can be installed on a large format printer to continually supply the printer with ink. The system normally consists of bottles, tubes, cartridges and a variety of other components. The large format ink is held in bottles which is transferred to the cartridges using the tubes. Ink is delivered to the media from the cartridges. For bulk ink systems, ink can be bought in large quantities, for example five liters, and poured into the storage bottles if needed. Using the bulk ink systems are not needed for large format printers because ink cartridges can still be used. In any event, and no matter what type of ink is used, attention to the ink level is necessary to ensure efficient printing operations and quality prints. Be sure that you're printing with the correct large format ink for your job with the assistance of the substantial selection at Digital Sign Technologies. For even more particulars on Digital Sign Technologies, see them at their website, digitalsigntech.net.
Document Tags: seiko ink, large format ink http://www.digitalsigntech.net/
DigitalSignTech.net
Page 2