No longer the preserve of large corporations, manufacturing and printing has become something that anyone can try their hand at. It is now possible to design your own merchandise or product in the comfort of your home and then send that design off to a specialist for production.
It might be the case that you’ve bought a bulk order of a particular product which you intend to brand with your own label and then resell. Rather than rely on a sticker or brown box, it is possible to create your own packaging and physically print the name of your product in durable ink. Read on to discover many more uses.
Heavy Duty
Unlike the pens and permanent markers that you can buy from any stationary store, industrial ink offers a far more durable solution. Even a rubber stamping kit isn’t ideal as the ink used is only designed to be printed on porous surfaces. In the event of its application onto something smooth and hard, it will simply rub off.
An industrial ink can be printed on;
- Plastics such as containers and packaging
- Glass jars and bottles
- Metal surfaces
- Glossy paper
- Laminated paper
With the right ink and application method, you can leave a mark on any non-porous surface without fear of it being wiped off or smudging.
This is the exact method used to print brand names on hardware tools such as hammers and screwdrivers.
The Right Application
The most common methods utilised to apply ink to surfaces are;
- Film drying (or air setting) which forms a continuous dry film which can be pigmented. The evaporation of the solvent once applied is what permanently sets the ink.
- Laser marking uses a laser beam to fuse the ink with the recipient objects surface. Another benefit to this is that laser fused coatings feature increase corrosion resistance.
- Multi component coating uses a polymeric protective film that contains and applies 3 coats of ink; a prime coat, intermediate coat and finish coat.
- UV cured inks that will only dry or cue with the exposure to ultraviolet light.
- A thermoplastic ink utilises a change in temperature in its application. As it is heated it melts and then sets as it cools.
Industrial Paint
Depending on your requirements, paint can be utilised just as effectively as inks. As well as the usual surfaces such as paper, cardboard, plastic and rubber, industrial paint can also be applied to;
- Asphalt which is the standard practice for applying road markings
- Ceramics such as crockery and vases
- Concrete and masonry in the construction of buildings
- Fibreglass in the construction of boats
- Glass windows
The possibilities are endless. If you have an idea you would like to trial it is worthwhile getting in touch with a specialist commercial ink, coating and paint company. If you need bespoke blend scheme inks in Leeds then get in touch with one of the suppliers who operate in the area. All of them will be able to tailor a solution to your needs.
You needn’t settle for second best or an inferior product with the advancements that have been made in industrial ink and paint application.
