What do you think of when you say printing? You likely imagine some sort of graphic printing or relief printing where ink is deposited on a surface aesthetically or to present non-dynamic data. The applications of this printing method are uncountable ranging from business cards, clothing, packaging, and signs.
Another type of printing that is growing rapidly but is yet to be utilized by manufacturers is functional printing also referred to as industrial imaging or printing. Due to technology, functional printing can save labour cost, accelerate production and raise quality.
What is functional printing?
Functional printing is a certain kind of printing in which an image or other material is applied to a product, but not to make the product aesthetically pleasing. This may be the core functional component of the product or a supplementary role that facilitates the working of the product.
So what can be done with functional printing then? Depending on your product and its intended use you can use a functional printing process to create components that are interactive, touchable, durable, customizable, and even electrical.
Practical printing varieties.
The desired look and functionality can be achieved in a number of ways along the broad banner of functional printing.
Primary printing: Primary printing uses such methods as screen printing, inkjet, flexography, and others, similarly to the case with “regular” printing. What makes the difference is the possibility to use functional inks and technologies to enhance chemical reactivity (in case of printed indicators), security or durability (in case of overlays).
Processes that incorporate material deposits other than ink into a product are referred to as additive manufacturing or additive imaging. Lamination, thermal image transfer, and various other techniques can be employed for this purpose.
In the reverse of additive imaging, subtractive imaging involves removing material from a product to achieve the desired shape, design, or functionality.
Coating
For several reasons, specific parts of a product are coated with a particular substance. UV coatings, protective coatings, and Textured Printing coatings are a few examples.
What can you print on?
Industrial printing can be utilized on a wide number of substrates, including.
To guarantee the best quality, longevity, and aesthetics, it’s crucial to collaborate with a skilled, operational printer due to the difficulties of printing on these materials.
Industrial printing presents numerous fascinating opportunities, whether you’re looking to enhance your product or gain a competitive advantage. It might even alter your idea of what printing is capable of.