UV Inkjet Printer - The Ultimate Guide to Digital Printing

Understanding the Capabilities of a UV Inkjet Printer

UV inkjet printers are exceptionally versatile, enabling the printing of vivid, full-color images directly from digital files. These printers offer remarkable flexibility, allowing operators to change artwork seamlessly. They are particularly effective for product samples, short production runs, and personalized items. Various models of inkjet printers exist, ranging from those with ink cartridge systems to those with bulk ink systems, the latter permitting extended and uninterrupted printing. Due to their expansive print areas, inkjet printers excel at producing large images. They also achieve intricate details, with some models capable of printing up to 1200 dots per inch (dpi).

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Limitations of UV Inkjet Printers

UV inkjet printers are ideally used for flat or slightly curved surfaces. The precision of the print is influenced by the distance between the print head and the substrate. Speed is another consideration, especially for industrial-scale production runs where other printing technologies might be more suitable. Nonetheless, continuous advancements are rapidly reducing these limitations, expanding the potential of UV inkjet printers.

Comparison between a Mimaki digital roll solvent printer and a Mimaki digital flatbed UV printer.

Flatbed printers offer the versatility to print on flexible materials like vinyl and polyester, in addition to various rigid surfaces such as polycarbonate and PVC. They also boast a higher color gamut and the ability to print white ink, making them competitive with traditional screen-printing methods in both color quality and durability.

Sample of subsurface printed digital flatbed parts, backed with white ink.

Main Points of Differentiation

Set-Up Time and Fees

Screen printing requires the setup of individual screens, which is both time-consuming and cost-intensive due to the need for films and tooling. Conversely, digital printing eliminates these setup fees, offering a more streamlined process.

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Quantity

Screen printing becomes economically viable when the setup costs are spread over large quantities, offering faster production rates. On the other hand, digital printing is cost-effective for small runs due to its minimal setup fees.

Color Payoff

Screen printing often offers superior color accuracy, especially for vibrant hues that are challenging for digital presses, which rely on a CMYK process. Although digital printing has made strides in replicating a wide color range, screen printing remains the go-to for metallic and fluorescent colors.

Print Complexity

Digital printing excels in producing complex images and gradients, with consistent pricing regardless of the number of colors used. While screen printing provides crisp lines for simple designs, digital printing handles intricate details and variable data more efficiently.

Adhesion and Durability

Screen printing inks generally adhere better to a wider range of surfaces and are more durable. Although digital inks have improved, they often require special coatings to ensure adhesion and may be less weather-resistant.

Screen Print vs Digital Print Comparison

Screen Print   Digital
Fast Turnaround        X
No Setup Fees             X
Small Quantity                      X
Large Quantity                        X
Critical Color Match                  X
Metallic or Fluorescent                   X
Complex Image or Gradient                           X
Ink Adhesion and Durability                             X
Additional UV Resistance                            X

Overall, screen printing is ideal for high-quantity, high-durability projects with fewer colors, while digital printing suits smaller runs with intricate designs. Consult with your graphics supplier to determine the best method for your project, or utilize a combination of both. For more information or to discuss your printing needs, feel free to reach out via email, web, or call 260-748-0577.

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