Each ink has unique qualities that provide advantages in some situations while perhaps falling short in others. The kinds of inks used in wide format printing are crucial for conveying the intended message and producing the precise design.
Aqueous Inks
There are two types of these water-based inks, termed Dye and UV. When applied, the dye inks combine with water, and when the water evaporates, the ink is left behind. The ability to offer vivid colors is a benefit. However, these kinds of inks should only be used indoors because they will soon fade in the sun’s UV radiation. Dye inks cannot be utilized for long-term promotional campaigns since they are not waterproof.
UV inks resemble the chalk dust that floats in water. The picture is created as water evaporates, leaving behind tiny, chalk-like dots. They will last longer and are extremely resistant to UV light. However, they lack dye inks’ color brightness.
Solvent Inks
These are typically pigment inks without water that also contain dyes. Instead, they utilize volatile organic molecules, which on some types of surfaces are both very cheap and quite adaptable. Solvent inks offer highly bright color and are waterproof and UV resistant. The key advantages are the ink’s resilience, which keeps up well under all kinds of circumstances.
UV Cured Inks
These are inks that “cure” when they are subjected to powerful UV light. They can be utilized on a variety of surfaces and dry rapidly, which is very desirable to printers. The expense of using this kind of ink makes it a more expensive option for individuals who wish to print in color.
Latex Inks
A novel kind of ink that works similarly to solvent inks but without the poisonous, hazardous ingredients provides several advantages since it can be used on a variety of materials, including vinyl. However, some of the chemicals utilized do not completely protect the environment.
