By Ray Weiss
Before you dive into a new wide-format printer, you must carefully consider what you want to accomplish and which ink set will help you get there. The cost of ink is a large consideration, but there are also the considerations of durability, adhesion, color brightness and coverage.
There are many varieties of inks available in the digital printing arena, from solvent and eco-solvent to latex, UV, solvent UV, aqueous (both dye and pigment) and dye sublimation. All inks have a few main components in common: a colorant (dye or pigment) and a carrier liquid. One of the defining qualities is the process where the color adheres to the material or substrate.
The goal for this article is to cover the different qualities of each ink, list some of the applications for which they are used, and briefly touch on the pros and cons of each to help you make the best decision for your business.
Solvent Ink
Solvent ink refers to the oil-based solution that holds the pigment and resin and has the advantage of being fade-resistant, waterproof and resistant to abrasion. Solvent ink can print on many different uncoated banners and vinyl, allowing the pigment to bond better. The solvent then evaporates or is flashed off with the heaters on the printer, leaving the pigment behind.
This ink will typically resist fading for five to seven years and is excellent for use with long-term outdoor banners and vinyl. Because volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are present, venting really is a must for this ink.
It does not take a lot of heat for the carrier to evaporate, and because the oil-based solution is so corrosive, a print head with solvent ink is easily clogged. Regular cleanings are mandatory to keep this printer running well. Letting a solvent printer sit around for a few days without maintenance will most likely result in the printer needing a new print head.
Eco-Solvent
The liquid solution in eco-solvent ink comes from ether extracts taken from refined mineral oil. Don’t be misled into thinking this is an ecologically sound ink because of the title. Low- or light-solvent is perhaps a better name, and you will sometimes see those terms used to describe this ink.
Eco-solvent ink can print on many uncoated substrates and takes longer.
This special report, which details the qualities of each type of wide-format ink and the applications for which they are best suited, can be viewed in full, free of charge, by filling out a very short registration form. Once you register, you will not be asked for this information next time we publish a special report as long as you use the same browser.