The printing process refers to any system or operation where printing ink or a combination of ink is applied, cured, or dried to any object, usually on clothes and other hard surfaces. If you’re wondering what types of printing processes are available, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn more about flexography, offset lithography, and etching. They’re all popular methods of producing full-color images, and all commercial printers use them when producing multi-colored projects. If you are looking for printing companies in Dubai, understand these processes before.
Etching:
Etching is one of the oldest printmaking methods, dating back over five hundred years. The process involves the application of acid to a metal plate to create a design. The process is enchanting and can be combined with other painting mediums and techniques to create a unique piece.
Etching works differently than other printmaking methods. First, the artist draws a design onto the metal plate using a needle. The artist then covers the metal plate with acid-resistant wax. The acid then bites into the wax and erodes the bare metal. The time the acid is exposed to the metal determines the etching depth. Longer exposure to acid will result in deeper lines and darker prints.
Flexography:
Flexography is a unique process for printing inks with a uniform thickness. It involves an anilox roll, which has finely engraved cells corresponding to the thickness of the ink. These cells can be inspected under a microscope to determine the exact capacity of the cell. The role is scraped with a doctor blade, which formerly consisted of steel blades but has evolved to polymer or other materials and is available in different types of beveled edges.
Laser printing:
Laser printers are known for their high resolution, fast print speeds, and low cost per page. They work similarly to photocopiers in that a beam of light strikes a cylinder inside the printer. The charged toner in the drum is attracted to the spot where the light hits. When a sheet of paper passes over the drum, the toner is fused to the paper’s surface.
Offset lithography:
In offset lithography, printing plates are clamped inside a cylinder in a press. Two other cylinders hold the blanket and inking rollers. The plate cylinder rotates while the blanket and ink rollers spread the ink and water over the plate. The printing plates contain areas for right reading and non-imaged areas.
