How are Banners Printed?

The latest and greatest in banner printing is a technology that makes use of UV print. This is a great, quick drying process that results in vivid colors, crisp lines, and a beautiful overall product. One might wonder exactly how vinyl banners are printed this way and why the final product is so attractive and long lasting.

UV Ink Dries Fast and Remains Permanent

UV ink dries very quickly because it truly does not have to dry at all. It is actually a collection of solids that remain in liquid form until they are exposed to ultraviolet light. At this point, the UV print ink is cured, not dried to the vinyl surface of the banner signs. The result is a bright, bold image that lasts longer than traditional liquid ink.

How Is UV Ink Applied?

A curing unit is used to apply this special ink, and it is enclosed to protect workers’ eyes from the dangerous ultraviolet rays. The banner is adorned carefully with the colors desired in the images and fonts chosen, and when it is finished, it is placed on a conveyor belt that has been specially treated to be resistant to ultraviolet rays. When the banner is fed into the machine, it is exposed to these UV rays that almost instantly cure the ink to the vinyl. It is important to be very careful when using these machines because the UV rays are harmful, and the machines become quite hot.

Non Traditional Printing Machines

One of the advantages to UV print technology is that they can be used for three-dimensional objects as well as two-dimensional ones. With the use of a machine designed for the job, tables, three-dimensional signs, and most anything that will fit into the opening can be decorated with your message, logo or other images, and led through the machine to be cured using ultra violet light.

Disadvantages of UV Print Technology

The process of curing UV ink has very few disadvantages to the consumer; the results are consistently bold and crisp, durable and lasting. However, there are certain precautions that must be taken by manufacturers who are using UV print technology for banner signs. Ultraviolet bulbs must be closely monitored, and generally must be change after every 1,000 to 3,000 hours of use. Additionally, UV ink can give off an overwhelming odor when being cured, so proper ventilation must be available.