As the industry continues to demand the latest and greatest technology, UV inks have steadily increased in popularity. While traditional solvent-based inks absorb into substrates and require dryers, UV inks have eliminated that need and offer increased efficiencies throughout manufacturing. What distinguishes UV from traditional inks is the curing process in which special inks are used and then cured by ultraviolet light located at the print head. Here are three reasons why you should be opting for UV inks:
Environmentally friendly
Unlike conventional inks, UV inks do not produce VOC emissions as they do not contain solvents that evaporate. Volatile organic compounds or VOCs are chemicals that can create air pollution, smog, and are said to have a significant impact on global warming. As such, UV inks do not require permitting or reporting.
Higher quality
Due to the curing process, UV inks do not penetrate into substrates but rather remain on top of the sheet which allows the print to retain greater densities and vivid coloring. Cured UV inks also provide an additional layer of durability in which they are rub-resistant with no marking or offsetting. Another benefit is good light fastness, in that UV inks can catch and reflect light which results in increased readability.
Cost effective
UV inks dry instantly which means products are cured and ready to be finished immediately after printing, this allows printers to significantly shorten manufacturing time. Print vendors can also reduce capital and maintenance costs by eliminating ovens, chillers, and oxidizers which in turn saves 100M therms per year of natural gas expenses. In addition, UV inks have a shorter paper path which saves 25 feet of paper waste on every signature, savings that are passed down to the customer.
By using UV inks, you can achieve higher efficiency, superior print quality, and a more sustainable production process. As the industry continues to evolve, adopting UV technology not only enhances the final product but also reduces environmental impact and operational costs. With benefits ranging from instant drying and vibrant colors to significant energy savings, UV inks are the smart choice for modern printing.