Steba offers pad printing service on packaging.
This is a very precise and effective printing procedure that allows text, images or logos to be reproduced faithfully and in a minimum of time on different types of packaging.
In particular, this technique is suitable for small or irregular, concave or convex surfaces.
Packaging plays a very important role in consumers‘ purchasing choices.
Indeed, well-designed packaging can attract more of a consumer’s attention through emotional involvement.
However, in order for the pack to be an effective marketing tool, its graphic design-so the images, text, and colors-must be in line with the product: learn more about these and other aspects in our article on personalized packaging.
This can be achieved through theuse of specificprinting techniques including, for example, pad printing itself.
Let us see together, below, how this process works.
Pad printing on pack: how does it work and what is it used for?
Pad printing gives the ability, through the use of flexible pads usually made of silicone, to transfer ink onto the object to be printed, almost completely nullifying the decorative limitations imposed by the latter.
In other words, this operation is based on the principle of a pad that, once pressed on an engraved and inked plate, can reproduce the subject on the desired surface by adapting to it.
This technique makes it possible to print withexcellent definition. It also ensures a sharp result even with very thin strokes.
For more insights, read our article on how to customize cosmetic packaging with Steba.
Plate, pad, object: printing is precise and versatile
Pad printing is a precise and versatile printing process that uses a succession of steps, namely:
- an image is engraved on a metal plate, and the plate is mounted on the pad printing machine
- the outside of the plate is first inked and later cleaned up
- the silicone pad is pressed against the plate so as to collect the ink
- the pad is then moved over the object and pressed against it so that it fits snugly against the surface
- the pad begins to rise, leaving ink on the cover of the object
If you are also interested in learning about other ways to decorate packaging, read our article on screen printing and on all of Steba’s other Steba’s customization services.
Pad printing on glass, plastic and metal
Pad printing is a specific procedure for printing on glass, plastic, and metal objects.
Let us look in detail at the methods of pad printing on the three surfaces:
- glass: allows any kind of customization in terms of aesthetics to be imprinted on this material, thus writing, drawings, logos and decorations
- plastics: in the case of plastics with low surface tension, it may be necessary to pre-treat the printing substrate with an adhesion activator. It is best to have a sample of the materials in order to do some testing
- metal: in this case, good adhesion on the substrate depends on the ink that is used
The advantages of pad printing technique on pack
The pad printing technique on packaging offers many advantages.
● It allows you to imprint multiple colors “wet-on-wet” quickly.
Specifically, you switch from one ink to another without having to wait hours for drying. This is a very important aspect since it allows many more items to be printed than screen printing.
● Ensures precision even on irregular and curved surfaces. It also provides versatility as it adapts to different materials, shapes and sizes. The quality of pad printing is very sharp and accurate even in fine strokes.
● This process does not use UV colors, which is a strength when the external printing parts have specific characteristics. In particular, reference is made to those cases where the glass to be printed has previously been treated with release agents. Even in such situations, pad printing is able to guarantee an excellent result in adhesion.
Ultimately, pad printing is a simple and precise process that gives the ability to reproduce text, images or logos quickly and on multiple surfaces at a low cost.
For more information you can contact us directly: contact us and together we find the ideal solution for your needs.
