Can water-based inks be used in commercial or industrial printing settings
Date: Jul 27 2023 From: Star Color
Yes, water-based inks can be used in commercial and industrial printing settings. Water-based inks are a popular choice for various printing applications due to their versatility, eco-friendliness, and ease of use. They are commonly used in industries such as packaging, textiles, labels, and commercial printing.
Here are some reasons why water-based inks are preferred in certain printing settings:
1.Environmental Considerations: Water-based inks are generally considered more environmentally friendly compared to other types of inks, such as solvent-based inks. They have lower levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and emit fewer harmful fumes during the printing process. This makes them a preferred choice in industries with strict environmental regulations.
2.Safety: Water-based inks are non-toxic and pose fewer health risks to workers compared to solvent-based inks, which can contain hazardous chemicals. This makes water-based inks a safer option, particularly in settings where operators have prolonged exposure to the inks.
3.Versatility: Water-based inks can be used on a wide range of substrates, including paper, cardboard, fabric, and some plastics. They can achieve vibrant colors, good color accuracy, and excellent print quality. These inks can be formulated for different printing techniques, such as flexography, gravure, and screen printing.
4.Drying and Curing: Water-based inks generally require less energy and time for drying compared to other inks. They can be air-dried or accelerated with the use of heat or infrared systems. In some cases, additional processes like UV curing or lamination may be employed to enhance durability and water resistance.
Despite their advantages, water-based inks also have some limitations. They may not be suitable for certain applications that require extreme durability, chemical resistance, or water-fastness. In such cases, other ink types like solvent-based, UV-curable, or oil-based inks might be preferred. However, advancements in ink technology have led to the development of water-based inks with improved properties, expanding their use in commercial and industrial printing settings.