Primer: A Guide to Wide-Format Printing Inks
Wide-format printing inks have seen innovations over the last several years, from expanded and more vibrant color gamut to quick and instant-dry properties. Whether it’s eco-solvent, aqueous, resin/latex, UV, or UVgel, there’s the correct ink for any use, with some ink platforms rising above others for specific applications. Print service providers (PSPs) need to understand the advantages and limitations of each to ensure they choose the right technology for the products they’re producing.
Solvent Inks
Eco-solvent inks, also known as solvent inks, are widely used worldwide, says Timothy Mitchell, senior product development director at S-One Holdings. He labels them as very reliable and successful with a good color gamut.
They work well on most PSPs’ materials, including adhesive vinyl and banners. Adam Shafran, president at STS Inks, adds that solvent inks are ideal for outdoor applications due to their durability and water resistance. However, he says graphics may not print as vibrantly as other ink types.
While some solvent inks can have an odor if not adequately ventilated, refinements in the ink technology make it much less hazardous, with no issues regarding nickel, HAPs (hazardous air pollutants), or harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds), Mitchell says. “Almost all modern eco-solvent, at this point, is GREENGUARD certified, so it meets traditional industry expectations for operator safety and installations.”
One qualm with solvent inks is that they don’t like paper-based products, like paper-based wallcoverings or photo paper. However, with a special coating, solvent inks become compatible with paper. Mitchell notes they also don’t do well with fabrics unless they are heavily coated. If laminating is necessary, there’s an outgas period, so factoring that time in is essential. It’s also not the most scratch-resistant of the ink bunch, falling behind resin/latex and UV.
Epson, Roland, and Mimaki are three big players in the eco-solvent category, using Piezo print heads, which last longer than thermal print heads.
Best uses: Outdoor signage, adhesive vinyl, vehicle wraps, banners, and most films.
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