Features, Pros & Cons, Applications of UV Ink

UV ink is a type of oil-based ink used in UV printing, which is environmentally friendly and popular in the market. It quickly occupies the market for three main reasons:

1) it cures instantly;

2) it does not contain volatile solvents;

3) it is easy and convenient to use.

As a key consumable in UV printing, the quality of UV ink can significantly influence the printing performance. The following detailed introduction to UV ink will help you choose the right UV ink for your printing business.

The Composition

UV ink is a type of oil-based ink that undergoes a cross-linked aggregation reaction and cures quickly under UV light. It is primarily composed of prefabricated optical polymers, photocure monomers, optical clustering agents, organic pigments, and additives. Among these components, the optical clustering agent is the most crucial part, marking the beginning of the optical aggregation process.

The Characteristics

1. Instant curing and high production efficiency.

2. UV ink does not contain volatile solvents, thus it will not damage the printing substrates or pollute the environment or human body.

3. The concentration of UV ink is stable and will not spread unevenly.

4. UV ink has no unpleasant odor.

5. The heat from UV light will not damage printed substrates that are sensitive to high temperatures.

Types of UV Ink: Classifications & Features

Just as each type of UV printer is suitable for different UV printing requirements, understanding the types of UV ink is the first step in helping you choose the best UV ink for various printing scenarios, industries, and materials. Generally, there are three types of UV ink: hard ink, soft ink, and flexible ink.

Hard ink: Mainly used for printing on hard materials such as wood, metal, stone, and glass. This type of ink is the most commonly used.

Soft ink: Mainly used for printing on soft products, such as soft phone cases and PVC materials. The characteristic of this ink is that it can be folded to a certain degree without cracking.

Flexible ink: Mainly used for printing on leather products. This type of ink allows the product to be folded and lifted without causing breakage.

UV Ink: Pros and Cons

Advantages of UV Ink

1. UV ink does not contain any volatile components, avoiding the spreading powder problem.

2. Using high-quality UV ink is beneficial for improving the performance of the final print result.

3. The quick-drying ability of UV ink greatly increases work efficiency.

4. UV ink does not require additional drying equipment, saving production space.

5. UV ink is environmentally friendly. Additionally, UV light does not consume too much electrical energy.

Disadvantages of UV Ink

The special internal structure of UV ink that allows it to dry quickly under UV light makes it expensive.