Industrial inks have a variety of uses for different factory production stages depending on what is needed. They play a vital role from individual product labeling to large-scale advertising. Understanding the different types of industrial inks and their unique properties is essential for selecting the right ink for specific tasks. Find out what ink you need by looking at these 8 different industrial ink types.
8 Types of Commonly Used Industrial Inks and their Applications
1. Solid Ink
This is an industrial ink type that is waxy when heated and solid when cooled. Solid ink is normally melted and fired through head nozzles and cooled to solidify instantly. They consistently produce vibrant colorful details and long-lasting images. They are also known as a cost-efficient type of industrial ink.
Common applications for solid ink include:
- Billboards
- Outside Banners
- Long Posters
2. UV Ink
This is an ink type that remains liquid until exposed to ultraviolet light which hardens it into a solid film. UV inks are known to produce sharp and bright images that have strong resistance to heat, water, and other chemicals.
Common applications for UV ink include:
- Plastics
- Ceramics
- Glass
- Metals (aluminum, stainless steel, and brass)
3. Oil-based Ink
Made of solvents extracted from mineral or vegetable oil, Oil-based ink dries quicker than water-based ones and it’s used for products made of glass, plastic, metal, and glossy paper.
Common applications for oil-based ink include:
- Marking or Coding
- Package Printing
- Signage
4. Water-based Ink
Considered to be an eco-friendly option, water-based ink uses a solvent, binder, and pigments. It dries through the absorption and penetration of porous substrates. Water-based inks are known to produce softer images used on recyclable materials.
Common applications for water-based ink include:
- Paper
- Cardboard
5. Solvent-based Ink
Unlike water-based inks, solvent-based inks are best used for non-absorbent materials. Solvent inks are waterproof, scratch-resistant, fade-proof, and quick to dry through evaporation.
Common applications for solvent-based ink include:
- Outdoor metal
- Outdoor glass
- Outdoor plastic
6. Dye-based Ink
A dye-based ink is made of tiny particles that dissolve when in water. This type of industrial ink is water resistant and lasts longer but they have less color depth. Dye-based ink is also more costly.
Common applications for dye-based ink include:
- Glossy Paper
- Coated Paper
- Photo Paper
7. Pigment-based Ink
This ink type features larger color particles that do not dissolve in water by creating a durable layer on the substrate which makes them highly durable.
Common applications for pigment-based ink include:
- Normal Paper
- Fine Art Paper
- Matte Paper
8. Latex/Resin Ink
A hybrid type of industrial ink, latex ink uses water along with heat-cured resins and polymer additives that bind it to the material. This type of industrial ink is meant to be used as an alternative to solvent-based inks but also retains its color and durability.
Common applications for latex ink include:
- Backlit Film
- Photographs
- Indoor Displays
- Wallpapers
- Self-adhesive Vinyl
Choosing A Practical Industrial Ink Printer Is Important
It is imperative to choose industrial inks and coders that are versatile and easy to use in order to maintain business efficiency and keep quality in check. You must also carefully consider cost-effectiveness and maintenance or repairs of the printer as it could stall your production line. However, there are currently high-efficiency, low-maintenance, and budget-friendly options in the market. You can also find an industrial equipment supplier that can provide after-sales support so you can maximize your investment.
ALSO READ: Reasons to Use Linx Inkjet Printing Machine in Your Industry
For those looking for top-tier solutions in industrial printing, the Linx printing machines can help increase your output for production. Linx has built its credibility over the years to become one of the most preferred industrial printers in the Philippines due to its ease of use, reliability, and low cost.
Check out a wide range of Linx inkjet printing machines available through Elixir Industrial Equipment, Inc. Inquire now!