What Are The Different Types of Ink Used In Screen Printing?

Screen printing is the process of printing ink on a stencil screen to make a print. This is an all-purpose solution, which offers a wide variety of choices in color selection, print volume, and technology. This is an affordable solution with a low minimum order. The following content also has some reference value for Eagle digitizing.

The thickness of the ink type can be dependent on the type of display used; the color of the screen can also be different according to the available colors. Screen printing also allows you to design with whatever interests you. The kind of ink depends on how it was made, where it was made, and how it was used. Following are the different types of inks used in screen printing.

1. Plastic alcohol ink

Plastisol inks are silicone inks that screen printers use to create bright, vibrant colors and even intricate designs. It has a low coefficient of friction and high durability. Plastisol inks are highly resistant to water and heat, helping to keep prints looking new. It can also withstand sun, rain and washing; thus, it is durable and makes a long-lasting impression.

2. Sublimation ink

Sublimation ink is a dye-based ink that is converted to a gas through the sublimation process. This makes the print durable, water and washable, and able to withstand heat. These inks dry instantly, allowing multiple colors to be applied without smudging. Sublimation ink is also soft to the touch. It also helps in re-dying previously printed fabrics.

3. Discharge ink

Discharge inks are used in a variety of processes to help preserve the natural qualities of fabrics by removing the ink from the dye bath. It is a pigment-based ink that reacts with chemicals to remove the ink from the material. Discharge inks also offer new benefits and features such as chlorine resistance, reduced fire risk and resistance to set stains. Discharged inks are long-lasting and easy to clean, extending the life of your screen prints.

4. Water-based ink

Water-based inks are pigment-based inks that dissolve in water. It is remarkably resistant to humidity and sets indelibly with air and UV rays. Water-based inks are also environmentally friendly and easy to dispose of. Made from synthetic ingredients, it mimics the color of dyes and pigments for exceptional clarity. It gives screen printing a softer feel and a subtle sheen.

5. Vinyl ink film

Vinyl Ink is an adhesive backed vinyl film with a permanent adhesive coating on one side; it also comes in unique colors, high definition and excellent color and will last a long time if cared for properly. Vinyl inks are flexible and will not crack in extreme heat or freezing conditions. Vinyl inks come in a variety of colors. It can be used on a variety of surfaces, including glass doors and windows, as it helps provide privacy. They have excellent adhesion to any clean, smooth surface and produce photos with sharply focused images.

Ink is an integral part of any successful screen printing shop as it is what makes or breaks the quality of the job. Finding the right ink for your custom merchandise is critical to ensuring you have a quality product that your customers love. Make sure you get all the information you need about each ink so you can choose the one that best suits your screen printing needs.