UV Coating In Packaging Printing
UV coating, also known as ultraviolet coating, is a transparent, lustrous liquid coating applied to printed materials. This coating is a popular printing technique for protecting items that are handled often during delivery.
The coating is a type of coating that is applied to printed material. It is a clear or translucent liquid that dries quickly and leaves a hard, shiny finish. UV coatings are used in packaging printing to protect the ink from fading and to make the package more attractive.
Working with a box manufacturer on a new packaging project can be hard if you don't understand the terms. So this blog should give you a better understanding of this coating.
Its distinctive shine brings out the vibrancy of colors and reflects light in an eye-catching way.
Table Of Contents
What Is UV Coating?
It is a clear liquid that is applied to a paper substrate, and then cured using ultraviolet light for a glossy finished look.
How Did UV Coating Get Its Name?
The UV coating is applied in the form of a liquid. The package is then subjected to UV (ultraviolet) light, which causes it to dry and adhere to the substance it is coating very instantaneously. This coating can be sprayed to the entire surface (a procedure known as "flooding") or to specific regions (a method known as "spot UV coating").
In addition, multiple "sheen" levels are available for UV coating. The most common option is high gloss UV coating, however UV coating may also be used to provide a more muted finish.
UV coating is more durable than aqueous coating, but not nearly as much as direct plastic laminate when compared to other coatings. Because UV coating dries rather fluid, if you need to write on it, print over it, glue it, or put certain types of labels to it for whatever reason, they'll likely not stick unless certain areas are excluded before the UV coating process begins during printing.
What Are The Advantages Of UV Coating?
UV coating has a variety of advantages over other coating types, including:
High-Gloss / High-Shine Finish
With the correct UV coating finish, deep, dark colors appear richer and can almost appear wet. UV coating is a popular choice for consumers who want their package design to stand out because of its vibrant appearance.
Better Clarity
Because of its capacity to make logos and photos richer and more vivid, UV coating is an excellent choice.
More Durable Packaging
If your package will be handled frequently, you'll appreciate the fact that UV coating adds an extra layer of protection due to its somewhat greater thickness. It also resists smearing and marking while maintaining a professional and polished appearance.
Quick-Dry Finish
There is no waiting since the coating dries instantaneously when it comes into contact with UV light. Less waiting time equals less manufacturing time, allowing you to ship and deliver your goods to eager customers sooner. This is especially true for e-commerce packaging like mailers and shippers, as your container and goods are sometimes your clients' sole physical contact point.
Eco-Friendly Coating
UV-coated packing material may be recycled with your other materials, posing no additional environmental risk.
What Are The Disadvantages Of UV Coating?
hile UV Coating clearly has a long list of benefits, that doesn't mean it's right for every project.
Incompatible With Metallic Inks
If you are using Metallic Inks, then the addition of UV Coating can ruin the surface of the packaging. As much as we'd like to combine these two printing processes, it's not recommended.
Lighter Paper Weight
Though UV Coating is quick-drying, if you are using a lighter paper weight, it can cause the paper to curl from the liquid being applied to the surface. So make sure you are within the tolerance ranges.
Does Not Work With Foil Stamping
This is a hot button topic in the industry because it is possible to use Foil Stamping and UV Coating simultaneously. But to get the best results, everything must be carefully designed and applied during the correct stages. So the risk of error goes up when you combine the two processes.
Ink Can Smudge
Due to the high-gloss finish of the coating, it's possible that the ink on the surface will smudge if it is excessively rubbed. While UV Coating does make the packaging surface more resistant to scrapes and scuffs, there is a risk for smudging.
Matte or gloss lamination may be ideal for your individual requirements. UV coating, on the other hand, is frequently one of the most cost-effective and economical ways to add a layer of sturdiness and protection to the completed box design or other printed object. Plus, unlike other forms of coatings or coverings, it won't add weight to the final product.
Think Outside The Box With UV Coating
Certain sorts of coatings help different aspects of your product package design stand out. It's crucial to determine what type of results you want to attain before you start. Aside from UV treatment, there are a few more techniques you may use to produce a strikingly distinct image.
When applied with logos, for example, spot UV treatment adds a depth of dimension. It naturally pulls the user's eye and attention, allowing you to emphasize key places on your package that you want them to see and notice.
Soft-touch coating is another option. This provides the object a velvety, smooth matte finish, which adds a sense of beauty and class.
Learning more about spot UV coating and soft-touch coating, as well as how these two related digital or Offset Printing technologies may help add a touch of refinement to your product packaging.
Create Custom Packaging With UV Coating Today With Bennett!
UV coating is a process that can be used to add an extra layer of protection and professionalism to your finished product. It dries instantly when it comes into contact with UV light, making it a quick process. Additionally, it is an eco-friendly option as it can be recycled with other materials.
There are some disadvantages to using UV coating such as the fact that is not compatible with metallic inks and may cause the paper-weight to increase. However, if you weigh the pros and cons carefully, you'll likely find that UV coating is a great option for your project.
Let Bennett help you get started today! Talk with a sales representative about your needs, and we will get started on a quote.
