Water based sublimation printing ink

Types of water based sublimation printing ink

The choice of water-based sublimation ink helps ensure the resultant print matches the intended colors. Print suppliers can get this product in various types, with each having unique attributes.

Taking a closer look at the different types helps buyers understand how they work, whether they require special printing equipment, and their compatibility with specific materials.

• Sublimation inks typically offer high color intensity and are very capable of producing vibrant, near-photographic quality images. Users should note that this category of ink works best on specially coated sublimation paper and requires a sublimation printer.

• Water based sublimation ink comes with better print quality as it uses less water in its formulation. It results in crisp images with a high concentration of color. This ink works best on polyester or polymer-coated surfaces.

• Eco-solvent ink is produced using a water-soluble base rather than solvent chemicals to reduce odor and toxicity. Its formulation makes it ideal for outdoor and industrial signage. The ink produces vivid colors and works well with a wide range of materials.

• Oil-based ink produces opaque results and works well in prints where light and vibrancy are not required. Artists use this ink to print on materials other than paper. Materials suitable for oil-based ink include metal, ceramic, and glass.

• UV ink can be printed on various materials besides paper. Part of its uniqueness comes from the fact that it is cured through exposure to ultraviolet light. This ink stands out for its vibrancy, opacity, and durability, making it ideal for banners and signage.

Designs of water based sublimation printing ink

Sublimation printer ink works on expanding the design possibilities for various products. Some of the designs buyers should consider include:

• Custom sports jerseys: Team sports practice wear offers a blank canvas that can be used to incorporate vibrant designs and team colors. With sublimation, the ink becomes part of the fibers, ensuring durability and stretch accommodation without hampering design.

• Fashion apparel: Water-based sublimation ink gives fashion designers virtually unlimited design possibilities. The ink becomes part of the fabric and allows dynamic patterns, illustrations, and photographic prints that don’t interfere with the material’s texture.

• Home decor: Designers can easily transfer unique designs to home interior items such as pillows, curtains, and wall art. Sublimated designs can add flair to previously simple items.

• Promotional products: Water-based sublimation printing makes it easy to create customized products for promotional use. Businesses can put their logo on items such as mugs, coasters, tote bags, and phone cases.

• Art prints: Artists can produce vivid and brilliant prints on specially coated paper. The prints can be transferred to other surfaces like metal or wood for a premium finish. This allows artists to explore unique materials and expand their creative boundaries.

• Event merchandise: Convention mementos such as t-shirts, lanyards, and badges can make a more cohesive and aesthetic feel with sublimation printing. Event branding can be rendered very vividly on different items.

Specifications/instructions for water based sublimation printing ink

The following specs will help buyers select the right sublimation ink for Epson printer and achieve bright and sharp prints. The quality of the prints heavily relies on using the right materials and following the proper printing process.

Here are some key specifications:

• Color gamut: Sublimation ink has a wider color spectrum, which allows for brighter and more vibrant colors. This is ideal for designs that require a multitude of colors, such as photorealistic images. Buyers need to choose inks with high color accuracy to ensure the desired colors come out in the print.

• Ink viscosity: Sublimation inks usually come in varying viscosity levels. Each tends to affect the printing process and final quality. Low-viscosity ink generally results in finer details and a smoother texture. High-viscosity ink can lead to better opacity and color saturation.

• Ink-to-water ratio: A good-quality water-based sublimation ink should ideally have a balanced ink-to-water ratio. This ensures proper transfer without smudging. Inks with too much water can cause bleeding, while those with little water can lead to plugs and poor transfer.

• Paper compatibility: Not all sublimation paper is compatible with every ink. It is important to check which paper goes with the ink to achieve optimal results. For instance, some paper works well with high-absorption inks, while others need inks with low viscosity.

• Print resolution: The print resolution typically directly affects the sharpness and clarity of an image. Users should check the ink manufacturer's recommendations for the required resolution to maintain color fidelity and image detail.

• Material compatibility: Sublimation ink can be used on different materials depending on the ink type. They range from polyester fabrics to specially coated ceramics and metals. Each material requires a specific approach during the sublimation process.

• Heat press settings: Different inks and materials require specific heat press settings. This regulates the ink transfer process. Always check the ink manufacturer's recommendations for temperature range and pressing time to avoid suboptimal or damaged products.

How to choose water based sublimation printing ink

Considering the following aspects will help buyers stock high-quality ink for sublimation printing that provides vivid colors while protecting the environment.

• Image quality: Water-based inks can provide more outstanding image quality compared to solvent-based inks. They are less prone to clogging during printing, which enhances the resulting sharpness. Print suppliers should look for inks with a high concentration to ensure color accuracy and range.

• Material compatibility: Choose ink types that work best with particular materials. For instance, water-based ink adheres better to polyester materials. When applied to coated metal, it improves the overall quality of metal prints. Users should stock up on ink types compatible with specific materials.

• Sustainability: The formulation of water-based sublimation inks makes them friendlier to the environment than solvent-based inks. Their lower VOC content ensures they pollute the air less, and it is easier to recycle water-based inks. Buyers looking for eco-friendly options should prioritize them.

• Heat settings: Users should consider the heat requirements necessary when using specific ink types. Low-heat inks are better for delicate fabrics where excessive heat might cause damage. Printing suppliers should stock inks with lower heat settings to ensure flexibility during production.

• Durability: Water-based inks have developed in quality, which means many modern formulations boast outstanding durability. They can resist washing and fading effectively, especially when adhered to synthetic fabrics. Inspect durability ratings for the ink used with end products expected to undergo heavy use.

• Ink transfer: Stock inks with great ability to transfer colors and designs from paper to substrate. The quality of the transfer significantly impacts the print's final appearance. Select inks developed for optimal transfer on various coated surfaces for clean and sharp results.

Q&A

What is the difference between water-based and solvent-based sublimation inks?

Packaging printers use water-based sublimation inks for printing that release low VOC levels. This makes them better suited for eco-friendly printing practices. On the contrary, solvent-based inks release higher VOC levels, making the work environment smell bad.

What kind of printer do I need for water-based sublimation ink?

Customarily, universal ink printers are compatible with all types of inks, including water-based sublimation ink. Those who just bought a printer may want to check their printer manuals. It usually contains information about the printer's ink compatibility.

What materials can water-based sublimation inks be used on?

Sublimation ink for heat transfer is ideal for polyester fabrics and specially coated items such as ceramics, metals, and plastics. The ink works by bonding to the polymers in these surfaces, resulting in bright and durable images.

What are the environmental benefits of using water-based sublimation inks?

Water-based inks are less toxic than solvent-based inks. They contain fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which reduce air pollution and health hazards for workers. This makes them a safer option for printing facilities and eco-conscious customers.

Can water-based sublimation inks be used outdoors?

Water-based sublimation inks may be less weather-resistant than eco-solvent or UV inks. Nonetheless, they can be used outdoors when applied to items with protective coatings, such as metal signs or outdoor fabrics. They are better suited for indoor use or covered outdoor spaces.