Anodised underprint
Our processes in detail
Processes
Anodised underprint
In order to produce an anodised underprinting, the anodised layer has to be broken up again in the anodising process, after which it is called uncompressed (UVD) material. Here the original anodised layer of 18 to 24 µm on average is retained and only the upper anodised layer of approx. 8 to 12 µm is broken up. The process and use of a fabric screen through which the ink is pressed into the open pores of the printing medium, the so-called anodised underprinting, is then applied into these open pores by means of screen printing.
Anodised underprinting is nowadays also possible by means of the digital anodised underprinting process, in which the ink from different ink cartridges is automatically mixed and applied under pressure into the open pores of the print medium using a print head with several thousand nozzles. The ink seeps into the open pores and dries, which means that the pore geometry is decisive for the subsequent print image. Roughly speaking, the digital anodised underprinting process is the same as for an inkjet printer, except that aluminium with open pores is used instead of paper. After drying, the open pores are closed again by a chemical treatment under the influence of high temperature, the so-called compaction or sealing.
If the process is finished, it is called anodised underprinting or digital anodised underprinting which is largely scratch and solvent-resistant. Since the ink is embedded in the anodised layer in the first 8 to 10 µm.
Applications
- Anodised underprinting is often used for type plates, signs in general.
- Anodised underprinting is also frequently used for front panels / rear panels.
Impressions
