The new UV ink from Sign-Tronic, launched at the Sign Africa Durban expo, has been formulated to print on untreated natural fabrics as well as standard fabrics with no post-treatment required. The ink was demonstrated on the swissQprint Nyala 2, and visitors could see printed samples on uncoated polyester, coated polyester, linen, cotton, silk, bull denim cushions and more on the stand.
A challenge for printers has been trying to achieve the same results as traditional time consuming processes of printing with UV on natural fabrics. The new formulation of UV ink, developed and patented by Sign-Tronic owner Adrian Wolman overcomes this challenge.
Wolman used his extensive knowledge of swissQprint Nyala 2 flatbed printers to develop the ink. He also tapped into his heritage of garment manufacturing passed down from his mother Berenice, and grandfather Louie, who manufactured bespoke garments and wedding gowns in Adderley street in Cape Town called Louie et cie.
Absorbing static and securing the fabric in place through the print process is a major benefit of the UV ink combined with the unique roll to roll swissQprint system that has a carbon brush tensioning roller. This specific roller absorbs static and secures the warp and the weft of the fabric – ensuring stability.
Further benefits of the UV ink is that it produces no cracks due to it’s flexibility, there are no added process costs and it can be used on the swissQprint and other UV printers.
SIGN-TRONIC (+27 21) 510 8332 www.sign-tronic.co.za
