HOW DOES PAD PRINTING WORK?
The pad printing process begins with the creation of a printing plate, commonly referred to in the industry as a “cliché.” This plate contains an etched, 1:1 image of the design to be printed. Depending on the application, clichés can be made from short-run photopolymer materials, chemically etched steel for durability, or laser-engraved plates for exceptional precision.
Once the cliché is prepared, it is flooded with specialized pad printing ink. A sharp-edged ink cup is used to scrape away excess ink, leaving only the ink in the etched design area. This ensures clean, precise ink transfer that meets the highest quality standards.
Next, a silicone printing pad, designed for flexibility and accuracy, plays a key role in the process. The pad lifts the ink from the etched cliché and transfers it onto the product's surface. This unique capability allows for high-quality prints on irregular, curved, or textured surfaces, making pad printing an excellent solution for:
- Promotional products such as pens, stress balls, and mugs.
- Medical devices like syringes, surgical instruments, and diagnostic equipment.
- Electronics including buttons, switches, and other small components.
- Industrial parts that require durable and detailed labeling.
Why Choose Pad Printing?
Pad printing is a versatile and precise solution, capable of delivering durable, high-quality designs on a wide variety of materials. These include plastics, metals, ceramics, glass, and more. Whether you're working with curved, textured, or flat surfaces, pad printing ensures exceptional results tailored to your needs.
Learn more about the innovative pad printing technology and how it can transform your projects at Deco Technology Group.