In the world of digital print, the technologies aren’t “one size fits all.” There are significant differences in print output, as a direct result of which technology is used. These include various forms of inkjet, thermography, electrophotography and electrostatic printing, with the two most common technologies being electrophotography and inkjet.
Electrophotography
Currently, electrophotography is the market leader; it utilizes either liquid electro-ink (e-ink) or dry toner. Liquid e-ink prints the smallest dots, thereby generating the highest resolution. Further, “one-shot” technology allows for perfect registration and building up to 16 layers of ink. It features seven-colour expanded gamut printing to achieve colour accuracy on more than 90 per cent of Pantone spot colours, while dry toner electrophotography presses are only capable of producing five-colour expanded gamut. The dry toner particles are also larger, which means the resolution is not as high. Its inline print process also means less registration accuracy for high-resolution detail.
Inkjet
Inkjet production features two main technologies: water-based inkjet and UV-based inkjet. With water-based technology, specially coated papers/films are required at an added expense. When it comes to print quality, water-based technologies don’t print a traditional dot, so print quality can vary. There is also little room for colour control and manipulation, in addition to limited colour options. The inks utilized are primarily dye-based, so colours can quickly fade, even under strong indoor lights. Also, the unavailability of white ink makes it impossible to use clear films and metalized or darker substrates. On the other flip side, UV-based inkjets apply a thick layer of ink that always has a raised look to it. This technology is still new and maturing; its colour control isn’t sophisticated, and isn’t compatible with many types of substrates.
Bottom line?
Digital printing technologies are far from similar, and we’ve chosen to go with what we think is tops. At Lorpon, we use liquid e-ink and an offset digital press, with print quality that’s equal—or even better—than conventional offset and gravure. We print on almost any substrate imaginable to give our clients unmatched versatility. Our amazing colour control and accuracy delivers precision through an entire print run, and on any print run thereafter. Our use of translucent inks means your images take on the texture and look of the substrate, creating a natural finish.
Since seeing is believing, contact our experienced colour and graphic arts team today about getting a free print sample. Just like digital print technologies, not all label manufacturers are created equal. But we’re confident that we have the people and the technology in place to not only meet–but exceed—your digital printing needs.