Can High Speed Sublimation Paper be used for printing on plastic?

As a supplier of high-speed sublimation paper, I often get asked a variety of questions from our clients, and one that comes up quite frequently is whether high-speed sublimation paper can be used for printing on plastic. In this blog post, I'll delve into this topic, exploring the possibilities, limitations, and considerations when it comes to using high-speed sublimation paper for plastic printing.

Understanding High-Speed Sublimation Paper

Before we discuss its application on plastic, let's briefly understand what high-speed sublimation paper is. High-speed sublimation paper is designed to work in tandem with sublimation inks. Sublimation is a process where a solid (the ink) turns directly into a gas without passing through the liquid state when heated. This gaseous ink then bonds with the surface of the substrate, creating a permanent, high - quality print.

Our Fast Dry Sublimation Paper is a prime example of high - speed sublimation paper. It has a special coating that allows it to absorb the sublimation ink quickly and evenly. This fast - drying feature is crucial for high - volume printing operations, as it enables rapid production without waiting for the ink to dry on the paper.

The Basics of Printing on Plastic

Plastic is a diverse material with a wide range of types, each having different properties. Some common plastics include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyester. The suitability of high - speed sublimation paper for printing on plastic largely depends on the type of plastic.

For sublimation printing to work effectively, the plastic must be able to bond with the sublimation ink in its gaseous state. Polyester is one of the most suitable plastics for sublimation printing. This is because polyester has a molecular structure that can open up when heated, allowing the gaseous sublimation ink to penetrate and bond within the plastic fibers. Once cooled, the polyester fibers close around the ink, creating a durable and vibrant print.

Using High - Speed Sublimation Paper on Polyester Plastic

When it comes to printing on polyester plastic using high - speed sublimation paper, the process is relatively straightforward. First, the desired image is printed onto the high - speed sublimation paper using a sublimation printer. Our 100gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper or 70gsm Fast Dry Sublimation Paper can be used depending on the specific requirements of the print job.

After printing, the sublimation paper with the printed image is placed in direct contact with the polyester plastic surface. The combination is then put into a heat press. The heat press applies both heat and pressure. The heat causes the sublimation ink on the paper to turn into a gas, which then migrates into the polyester plastic. The pressure ensures an even transfer of the ink across the plastic surface.

The result is a high - quality, full - color print that is resistant to fading, scratching, and washing. This makes it ideal for applications such as printing on polyester plastic sheets used for signage, promotional items, or even custom - made plastic products.

Limitations with Other Types of Plastic

While polyester plastic is well - suited for sublimation printing with high - speed sublimation paper, other types of plastic pose challenges. For example, polyethylene and polypropylene have non - porous and chemically inert surfaces. The sublimation ink in its gaseous state cannot penetrate these surfaces effectively, resulting in poor adhesion and low - quality prints.

PVC can be a bit more complex. Some PVC materials can be treated to make them more receptive to sublimation inks, but this often requires additional pre - treatment steps. Even then, the durability of the print may not be as high as that on polyester.

Considerations for Printing on Plastic

When using high - speed sublimation paper for plastic printing, there are several important considerations. Firstly, the temperature and pressure settings on the heat press are critical. Different types of plastic and sublimation papers may require different temperature and pressure combinations to achieve the best results. It's essential to conduct test prints to determine the optimal settings.

Secondly, the surface of the plastic must be clean and free of any contaminants. Dust, grease, or fingerprints can interfere with the bonding process between the sublimation ink and the plastic, leading to uneven or poor - quality prints.

Finally, the design of the print should take into account the shrinkage or expansion of the plastic during the heat - press process. Some plastics may expand or contract slightly when heated, which can affect the final dimensions of the print.

Conclusion

In conclusion, high - speed sublimation paper can be used for printing on plastic, but its success depends on the type of plastic. Polyester plastic is the most suitable candidate for sublimation printing with high - speed sublimation paper, offering excellent print quality and durability. Other plastics may require special treatments or may not be suitable at all for sublimation printing.

If you're interested in exploring high - speed sublimation paper for your plastic printing needs, we're here to help. Our team of experts can provide you with more information on the best products for your specific application and offer guidance on the printing process. Whether you're a small - scale business looking to create custom plastic products or a large - scale printer in need of high - volume solutions, we have the right high - speed sublimation paper for you.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your printing requirements, please feel free to reach out to us. We're eager to start a conversation about how our high - speed sublimation paper can enhance your plastic printing operations.

References

• Smith, J. (2018). Sublimation Printing: A Comprehensive Guide. Printing Press Publications.
• Johnson, A. (2019). The Science of Plastics and Printing. Plastic Technology Journal.
• Brown, R. (2020). High - Speed Printing Techniques with Sublimation Paper. Printing Industry Review.