What Are the Different Types of Printing?
Read time: 5 minutes | Author: PRI Graphics | Posted: July 23rd, 2023
Exploring the Diverse World of Printing: An In-Depth Look at Modern Printing Techniques
In an increasingly digitized world, the art and science of printing continue to evolve, adapting to the latest advancements in technology while retaining traditional techniques. Phoenix-based PRI Graphics & Signs, a leading provider in this space, brings to its clientele an extensive range of printing services, tailored to their diverse needs.
This article delves into the various types of printing processes that commercial printers like, PRI Graphics, offers to it’s customers. We will touch upon Digital Small Format Printing, Large Format Printing, Precision Cutting, and CAD Printing, detailing their applications, advancements, and current trends.
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Unfolding the Layers of Digital Printing
Digital small format printing is the modern way of reproducing a digital image, either in grayscale or full-color. High-volume digital printing is typically carried out using advanced inkjet printers. A defining aspect of digital printing is its ability to translate computer-based images onto a myriad of materials, from different types of paper to vinyl, film, and even fabric. See our post on Lithography vs Digital Printing.
The digital nature of the image offers immense flexibility. You can print numerous identical copies of the same image or modify the image output as per requirements. Thanks to evolving technology, digital printing is increasingly efficient and precise. Modern printers spray the ink onto the surface of the material rather than it being absorbed, resulting in sharper images and faster drying times.
Offset Printing: A Time-Honored Method
A traditional yet powerful method, offset printing, also known as Planographic or Lithographic printing, uses a unique process. Rather than transferring the image directly onto the material, it employs a set of usually aluminum plates. These plates are inked, and the image is transferred onto a rubber blanket before being rolled onto the printing paper.
The durability and longevity of these image plates ensure consistently high-quality outputs, even after significant usage. For large-scale commercial printing, offset printing remains a reliable choice. To understand more about how it compares to digital printing, you can explore our dedicated blog post on Digital vs. Offset Printing.
Large Format Printing: Embracing the Big Picture
Large format printing, alternatively known as wide format printing, addresses jobs that are too substantial for conventional printing presses. With specialty printing equipment, PRI Graphics can manage larger-than-normal printing jobs, even up to 100 inches wide.
From wall coverings, extensive window graphics, backlit graphics, vehicle graphics to large banners, posters, and promotional displays at trade shows, large format printing accommodates a wide range of uses. With advances in technology, large format printing now offers more exceptional detail and color accuracy.
Navigating the Versatile World of Flatbed Printing
Digital flatbed printing, also known direct-to-substrate printing, is an incredibly flexible process. It employs a UV ink curing process that enables full-color printing on almost any flat surfaced material.
Flatbed printing equipment at PRI Graphics comes with adjustable printing beds, allowing us to print high-quality display graphics on diverse substrates of varying thicknesses. From coroplast, foam core, canvas, plywood, MDF, metal, and plexiglass to paper, plastic, and more, the versatility of flatbed printing is vast, meeting the needs of various industries.
CAD Printing: Harnessing Technology for Precision
CAD, or Computer Aided Design, is a vital tool for technology companies, manufacturing designers, artists, draftsmen, architects, and engineers. Modern CAD software provides advanced rendering capabilities for designing and creating highly accurate 2-D and 3-D models, conceptual renderings, drawings, and technical illustrations.
By facilitating analysis, modification, and perfecting of designs, CAD software aids in improving product quality even before actual creation. At PRI Graphics, we leverage the latest CAD printing and plotting technology to cater to these industries, offering precise and efficient results.
About PRI Graphics
Based in Phoenix, PRI Graphics & Signs specializes in diverse printing services including Digital, CAD, Flatbed, Inkjet, and Large Format printing, covering roll-to-roll and dye sublimation. We also offer small format digital printing for items like brochures, flyers, business stationery, and various promotional materials.
To learn more about our services or to get in touch with us, please call us toll-free at 1-877-409-8889 or send us an email. For a deeper dive into printing techniques, we recommend this informative Wikipedia page on printing.
We also offer in-house graphic design services and can be reached locally at 602-393-3131. We’re always ready to help bring your creative visions to life.
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