Theory of Largeformat Printing

Large format print is generally considered the printing process for items above 18inch (457mm) up to 100inch(2540mm) in size. While large format print processes can be used for anything with a single dimension of up-to 100inch the same processes can be used on items much smaller. The processes below can be cost effective for short runs of small items however for larger runs such as vinyl stickers as an example will become much more cost effective using more suitable machinery. Printing above 100inch in size is generally considered Grand Format Printing or Super-Wide Format Printing which we will cover on another blog post soon.

The print processes and materials used will change dependant on the application, however, large format printing is generally used for PVC Banners, exhibition printing, posters, vehicle graphics & signage. Large Format Printing can be produced on various materials that can be roll-fed into the machine and cut to size afterwards. Rigid materials such as Foam Board (Foamex), Composite Materials (Dibond) and deep thickness PVC can be printed directly using a large format flatbed printer.

How do large format printers work?

Water Based

Inkjet printers using a water-based ink system. While classed as water-based some inks can use a substitute fluid designed for that printer. Often water-based large format printers have a thermal pad to dry the print as it exits the machine expediting the curing time to enable continuous printing however some materials and applications may require additional curing time. There are two types of water-based inks currently used, UV based and Dye based. UV inks are generally duller in appearance than their Dye counterparts however can withstand direct sunlight much longer without fading. Dye based inks are brighter however can fade in direct sunlight. Water based inks can only be used on material coated to accept and hold the ink.

Solvent Based

Inkjet printers that use a petroleum or petroleum-substitute such as Acetone ink system. Recently “Eco-Solvent” inks have been developed that use a Glycol or Glycol Ether carrier based system. Glycol based ink carriers require additional curing times compared to petroleum based systems. EcoSolvent based printers can be used in an office environment with petroleum based inks often requiring additional ventilation. Once fully cured the prints are waterproof and can be used on uncoated vinyl and rigid materials such as PVC and Foam board. Often found to be more durable than water-based processes, solvent based inks soften the surface allowing the payment to mechanically attach to the material at a microscopic level. This method is often used on vehicle wrapping as the graphics can be stretched as the ink will stretch with the material where needed.

UV Process

This print process uses UV (UltraViolet) curable ink systems. The inks in this process are cured using UV lamps and are cured almost immediately. Once cured the inks are fully waterproof, embossed and vibrant. The UV based inks when fully cured are extremely durable and can reduce the requirement of laminating for protection.

The UV process allows almost any substrate to be used such as ceramics, glass, polycarbonate, acrylic, foam board, aluminium, stainless steel and more. Smooth white surfaces such as Foam board, Coated Dibond and PVC work best for vivid images.

What materials can be used?

The substrate used for printing can heavily depend on the application and process used for print. The most versatile process using UV curable inks can print onto the broadest range of materials, such as but not limited to;

Metals (Aluminium, Stainless Steel etc)
Composite Materials (Dibond)
Woods (MDF, Plywood etc.
Foam Board & Foam Filled Board (Foamex & Kappa)
PVC
Vinyl’s

What should I use Large Format printing for?

Whether you are looking for a large exhibition display or just a poster, Large Format Printing is used across a multitude of scenarios and is used anywhere you see printed items larger than 18inches in size. Our team at Print101naija can advise the best solution for your requirements advising the best process and materials for you. Give our team a call or whatsapp us on 09075353449