In the production system of flexo printing machine, water-based ink and UV ink are the two mainstream choices. Their cost differences and applicable scenarios directly affect the production decisions of printing companies. As the core tool of flexographic printing, the flexo printing machine transfers the characteristics of ink through the anilox roller, so that the difference between the two inks is further amplified during the operation of the equipment.
The drying system of the flexo printing machine determines the applicability of the ink. Water-based ink needs to be Water-based ink needs to be equipped with an efficient, which is suitable for printing absorbent materials such as paper and cardboard. If used for film or non-absorbent materials, it may take multiple printings to achieve the ideal effect. UV ink relies on the built-in ultraviolet curing module of the flexo printing machine, which can be cured instantly, allowing the equipment to run at high speed on non-absorbent materials such as plastic film and metal foil, reducing downtime and fully releasing the high-speed potential of the equipment. However, the initial investment of UV equipment is large, and the maintenance cost of lamps needs to be considered in the long term.
When flexo printing press are paired with water-based inks, the mild characteristics of the water-based formula make them suitable for absorbent materials such as food packaging and paper products, and they meet strict environmental standards. After curing, UV inks have high hardness and scratch resistance, are good at non-absorbent materials (such as plastics and metal foils), and can achieve special effects such as high gloss and 3D textures. They are mostly used in high value-added products such as labels.
The choice of ink for flexographic printing machine needs to be combined with the equipment configuration. If you pursue low cost and environmental compliance, choose water-based inks; if you pursue high-speed production, complex processes and special effects, you need to upgrade the UV curing function.The key to choosing these two inks is to accurately match production needs. Both need to be optimized according to equipment performance to maximize the flexibility and benefits of flexo printing.
