UV Process Printing - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between UV Printing and Heat set printing?

UV Process Printing uses a special formula of ink that is cured by UV lamps allowing a cold web press to print quality process color on gloss stocks. UV Process printing does not utilize heaters to dry the ink, so it is more energy efficient. The quality of registration is still comparable to cold web printing with colors that are more vibrant and do not offset or smudge.

Do I need to prepare my files differently if my publication is printing in UV Process?

Generally, UV Process Printing is much darker and more vivid in color than printing on cold web press. You may want to consider lightening your photos for this process.

What makes UV Process Printing more environmentally friendly than Heat set printing?

Without the use of solvents, there are no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) released into the atmosphere resulting in a better environment for all of us.

How long has UV Printing been around?

UV Process printing has been around for over 30 years, but only in the last few years has it been available for the application of printing on cold web offset presses. Eagle Web Press was a beta site for testing and proving the UV inks. We started printing with the UV Process in 2008.

What are the advantages for printing with UV Process over cold web printing?

UV Process printing is environmentally friendly, energy efficient, produces rich, vibrant colors without offsetting traditionally associated with cold web presses at a lower cost than heat set printing.

Currently my publication is on uncoated stock, can I keep the same paper but print UV?

UV printing is available on uncoated stocks as well as coated paper stocks.Welcome to contact with us for the quotation .

I have Process color on one plate, the balance of my publication is black ink only. Can I have the UV Process only on the one plate where I have full color?

We also offer combo publications with one web printing with UV process and the balance printing conventional cold web. This is a good way to increase your overall look and quality without a huge jump in costs.

Why is UV Process Printing more energy efficient?

Traditional print technologies (ie heat set) using conventional materials generate high energy costs due to the extensive use of ovens and dryers required to pull water and solvents out of the inks (curing the inks). UV process printing does not require heaters or dryers, using a fraction of the energy needed for traditional heat set.

How does the UV special ink work?

The UV process relies on special inks that have photo initiators in them that when exposed to UV light, spurs a chain reaction that forms a solid, dry continuous ink, yielding bright, vivid colors and deep rich blacks. We are very pleased with the success to date and anticipate an ever growing increase in demand of UV printed products.

Are spot colors available for UV Printing?

Yes, these inks are special order, so allow a minimum of two weeks for ordering prior to production. Pantone colors can be mixed using propcess colors.