There are several things required for pad printing. First lets us review the pad printing machine:
A pad printing machine is made up of
three important parts, the pad printing pad, the ink cup, and the plate. In addition
to the machines tooling is also required to hold the part in
place during the printing process.
Other supplies needed include:
- ink,
- solvent,
- hardener for two component inks.
If you are new to pad printing, you will also need a pad printing start up kit. The start up kit has the
necessary supplies to help you properly mix the ink as well as for clean up during printing. The start up kit includes:
- An ink mixing kit,
- gram scale, and
- packing tape (this is for cleaning up the pad printing pad).
There also other equipment that you should consider if you intend to make your plates. This equipment is in addition to a pad printer--this is a laser plate maker. If you are not ready to invest in the equipment, then you should outsource the production of plates. Please note that having an in-house
offers several advantages.
Having an in house plate making provides significant time savings, cost
savings over the long term, and greater flexibility in quickly and
easily making changes to artwork. By having a laser plate maker as part
of your setup, you gain more control over the plate-making process,
enhancing efficiency and the convenience in your pad printing operations.