Did you know that plastic cards are now an integral part of almost any business? Whether your company uses plastic cards for loyalty programs, security access, for gift cards or anything else, they are an important part of your business.
If you’ve ever sourced the printing service for your organization’s plastic cards, then you probably are familiar with the vast range in card printing methods available.
To help you learn more about the type of card and printing method that will meet the diverse needs of your organization, we’ve provided a brief overview of each printing method.
• Lithography: One of the most common methods use by plastic card printers, this method uses the principle that oil and water don’t mix as the basis of the printing process. A metal plate is treated so that the image area attracts oil based inks and the wet non-image areas repeal the oil based inks. In lithography, the printing surface is flat with both image and non-image areas at the same level on the printing plate.
Lithography uses a traditional printing press and traditional plate printing methods; sheets of PVC are printed and then the finished cards are cut from the sheet using a die cut method. The finished product quality can be very tightly controlled and spot color matching is possible.
• Screen Printing: One of the oldest forms of printing, screen printing involves forcing ink through a mesh stencil. The stencil openings determine the form and dimensions of the imprint that is produced. Screen printing is often used by plastic card printers for smaller runs.
• Dye Sublimation: Another form or printing common with plastic card printers is dye sublimation where the print head of the card printer prints directly onto the card material through the printer ribbon. Many customers like this printing method as it is efficient and inexpensive and well suited for security badges, gift cards, loyalty program cards and more.
Plasticcardonline.com, is a company that continually invests in new technology. This focus on new technology has helped them secure a reputation as one of the leading plastic card printers. If you’re looking for a plastic card printers with the latest, most innovative technology, a commitment to customer service, and the highest quality, most cost effective products, then give Plasticcardonline.com, a call today!