Soft ink and hard ink are terms commonly used in UV printing, and they refer to different types of UV curing ink with different characteristics:
1. Soft ink:
- Soft UV inks, also known as flexible inks, are formulated to remain flexible and elastic after curing. This type of ink is designed to adhere to flexible or bendable substrates and move with them without cracking or breaking. It is typically used to print on materials that undergo bending or stretching, such as vinyl, banners, textiles, and certain types of plastics.
- Soft inks are ideal for applications where the printed material needs to maintain its flexibility and durability, such as the production of soft signage, vehicle wraps and other applications that require conformance to curved surfaces.
2. Hard ink:
- Hard UV ink, also known as rigid ink, cures to a hard and durable surface when exposed to UV light. This type of ink is designed for printing on rigid substrates such as glass, metal, acrylic, wood, and ceramic tile.
- Hard inks are characterized by their ability to create a durable and scratch-resistant surface, making them suitable for applications where printed materials need to withstand handling, outdoor exposure and other harsh conditions.
To summarize, the main differences between soft and hard inks are their post-cure characteristics and intended applications. Soft inks remain flexible and elastic, making them suitable for use on flexible or bendable substrates, while hard inks solidify into a rigid surface, making them ideal for rigid materials. The choice between soft and hard inks depends on the specific requirements of the printing application and the characteristics of the substrate used.