What is hydrographic process?
Water transfer printing (also known as hydrographics, immersion printing, camo dipping, hydro imaging and cubic printing) is a surface decorating process with which elaborate graphics – such as wood grain, carbon fiber, camouflage, geometrical designs, etc. – are applied to a 3D product surface.
How long does hydrographic film last?
five to fifteen years
A typical lifespan for the hydrographic film adhered to an item is five to fifteen years. For many types of items that you’d want to hydro dip, this would cover its full lifespan. Items that aren’t handled much, such as a vase or figurine, may have a much longer lifespan.
Can you use a regular printer for hydrographic film?
You will want to AVOID the Expression line of printers and any other printers using the dye-based Claria inks. The HP OfficeJet Pro printer series also uses pigment-based inks, along with the DesignJet Z6 and Z9+ printers. In addition, any of the latex printers from HP will work very well for hydrographics.
What is Hydrographic film used for?
Hydro dipping is the process of decorating an item with complicated or precise patterns by dipping it into water with a film floating on top. The graphic or pattern on the film adheres to the part perfectly and completely, no matter its shape.
What is Hydrographic activator?
Activator is the key element in the hydro dipping process. It is a chemical so integral to the process of hydro dipping that it acts as a key difference between successful and unsuccessful dips. The activator is applied to the film to make it dissolve and turn the film ink into liquid.
How is Hydrographic film made?
The film is floated over the top of the tank and then a liquid activator spray is applied. The activator dissolves the PVA backing on the film and it re-wets the ink on top of the PVA. The part is dipped into the tank transferring the wet ink to the part. The PVA is then washed form the part leaving only the ink.
What is Hydrographic film made of?
polyvinyl alcohol
Hydrographic films are made from polyvinyl alcohol. The film is carefully placed on the water surface of a dipping tank. Once the film is hydrated, you add the activator. This liquefies the ink on the surface of the water.
What printers can print hydrographic film?
TSAUTOP BLANK HYDROGRAPHIC FILM can be printed by standard inkjet printer with pigment-based ink, such as EPSON, CANON, HP.
Does hydro dip wear off?
Hydro dipping, also known as Immersion Printing, is a process of transferring colors and patterns onto various materials. The resulting look is 360-degrees of awesome. But does hydro dipping wear off? As long as the base paint remains stable, the hydrographics will remain intact.
