The modern industry of printmaking has invented and produced a wide variety of printing inks that can be used for various printing processes. One special kind of ink is solid ink, which comes as a waxy stick or block and is melted before use. Solid ink, however, is also an umbrella term for all inks that are solid at room temperature, including ribbon ink and sublimation ink. The following article will explain everything you need to know about the wax solid ink.
Definition: Solid ink
Solid ink is, besides the umbrella term for all inks that are solid at room temperature, also a special kind of ink. It is also called hot melt ink and made from a resin-based polymer with a waxy consistency. Before printing the liquid onto the medium, a specific type of printer must heat and melt the ink blocks or sticks.
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Applications and limitations
Solid ink is widely used by larger printing manufacturers because of its vibrant colors and long-lasting, shiny finish. It can be used to print on almost every paper, except for specialty papers like card stock or photo paper. Solid ink can even print on fabric, although other methods, such as screen printing, are often preferred.
The sole significant drawbacks of solid ink printers are their low melting point and the requirement for a flat surface, because otherwise the ink will run down the medium. The latter one indicates that lamination is not possible for solid ink printed papers. Just the same, a fabric printed with this type of ink should not be ironed or washed in hot water.
Advantages and disadvantages
Solid inks have many advantages and disadvantages to consider before deciding on using it.
Advantages
- Glossy surface due to wax-like material
- Vibrant in color
- No waste production because solid ink does not need any packaging or cartridges
- No expiration date or dry-out, as the ink is solid at room temperature and can be stored indefinitely
- Rather cheap ink → gets cheaper the more you print
Disadvantages
- Longer wait as the printer has to heat the ink first
- Expensive machine
- A cool-down is needed after each printing process before the printer can be moved
- Recommended staying in standby, so a bit of ink stays liquid, which costs energy
- Cannot print on photo paper or other specialty papers
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FAQs
Solid ink is an umbrella term for all types of inks that are solid at room temperature. Furthermore, solid ink is also the name of a special, resin-based type of ink, which is heated and liquified before using it to transfer an image onto the medium.
Solid ink has various possible applications, such as printing on paper or fabric. It is valued because of its vibrant colors and shiny finish. Most times, it is used for graphic design printouts, posters, or large batches of prints.
Solid ink has many advantages, such as a glossy finish, vibrant color, and less waste because it does not require cartridges. Moreover, there is no expiration date and no risk of ink drying and clogging the printer because this is already meant to happen. Lastly, solid ink printers might not be cheap, but the more papers you print, the cheaper it will become, meaning it is well suited for large batches and professional printing.
