New to Fotoprint
UV Coating
What is uv coating?
It is a polymer resin with a lamination-like appearance which is used to protect printed products and to enhance their appearance. The liquid is applied after the product is printed, using our new uv coater, and is instantly cured as it passes under intense ultraviolet light.
Is the uv coating process toxic?
Uv coating is 100% non toxic. It has no flash point and emits no VOC's (volatile organic compounds), mutagens, fetal toxins or carcinogens. It is also not regulated as hazardous waste and does not appear on any Community Right to Know list.
What is the advantage of uv coating?
In addition to the physical appearance, the printed material has an extra layer of protection from abrasion and will not rub off in someone's wallet or hands. There is also no loss of flexibility.
Is uv coating economical?
Due to the coating being an off-line operation and therefore an extra step, your final price will increase by a small percentage. Here are some pricing examples of the extra cost to apply a "gloss" uv coating:
- 500 - 3.5" x 2" Business cards, uv 1 side … $17.88
- 500 - 3.5" x 2" Business cards, uv 2 sides … $22.27
- 100 - 11" x 17" Posters, uv 1 side … $29.70
- 500 - 4" x 6" Postcards, uv 1 side … $27.00
- 750 - 7" x 10" Greeting cards, uv 1 side … $74.25
- 1000 - 4" x 9" Rack cards, uv 1 side … $54.00
Can your "Ongoing Specials" be uv coated?
Yes for our 'digital ongoing specials' and no for our 'offset ongoing specials'. The offset specials are produced as gang-runs so individual cards are too small to be fed through the coater after they are trimmed to size.
Can I get uv coating on 2 sides of the printed product?
Yes.
What's the difference between uv coating and plastic laminating?
- Uv coating does not add a measurable thickness to the printed product
- Uv coating cannot encapsulate the stock which seals the edges from moisture
- Uv coating is less expensive
- Uv coating is recyclable
Is uv coating waterproof?
As the edges are not encapsulated, the resulting product is not totally waterproof.
What weights of paper can I uv coat?
A minimum of 100lb. book paper to a maximum of 12pt. thick coated cover.
“We have been looking for an opportunity to economically protect and enhance the look of our short run printing. Plastic laminating is too expensive and not environmentally friendly. Duplo, a manufacturer of quality paper handling equipment since 1951, has recently released an advanced uv coater specifically designed for short run printing. We jumped on it. ”