Clean and Green Large Format Printing

Industry experts are now abuzz with the new trend of printers utilizing eco-solvent inks that are friendly to the environment, free of organic compounds and answers ecological concerns that beset our everyday life. It seems that printer providers are beginning to see the difference that they could provide to the environment with eco-solvent inks used for large format printing. With recognition of potential profits with large format inkjet printing, commercial printers are now moving towards utilizing these inks and solvents to control costs, as well as answer the government's call for a more eco-friendly materials in all things.

As recent times have opened up the market for a more environment-friendly printing process, people are now beset with questions on what really are "eco-solvent inks'. A solvent as described by Webster is a substance, usually a liquid that dissolves another substance. But in the inkjet industry, the term is used to describe ink that is not water-based. In fact, according to Digital Output Magazine, these inks generally contain glycol esters or glycol ether esters that are both derived from mineral oil. This means that the bases of these inks are hardly renewable or ecologically sound. In effect, their components tend to have a harsh consequence on the environment. It is therefore suggested that it is best to just identify solvent inks according to their mild or aggressive effects.

In addition, heat is still used in both mild and aggressive solvent inks to aid in their drying process. They just differ in the amount of heat applied—with aggressive solvent inks, they need fewer heaters as they are able to dry faster.

As such, many people are prone to give these solvents a bad reputation. However, the fact remains that they are essential to creating a more brilliant and more quality print media. They are used to improve on a wider color scheme, increased levels in overall gloss effect, and improvement in the totality of image quality.

We therefore have to agree nonetheless that there are also an abundance of equally safe solvents. It is just up to us to decide and do something about the way we use these solvents to create a more ecologically-advantageous working environment. Some precautions are also advised. One of these is to request for a Material Safety Data Sheet from the supplier regarding the product that you just acquired. The data sheet provides specific information about exposure limits and ventilation-extraction requirements, as well as lists the components in the inks.

All in all, it is a rule of thumb that as long as simple ground rules are observed, solvent inkjet printing is still a safe and environmentally sound method. As with Large Format Posters Printing, they are constantly on the lookout for new advances not only on equipment, but also on materials that will eventually help in the overall protection of the environment and the people. This is in line with their commitment to provide better digital printing services that benefits even Mother Earth.

About Large Format Posters Printing

Large Format Posters Printing is a company that provides poster print media. They offer Offset Poster Printing, Inkjet Printing and Finishing. For additional information please log on to http://www.largeformatposters.com
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