What is pad printing?

Working Principle

Etched Printing Plate:
A metal plate (such as steel or copper) is etched by chemical or physical methods to create recessed areas that form the desired printing pattern.

Ink Application:
Ink is applied to the plate, filling the etched recesses.

Ink Removal:
A doctor blade removes excess ink from the surface, leaving ink only in the recessed areas.

Ink Pickup:
The silicone pad (printing pad) moves down to contact the plate, and due to ink adhesion, the ink is transferred from the etched recesses to the surface of the pad.

Printing:
The silicone pad then moves to the workpiece and presses down, transferring the ink from the pad onto the surface. The elasticity and deformability of the silicone pad allow it to conform to irregular shapes, ensuring accurate ink transfer.

 

Features & Advantages of Pad Printing

Strong Adaptability:
Ideal for printing on irregular or contoured surfaces, such as golf balls, toys, remote controls, cups, etc.

High Precision:
Capable of printing fine lines and complex patterns with clarity.

Wide Material Compatibility:
Suitable for printing on a variety of materials including plastics, metals, ceramics, glass, and rubber.

Multicolor Capability:
Multiple pad printing passes can be used to achieve multicolor printing.