FINISHES OF HIGH VISIBILITY

The aesthetic factor is an essential aspect of Polplastic’s plastic moulding process. For this reason, we try to offer the highest quality finishes, using various techniques according to the customers’ requirements: pad printing, in-mould decoration of plastic materials, and hot stamping. All these solutions guarantee maximum resistance not only to extreme temperature conditions but also to mechanical stress. As we will see in detail below, pad printing, in-mould decoration of plastic materials, and hot stamping are different techniques and each of them offers specific advantages.

PAD PRINTING

Pad printing allows the reproduction of drawings, decorations, and writing on irregular, concave or convex surfaces. In other words, through this procedure it is possible to transfer two-dimensional images and graphics onto three-dimensional objects and surfaces. Pad printing transfers an indelible ink film from an engraved steel (or photopolymer) plate to the surface of the support. This happens thanks to a silicone pad which, by virtue of its softness and flexibility, allows printing also on uneven surfaces, adapting to the forms on which it is pressed. Pad printing offers a higher print quality compared to screen printing, in particular as regards the definition of very thin lines.

IN-MOULD DECORATION

Unlike pad printing, the in-mould decoration of plastic materials is carried out during the moulding process. It is obtained by inserting a screen-printed polycarbonate decorative film in the mould cavity prior to the plastic moulding process. Used for multi-coloured decorations or with an abrasion resistant coating, this technique offers several advantages compared to other decorative methods: it is less expensive, does not use solvent-based (non-ecological) adhesives, guarantees the permanent decoration of the product, and supports graphics in three dimensions. The use of IMD is widespread for the finishing of automotive components, but also in other sectors such as those of domestic appliances and telecommunications.

HOT STAMPING

Hot stamping is used primarily for decorating flat surfaces. Combining pressure, heat and speed, this technique allows a decorative film to be transferred to different types of substrates, including plastic. The hot stamped finish is the only one able to guarantee shine and metallic effects (gold, silver, etc.). The foils used are available in many colours, even with rather particular effects: iridescence, wood grain, marble, and many others. The foils may differ for their aesthetic characteristics and also in terms of lifespan, resistance to friction and loss of color, fragility, opacity, adherence.