dimanche 15 décembre 2013

Select Digital Printing That Is Eco Friendly

By Cornelia White


The whole process of printing has undergone a major transformation in a relatively short period of time. With the invention of digital presses, there is the option of using a computerized process instead of an industrial one. This has eliminated much wastage of resources, time and energy. Choosing to use digital printing that is eco friendly takes this a step further.

The offset printing process uses the concept of oil and water repelling each other to produce a beautiful, high-quality print. The rollers distribute ink onto a plate which has been photo-engraved with text and images. The images on the plate are transferred to a rubber blanket, and then applied to paper. This process is a huge consumer of time, energy and resources. Chemicals are used for film and plate making and the whole process is accompanied by liquid and solid waste and fumes, some of which needs special treatment for disposal.

The new plate-free technology means less chemicals are used and less pollutants or hazardous waste is produced as a byproduct. Pleasing color prints are produced. This process is generally better for smaller print runs and offers fast turn around times. It works well for full color business cards, stationery, promotional material and other personalized print work involving fewer than a thousand sheets.

Not all presses offer the same quality of color and clarity. It is important for customers to find out exactly what presses are being used and what they are capable of producing. Some of the newer presses are more suitable for certain applications than others. One machine may be better for a particular job than another, depending on cost, quality and size of a run.

Customers need to be discerning when looking for printers like this. Going green is so popular that many businesses use it as a catch phrase without much substance behind it. Some printers go the whole way, using only 100% recycled paper, vegetable inks and so on while others allow the client to choose the extent to which they want to go green.

Vegetable based inks are becoming more popular as they emit fewer volatile organic compounds than traditional petroleum-based inks. Initially it was expensive to use these inks but costs are beginning to go down as demand goes up. Soy based ink is one of the inks used and it produces good color.

With regard to paper used, there are various categories identifying which products meet expectations with regard to environmental responsibility. The use of alternative energy, such as wind generated electricity is one of these. Another is whether the paper is free of processed chlorine. Some printers use only 100% recycled paper while others use a variety of different papers, leaving it up to the customer to choose. Other printers use only paper made with electricity that is wind generated. Most printers use recycled paper to some extent thus reducing the use of virgin wood fibers.

Selecting to use digital printing that is eco friendly shows commitment to the environment. However, with the advances in technology this does not mean sacrificing quality. There are presses, papers and inks being made today causing no environmental harm and offering vibrant color and clarity.




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