Professional Solutions for High-Quality Film Output in Growing Businesses

As your business grows and your design demands become more complex, it's essential to upgrade your film output solutions to ensure high-quality and durable results. Traditionally, inkjet-based printers like Epson and laser printers such as OKI have been used for film output. However, for more advanced needs, a more professional solution is required, especially when producing intricate designs and durable, waterproof films. This guide provides insights into upgrading your film output technology.

Traditional Film Output Methods

Inkjet and laser printers are common for small to medium-sized film output tasks. They are cost-effective and relatively easy to maintain. However, they fall short when it comes to producing high-quality, durable films, especially for complex designs requiring multiple colors.

When handling larger jobs, some businesses turn to companies that use offset printing tables. While offset printing can produce high-quality films, the process is often slow, outdated, and expensive. This method may not be ideal for businesses looking to streamline their production processes and reduce costs.

Upgrading to Image Setters

One of the most reliable solutions for high-quality film output is using an image setter. Image setters are superior machines designed for producing high-resolution films. These machines, which can be found for around $1,000 to $3,000, offer significant advantages over traditional printers:

• Superior Film Quality: Image setters produce films with exceptional detail and clarity, making them ideal for intricate designs.
• Durability: Films produced by image setters are more durable and waterproof compared to those produced by inkjet or laser printers.
• Maintenance Requirements: Image setters do require regular maintenance, such as weekly cleaning and chemical top-ups or replacements. Calibration by an expert is also necessary from time to time to ensure optimal performance.

Exploring Thermal Image Setters

Thermal image setters, such as the Techsetter 2 from Exile Technologies, are another option for businesses seeking high-quality film output. While these machines are typically more expensive and may not produce films of the same quality as traditional image setters, they still offer several benefits:

• Efficiency: Thermal image setters streamline the film production process, reducing the number of steps involved.
• Detail: Although not as precise as traditional image setters, thermal image setters can still produce superior films compared to inkjet-printed films.

For businesses requiring extremely fine details, such as text as small as 6pt or 7pt, traditional image setters remain the preferred choice. These machines can produce the fine detail needed for developing plates or screens for pad printing and screen printing on promotional products.

Direct-to-Mesh Printing Systems

Another advanced option is direct-to-mesh printing systems. These systems print directly onto the mesh, eliminating the need to burn a film and then expose the mesh. Although these systems are more expensive, they can significantly reduce the steps in the printing process, improving efficiency and productivity.

Conclusion

Upgrading your film output technology is crucial for meeting the demands of a growing business and producing high-quality, durable films. While traditional inkjet and laser printers may suffice for small tasks, investing in an image setter or thermal image setter can offer significant improvements in film quality and durability. Direct-to-mesh printing systems are also worth considering for their efficiency and advanced capabilities.

For more insights and updates on the latest in printing technology, follow our YouTube Channel and our Tech Blog. If you are in the Greensboro, North Carolina area, feel free to visit us locally for personalized advice and solutions.