Hello all new guy doing tons of research onto what is actually going to work for me So here I am again with another question.
I am trying to get custom graphics (multiple colors) onto either HDPE (white) or acrylic (clear or whiteor white opaque).
Plastics are 3-5mm in thickness and are flat. Graphics need to have good durability, scratch resistant, etc. as the product is 'handled/used".
I was looking at an A2 or A3 (preferred) flatbed printer using eco-solvent inks as I know that process will work well. The cost is a bit prohibitive as I am a small start up.
I alllllmost pulled the money out to do the diy flatbed thing. 'Cept I couldn't get the A3 printer version I wanted only A2 is available. Still working on that one. In the meantime,
Someone here mentioned sublimation and I thought yeah that could work. I have done a bunch of research into that. Getting the sub prints from an outsource looks awesome cost wise!
I read issues on warping and the heat needed for sub will not work well with HDPE, looks great on acrylic though. I do have concerns about it working on the "thin" 3-5mm thick stuff. Sounds like I would have problems with warping.
Then I read about the CLTT (color laser toner transfer). I sounds simple, easy and lower temps. I can afford the printer they seem less costly. Is it really as simple as it reads or am I missing something?
Do the colors/graphics come out well?
Is warping not an issue?
Durable?
Think it would work for me?
Thanks a bunch for any suggestions!
here is a pic of what we have done in the past with a Neoflex and eco solvent inks.
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