Screen printing AND heat transfer

Screen printing

Screen printing is one of the most commonly used methods for decorating plastic packaging. At Maropak, we use LED UV screen printing technology, which ensures high print quality and excellent durability.

The process involves applying ink to the surface of the packaging using a special screen with a pre-designed print pattern. The ink is forced through the mesh by a rubber squeegee, which allows the design to be reproduced precisely on the surface of the packaging.

Employee at screen printing machines in the Maropak hall, with printed packaging alongside

The capabilities of screen printing

Depending on the technical parameters used, such as:

type of ink;

screen density;

thickness of the photosensitive emulsion.

It is possible to achieve a variety of print effects – ranging from fine and precise to more tactile, slightly raised textures.

Screen printing technology is characterised by: 

  • high print durability; 
  • resistance to abrasion and chemicals;
  • very good graphic reproduction quality;
  • stability in mass production.

Materials and applications

We use screen printing on packaging used in a wide range of industries, including:

cosmetics

pharmaceuticals and medical supplies

household chemicals

automotive

technical and industrial chemicals    

gardening

We print on packaging and plastic components such as:

PP

PE

PET

HDPE

LDPE

Visual effects and colour options

Screen printing offers a very wide range of visual effects. The technology allows for both opaque and transparent prints, as well as more advanced decorative effects.

The following can be used:

standard colours and the full colour spectrum;

metallic effects (glossy and satin);

pearlescent effects; 

special inks, e.g. light-sensitive or heat-sensitive.

As a result, screen printing is suitable for both technical projects and packaging requiring a high-quality visual finish.

Heat Transfer – the ‘no-label look’

Heat Transfer is an advanced packaging decoration technology that allows a finished design to be transferred from a film directly onto the surface of the packaging.

The process involves the use of a heat-conducting die which, under the influence of heat and pressure, transfers a pre-prepared design from a heat-transfer film onto the surface.

Applying a printed foil design to plastic packaging using Heat Transfer

The capabilities of heat transfer technology

One of the greatest advantages of this technology is its virtually unlimited design freedom.

The following can be applied to heat transfer film:

  • any number of colours;
  • various printing techniques (screen printing, digital printing, rotogravure, flexography);
  • metallic and hot-stamping effects;
  • pearlescent and holographic effects;
  • textured effects;
  • special layers (e.g. visible when backlit);
  • matt, gloss or mixed varnish finishes.

This makes it possible to achieve very high-quality graphics and visual effects that are not available with many other printing technologies.

Plastic cups with full-colour Heat Transfer print on a decorating machine

Print quality and consistency

Depending on the film preparation technology used, heat transfer printing enables the following:

high print resolution ;

high opacity;

very good colour consistency;

consistent quality throughout the production run.

This solution works particularly well in mass production, where the visual consistency of the product is crucial.

The ‘no-label look’ effect

One of the key features of this technology is the ‘no-label look’ effect, i.e. packaging that appears to have no traditional label.

The graphics become an integral part of the packaging, which means that:

  • the product looks more aesthetically pleasing;
  • the surface of the packaging remains uniform;
  • the structure of the material is preserved.

Advantages over self-adhesive labels

Unlike traditional labels:

  • heat transfer printing does not peel away from the packaging surface;
  • it can be used on flexible packaging;
  • it does not crease or deform during use.

As a result, this technology eliminates the typical problems associated with labels and ensures the durability of the decoration throughout the product’s life cycle.

Applications of the technology

Heat Transfer technology is used wherever the following are important:

high visual quality;

a wide range of colours;

precise reproduction of details;

durability of the print.

This technology is widely used in the production of packaging for cosmetics and food, as well as for products requiring a high standard of finish.

Cups with lids and straws featuring full-colour prints

Would you like your product to stand out on the shelf?

Request a quote for printing on plastic packaging and see what professional decoration can do for your product.

REQUEST A QUOTE