There are many methods which can be used to print objects, such as conversion coating, screen printing, transfer printing or even hot printing. However, one of the most popular methods is the printing technique which uses water as it medium; in German, it is called wassertransferdruck and it is a fast procedure suitable for a different range of objects and surfaces, of all dimensions and shapes.

Wassertransferdruck is used in a variety of different industries, from personalizing airplanes to producing custom interior for cars, or simply individualizing certain products, such as mugs, sporting equipment and various tools. The wassertransferdruck technique can be used on all sorts of surfaces which resist at contact with water: glass, metal, plastic are the most common of these since they are durable materials which are not affected by the contact with water. The main benefit of hydrographics is the durability of the prints. The whole process was created to produce durable patterns which last in time and under the influence of certain natural conditions, humidity being one of these factors.

Hydrographics is also called hydro dipping, because the process involves submerging objects in water. Here is how it happens: for printing an image, a hydrographic film is used, upon which some patterns are drawn. This film is soluble in water, which means that after being placed in a water recipient, it will start dissolving, once the water reaches a certain temperature. At this stage, the object that is going to be printed should already be prepared for dipping.

Because the wassertransferdruck uses water pressure to make the adhesive ink stick to the object, the surface of this object has to be properly cleaned, so that no grease and dirt can interfere when adhesion takes place. Each material and surface will need different cleaning techniques before being dipped into the basin. Also, an activator substance is placed on the film, to make it stick to the materials. Once this preparation is completed, the objects are slowly immersed into the water, while the ink wraps around them. After a few minutes, the objects can be taken out and left to dry. After a thorough inspection, the object is ready for the finishing touches, a protective coat which can be either glossy or matte.

In just a few words, we have described how you can manage to print an object with the hydrographics process. This technique is very popular in the car industry, where it has been used for years, but was once only used in the military, to apply camouflage prints on vehicles and military equipment. Nowadays, this technology is available for anyone, as costs have decreased. Also, due to the fact that it’s very easy to produce good prints and the process only takes a few minutes (depending on the object, the materials, the dimensions etc.) it’s very popular in the industries which produce sporting equipment, which has to be durable in all sorts of conditions. For those interested in adding a personal note to their products or goods, the wassertransferdruck technique is very convenient and economical, and also safe for the environment, so it’s a perfect choice for all industries.

15 minutes! That is all it takes to print your dashboard using hydrographics http://www.hgarts.com . Wassertransferdruck http://www.hgarts.com is easy, quick, and economical!