Hydrographic printing is a technology that enables decorating of all kinds of surfaces, even complex 3D objects. The word hydro graphics is a compound made up of ‘hydro’ meaning water, and ‘graphics’ meaning image. Also known as water transfer printing or hydro dipping, it refers to a process that can decorate both flat and 3D surfaces of all kinds including glass, metal, and wood. Here at Aviwraps, we have years of experience in hydrodipping and can offer you a great choice of hydro dip patterns or custom design them to your requirements.
So, what is hydro dipping exactly?
The process involves attaching a hydrographic film to the object to be printed upon and placing it in water. A special solution is then sprayed onto the film. The film dissolves in the water, leaving the ink ingrained on the object. After drying, a base paint is added to optimize the color.
Also known as immersion printing and hydro dipping, hydro graphics have been around since the early 1980s making it a proven technology. One of its strengths is the sheer range of substrata that it can handle, in terms of both the type of material and the shape and texture of the items that can be decorated. Whether large or small, smooth or rough, flat or curved, as long as the object can be immersed in water, it’s ripe for immersion printing.
The complete process is involved, as the item has to be prepared, primed, painted, dipped and clear-coated. Though it’s a complex procedure, the result is a design that bursts with visual appeal and is extremely long-lasting. This can be shown in the way that leading companies in fields ranging from aviation and automobiles to kitchen components and powersports have made full use of the process with great success.
You can apply hydrographic printing to any kind of vehicle including cars, bikes, and boats. It can even be applied to objects such as weapons and bike helmets. As we mentioned, any item you can submerge in water can be hydro dipped. Objects treated via hydro painting maintain their color and firmness for years, even boats buffeted by salt sprays and harsh sunlight.
If this is something that appeals to you, get in touch with Aviwraps today. We have well over a decade of experience and can offer you top-flight professional services that ensure your success.