Solvent Printers For Outdoor Signage

Solvent printers are a relatively new technology that has opened up the market for inkjet printing in outdoor applications, including signage, banners and posters – a vital development for businesses that want to promote and advertise outdoors.

Why Solvent Printers?

For those who aren’t especially technology-savvy, the idea of solvent printers and solvent ink can seem a little confusing. So why choose them for outdoor printing? Their main benefit is the ability to print directly onto uncoated plastics such as banner vinyl. The printer heats the media as it prints, allowing the solvent ink to penetrate the plastic and become embedded in it.

While outdoor prints using aqueous ink are at risk of damage from rain, scratches or other hazards, media printed with solvent ink is fully protected – making solvent printers ideal for businesses running poster or banner campaigns.

Mild or Aggressive?

This refers to which type of solvent ink best suits your printing needs. Mild-solvent ink uses slow-drying liquids, so printers using it rely on several built-in heaters to help the ink dry – the faster the machine prints, the more heat is required.

Aggressive solvent inks, by comparison, dry faster and need fewer heaters, so heat-sensitive media can be used more successfully. Aggressive solvent inks also tend to resist outdoor conditions better and work across a wider range of materials, and the resins involved make it easier to produce a glossy finish once dry – giving colours more impact, which is great for advertising signs and banners.

Where Can I Buy Solvent Printers?

If a solvent printer could benefit your business, you won’t be short of places to look. They’re increasingly popular and widely available both in specialist stores and online through reputable retailers.

Buying in-store is fine, but shopping online typically gives you a wider selection to choose from, making it easier to find the right printer for your business – often at a more competitive price than the high street.

Need Advice on Solvent Printers?

Design Supply has been a trusted large format printing specialist for over 35 years, supplying more than 7,000 printers to businesses across the UK. If you’d like advice on the right solvent printer for your outdoor signage, or a no-obligation quote, call our team on 020 7842 1555 or get in touch online – we’re happy to help.