Sublimation ink is designed for sublimation printing, a process where heat turns solid dye into gas, embedding it into polyester fabrics or coated materials. This produces vibrant, long-lasting images ideal for garments, flags, and banners. Its formulation differs completely from regular inks. Learn more about sublimation ink here.
Regular inks (dye- or pigment-based) are for standard materials like paper, relying on surface adhesion. Sublimation inks are formulated for specific substrates and require heat to embed the color, making them unsuitable for ordinary paper or conventional printers. Using the wrong ink can compromise print quality and damage equipment.
Regular printers cannot reach the temperatures needed for sublimation. Using sublimation ink in such printers leads to faded, blurred, or missing images. The ink can also clog or damage print heads, potentially causing permanent printer damage.
Choosing the correct ink ensures high print quality and protects equipment. Standard inks are suitable for everyday printing, while sublimation inks are only for specialized high-temperature applications. Understanding ink properties and intended use helps avoid costly mistakes and guarantees optimal results. For questions about inks or guidance on selection, feel free to contact us.