Soft ink creates a flexible film after printing, suitable for materials that require elasticity, such as leather, soft packaging, and certain labels. It contains resins or plasticizers that allow the printed image to bend, stretch, or fold without cracking or peeling.
Hard ink forms a rigid image layer, ideal for hard substrates like metal, glass, and ceramics. It provides high durability, scratch resistance, and long-term weather resistance, making it suitable for outdoor signage, decorative materials, and electronic product casings.
The choice between soft and hard inks depends on substrate properties and final use. Soft inks excel on flexible materials like plastic bags and garments, while hard inks perform best on rigid materials like metal or glass, offering strong adhesion and durability. Comparison table:
| Property | Soft Ink | Hard Ink |
| Flexibility | High, adapts to material deformation, resists cracking | Low, suitable for rigid materials |
| Application Scenarios | Garment printing, flexible labels, packaging | Outdoor signage, metal/aluminum signs, electronic casings |
| Adhesion | Moderate, suitable for flexible substrates | High, ideal for rigid substrates |
| Durability | Excellent, ideal for elasticity needs | Superior, perfect for abrasion resistance |
| Curing Method | Ambient or UV curing | UV light or high-temperature curing |
Consider substrate characteristics, application environment, and functional requirements. Hard inks suit high-intensity or outdoor exposure, while soft inks are best for flexible materials and manipulable products. For more on UV inks, click here.
Understanding the distinction between soft and hard inks ensures optimal printing results, improved product quality, and extended lifespan. Contact us for further guidance on ink selection.
