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Sunday 23 June 2013

The Creation Of Digital Printing That Is Eco Friendly

By Lana Bray


The creation of impressions on fabrics is process which has remained very dynamic over the years. While digital printing has been the main method of achieving this, there have been numerous improvements which have taken place in a bid to make the whole process more efficient, more environmental-friendly and to maintain high quality of the final output. As you adopt digital printing that is eco friendly, there may be need to make a few changes in the manner in which you process your textiles.

One of the most effective strategies which can be adopted in ensuring that there is stability is to use clean raw materials. One of the ways in which this can be achieved is by reducing the levels of chromium found in the polish for the screens. This means environmental pollution due to the use of this metal will be reduced. The use of nickel metal to make holes in the screens in place of other metals has also reduced pollution resulting from wear and tear.

To make the process more eco-friendly, it is a good idea to have an efficient system for recycling waste water. This system should help you recycle and reuse as much of the waste water as possible. A good system should help you recycle at least 65% of what is released as waste. Possible uses of the water include washing of printer blankets and pumps.

The other aspects of the production process should also be made to be efficient as well. The machines used can be designed in a way which will help conserve resources such as ink, energy and water. This can be done both for the digital and the conventional printers. Heat generated from processes such as radial extraction can be redirected to be reused in the drying chamber which often requires high supplies of energy. When this is done close to 25% of energy is saved.

In many of the printing techniques, there is need to pre-treat the fabric or other media before creation of impressions. The commonest chemical used for this exercise is urea. The use of urea is usually associated with high levels of carbon dioxide as the fabric is steamed. In addition, there is frequently a need to wash off excess urea which results in water wastage. Eco-friendly options involve the use of a special type of foam which neither produces carbon dioxide nor requires washing.

Another commonly used option is what is known as digital engraving. This technique utilises laser to create images on various media. The main advantages include the fact that the turnaround time is shorter. Other benefits are less energy and water is needed compared to other methods.

Other than engraving, another possible option which may be considered is the use of pigments rather than dyes. Pigments are good for almost any type of medium. This option does not require pre and post treatment which makes it cheaper. In addition, less water, energy and chemicals are required.

To ensure implementation of digital printing that is eco friendly takes place successfully, legal requirements must be considered. The issue of environmental conservation is one of global importance and as such many rules have been created to ensure that the environment is conserved. You will need to be conversant with the specific rules existing in your location.




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