Thermography printing (also known as Raised Ink Printing, Thermographic Printing and Offset Thermography) is a process that creates raised areas on printed pieces. Whereas embossing literally changes the shape of the substrate, thermography adds shape to ink. Thermography typically creates “raised printing”, commonly used on business cards, stationery, greeting cards, invitations, marketing and promotional materials, etc.
The Thermography Printing Process
Thermographic printing is a three-step process used with offset printing that occurs after the piece is “printed” via an offset press. Post-printing, while the ink is still wet, the piece is first powdered: coated with a layer of powdered resin that binds itself to wet ink. Second, the piece is vacuumed, removing all the powder that landed on areas without wet ink. Third, the piece is then sent through a heater that melts the powdered resin, combining it with the ink and raising the mixed ink/resin above the surface of the paper.
The piece cools very quickly and the process is complete.
Types of Thermographic Resin
Thermographic printing offers a range of effects. The powdered resin can be fine, medium or coarse, adding potential levels of dimension to the raised print. The sheen of the raised print can be dull, matte or glossy. The resin can be transparent, allowing the color of the ink to shine through, or can itself be colored for additional effects.
Notes for Best Results
Thermographic printing works best on relatively smooth stock (coated or uncoated) – textured paper or card stock can trap powdered resin, muddying the finished product.
If you are printing letterhead or anything else intended to be run through laser printers, you need to specify this and use laser-safe resin. Otherwise, the heat of the printer could melt the thermography.
Keep your letter sizes larger than 7pt and your design elements simple. Intricate detailing may not work well with thermographic printing.
Thermographic printing is not recommended to be combined with printed pieces using halftones.
If you have any questions about thermography, give us a call at 330-597-8560. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your printing project.
