UV inks lead the way in the European market

As the safety and environmental friendliness of UV ink is gradually accepted by users, it has also achieved explosive growth in many new market segments.

In recent years, UV ink has been growing its market share in the European printing sector, and even with the outbreak of the economic crisis, the market demand for this ink is still very strong.

However, behind the great popularity of UV technology, many UV ink manufacturers, suppliers, accessory suppliers and equipment manufacturers are concerned about the durability of this ink can be recognized by the market.

In addition, there are a number of printing companies, paper converters and end users in the health, safety and environmental protection of the UV printing process. Since it first hit the European market 30 years ago, the skepticism surrounding UV inks has not stopped.

The biggest concern is the harmful components in UV inks, especially photoinitiators, which can be transferred from packaging materials to food.

In order to eliminate user concerns about the safety of UV inks, printing companies must follow the correct process when using UV inks, in addition, UV ink manufacturers need to provide their customers with more technical support.

In order to reduce the burden on printing companies, equipment suppliers have developed a series of monitoring tools and systems, including electronic control devices, which not only collects data on the operation of the equipment, but also uses it as the basis for adjusting the equipment.

From a long-term perspective, UV inks, accessories and equipment manufacturers face the biggest challenge is to develop a product that can replace the traditional mercury curing lamp. Mercury has now been included in the list of hazardous substances restricted for use in electrical and electronic equipment by the European Union.

From the current situation, one of the most promising new technologies is the use of LED (light-emitting diodes) to dry UV inks and varnishes. But users want to use this curing method, manufacturers will have to make significant adjustments to the ink formulation.

The use of LED equipment can further demonstrate the environmental advantages of UV printing, but also can significantly reduce the energy use of printing companies.

One of the main reasons for the rapid expansion of the UV ink market is that it is extremely safe and environmentally friendly, and can help printers meet the latest VOC emission regulations issued by the European Union.