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posted by  |  posted on January 12, 2015  |  comments 0

3D printing

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Difference between Offset printing, Digital printing and 3D printing.

3D printing or additive manufacturing is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. The creation of a 3D printed object is achieved using additive processes. In an additive process an object is created by laying down successive layers of material until the entire object is created. Each of these layers can be seen as a thinly sliced horizontal cross-section of the eventual object.

Several 3D printing processes have been invented since the late 1970s.

The printers were originally large, expensive, and highly limited in what they could produce.

Offset printing is a commonly used technique. In this method inked image is transferred (or “offset”) from a plate to a rubber blanket, then to the printing surface. Offset printing enables us to provide high quality print in large volumes. The finished product offers extremely high image quality that is clean, detailed and vibrant in colour. Offering quick print turnaround times for large volume runs, offset printing also offers a large variety of paper coating and finishing options. This method is most economical in terms of large volume print jobs. Offset printing is easiest to match colours using Pantone matching system and mix the colours accordingly to achieve the desired colour combination.

Digital printing refers to methods of printing from a digital-based image directly to a variety of media. It usually refers to professional printing where small-run jobs from desktop publishing and other digital sources are printed using large-format and/or high-volume laser or inkjet printers. Digital printing has a higher cost per page than more traditional offset printing methods, but this price is usually offset by avoiding the cost of all the technical steps required to make printing plates. It also allows for on-demand printing, short turnaround time, and even a modification of the image (variable data) used for each impression. The savings in labor and the ever-increasing capability of digital presses means that digital printing is reaching the point where it can match or supersede offset printing technology’s ability to produce larger print runs of several thousand sheets at a low price.