Wide format printing is generally defined to be printing in widths of between seventeen inches and one hundred inches. Printing in widths of over one hundred inches is called Super-Wide or grand format printing. Inks include solvent ink, which is not made with a water base, and ultraviolet (UV) ink, which is curable with ultraviolet light. Special focus is made on the environmental impact of the ink used. Eco-solvent ink is considered to be particularly environmentally friendly. UV ink, too, respects the environment as it contains little or no solvent and produces no volatile organic compounds.
The wide format technology is used for a variety of printing processes, including banners, brochures and catalogs, full color posters and technical drawings, and signs. Media includes rolled media and individual firm sheets and boards. Production can be very quick, with turn-outs of brochures and signs commonly completed in even just one day. Costs range, from pennies per sheet for paper printing, to more than twelve dollars per square foot for complex signage requiring laboratory processing.
The quality of wide format printing is stunning, with vivid colors and sharp detail. For outdoor displays, solvent or eco-solvent ink is generally preferred, as it adheres to non-absorbent materials and is generally fade proof, water proof, and scratch resistant. UV ink, too, produces sharp images which resist fade and retain color vibrancy. Images are commonly laminated for purposes of enhancement and protection. The quality of the photo or image to be reproduced is critical, as enlargement may result in some degradation in the underlying quality. For best results, use the highest resolution images available. |
