Resin printing has now become a useful solution for wide-format print shops looking to expand their capabilities. Resin technology uses a water-based resin ink that produces long-lasting, high-quality prints on a wide variety of media, unlike traditional solvent-based workflows. This makes resin printers particularly advantageous for signage, decor, wallpaper and fabric. Overall, the Epson R-Series proves to be a solid option for print service providers seeking an increase in productivity, media options, and professional image quality.
What Is Resin Print Technology?
Resin print technology is a specialized water-based resin ink that is cured through the printer's heating process. The resin ink forms a permanent coating over the surface of the media instead of solvent evaporation. This method enables efficient production and retains good image quality and color consistency.
The Epson R-Series uses six-color UltraChrome RS ink, a water-based resin ink for professional signage and specialty applications. The Epson SureColor R5070 and R5070L are 64-inch production roll-to-roll printers. They can create signage, wallpaper, fabrics, uncoated papers, and other specialty media.
An interesting benefit is the advantage of the ability to laminate output immediately. The Epson R5070 is designed to create prints that are ready to be immediately laminated, which helps print shops complete finishing faster. Depending on print mode and configuration, the R-Series can also achieve production speeds up to 290 square ft. per hour.
This creates a more versatile printing workflow for businesses that undertake varying projects. Rather than just using traditional signage substrates, operators can consider other uses and specialty media.
What Applications Are Best for Resin Printing?
The strength of resin printing lies in its media versatility. It is ideal for use in professional applications that require a high-image quality, durability, and efficient finishing.
Signage and Graphics
Resin technology is ideal for wide-format signage, the production and printing of banners, adhesive vinyl, posters and traditional sign applications. It can create professional-quality graphics, making it premium for retail displays, promotional graphics and indoor signage.
The Epson R-Series also offers an option for print companies looking to expand beyond traditional signs. This flexibility can permit shops to take more diverse business projects.
Fabric and Soft Signage
Another key application for resin technology is fabric printing. The Epson R-Series is capable of printing directly onto a variety of fabrics, including canvas, coated/non-coated media and woven media. A range of abilities can be used for soft signage, textile graphics and interior design.
This is especially beneficial for companies that are in the interior decor business. Printed fabrics can provide an interesting display and also generate extra profits for existing signage vendors.
Wallpaper and Interior Graphics
Specialty media, such as wallpaper, can also be used with resin printers. This can be used for custom wallpaper printing, branded environments, hospitality interior applications, and commercial décor projects.
The R-Series' low curing temperatures aid in widening media compatibility. It has a three-tier heating system to control the curing process and to accommodate specialty materials.
Specialty Print Applications
The technology can be applied to other specialty applications such as thin gift wrapping and other special media. The versatility can help commercial printers to take on unusual job requirements and specifications instead of turning them away.
How Is Resin Different From Solvent Printing?
The biggest difference between resin and solvent printing is the ink chemistry and curing process.
Solvent printers use solvent-based inks or eco-solvents. They are popular for outdoor graphics and classic signage applications due to their ability to deliver high levels of adhesion and durability on appropriate media. But solvent workflows depend on evaporating solvents as the drying process.
Resin printers, on the other hand, use water-based resin inks. The UltraChrome RS inkset is said to be odorless and water-based in the Epson R-Series. The printed surface is cured by controlled heating, creating a durable surface.
The difference can have implications for the application of the respective technologies. Meanwhile, for schools, hospitals, hotels and indoor facilities, where odor could be a factor, resin printing can be particularly appealing.
Resin also offers notable media versatility. Solvent print is a highly capable technology for signage, and resin can be used for signage substrates as well as fabrics, wallpaper, uncoated papers and other specialty media.
Explore Epson R-Series Resin Printers
The Epson R-Series printing solution from Imaging Spectrum is suitable for companies looking to enter production resin printing, including the Epson SureColor R5070 and the Epson SureColor R5070L. Both are 64” resin printers for high-volume production environments. The R5070L also offers a bulk-ink setting for large printing runs.
The combination of high-volume printing, specialty media support, and immediate lamination capabilities makes the R-Series a compelling option for modern print shops. Whether it's expanding signage production, moving into fabric printing or diversifying into higher-value décor applications.
Explore the Epson R-Series printers from Imaging Spectrum to compare available models and determine which production solution fits your business requirements.
