As part of Durst’s ongoing research into developing new applications for large format UV inkjet printing, we have perfected the process of printing on glass. Samples will be shown on our stand at FESPA.

Durst Rho Rigid ink has always had the best adhesion in the market for traditionally difficult rigid media such as glass, acrylics and polycarbonates. However, previously printed glass could only be used for indoor applications. Now, with the new Digital Glass Decoration System, printed glass will withstand outdoor or wet conditions for long periods of time.

The Digital Glass Decoration System is specifically targeted at the screen printing industry as a hybrid process. The special UV primer is applied by the screen printing process onto the glass which then passes into the Rho in a continuous process. The image is printed and passes under the Rho’s UV lamp where the primer and ink are cured together. The wet on wet printing forms a chemical bond and provides the print with excellent adhesion. Furthermore, Durst Rho printers have industrial printing options for handling heavy boards and are therefore ideally suited for printing large, heavy glass panels.

To highlight the development, Durst will exhibit the work of Ernst Fuchs, the leading Austrian artist, printed on glass panels, at the Sony Center in Berlin during FESPA. The Sony Center, located in the Potsdamer Platz in the centre of Berlin, is an ideal venue for exhibiting the artwork. Its striking architecture, entirely in steel and glass, features a spectacular glass roof spanning a large plaza area. By printing on glass panels, Durst brings to life a stunning collection of Ernst Fuchs paintings whilst demonstrating our printing capability.

Durst commissioned standardised adhesion tests for the Digital Glass Decoration System. The system passed, amongst others, the following important tests for outdoor usage:

Water Resistance Testing of Coatings in 100% Relative Humidity (ASTM D2247)
The printed glass panels are placed in an enclosed chamber maintained at a temperature of 100°F (38°C) at 100% relative humidity. The test samples are cooled at the back so that condensation forms.

The test samples are then evaluated: there was no colour change, blistering, loss of adhesion, softening or embrittlement.

Water Resistance of Coatings Using Water Immersion (ASTM D870)
The test panels are immersed in water maintained at a temperature of 100°F (38°C). The test samples are evaluated as above and they passed all the criteria.

An important benefit to come from these tests is that Durst’s process for UV digital glass decoration is the first to meet the requirements for outdoor application.

Press Information
Tony Wheeler           
Wheeler Carrington Teff
PO Box 1133, 120 Miswell Lane
Tring
Hertfordshire
HP23 4WQ

Email: tony@wctpartners.com
Tel: 01442 822522