Immersion printing, water transfer printing, or hydro imaging are all methods that can be used to apply graphics to almost any three-dimensional object. The auto industry has been using this process for many years, as have many other industries. The use of hydro films is common in many places today, including firearms, helmets, gaming controllers, and ATVs. Other materials (substrates) can also be covered by the film, including metal, plastic, and wood.
Preparation Work:
It is now time to prepare the item to be dipped once you have chosen the item to be dipped and the design you wish to use. The preparation process is the same whether you are painting the item or not. Additionally to the base and primer, the item must be sanded/scuffed, primed, and coated with a clear coat. After applying our base coat and before applying our clear coat, the only difference is that we add the hydro dipping step after applying our base coat.
Base Coat:
Base coats are used in hydro film designs to provide a primary or secondary color to adhere to. Almost any color of base coat can be used for films, but many works with a light tan or white shade. To create a completely different appearance, apply a film designed for a white base coat over a color of your choice.
Film:
Rotating printers are usually used to print designs on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film. Wide-format printers are also often used to print these designs on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film. By using water-soluble film, inks and films become softer and more flexible. The usual method for hydrating most films is 90°F water for 60 seconds. Regardless, 90°F water is still needed to hydrate our Metallic and 40-micron films, but it takes 90-120 seconds.
Activator:
The process of dipping is made possible by the activator, a chemical. After the film has finished hydrating, this chemical is applied to it. In the presence of the activator, the film dissolves and the ink melts. As soon as the film is placed in the water, you will need to spray it with a quick and light mist, then again after it has been hydrated.
Dipping:
The item to be graphically printed on is slowly lowered (dipped) into the film after the film has hydrated and the activator has been applied. The surface tension of the water pushes the film/design onto all angles and surfaces of the item being dipped as it is lowered into the water with the now liquefied film on top with the help of a water transfer printing gun.
Rinsing:
The dipped item will now have a slimy residue on it after you have finished dipping it. You need to rinse this residue off. People rinse with many different methods including showerheads, garden hoses, and even kitchen sinks (again, not recommended due to the odor of the activator). Rub gently on the item while rinsing to help loosen the residue while rinsing to help speed up the process.
Durability:
The paints and clears you use are as durable as hydro dipping. Using automotive paint for your Corvette grand sport car can ensure that your graphics are as long-lasting and beautiful as the paint on a new car. In addition to auto-grade paints (for rims and auto parts) and Cerakote (for firearms and bows), different paints are used for different applications. The paint you choose will determine the outcome of the project.
Conclusion
You can connect with the American Hydrocarbon if required any water transfer printing equipment. As we are the best providers for the hydro graphics film for your Corvette. We have all the facilities to provide excellent service when you desire.
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