Graphic Design & Printing TechnologyUnit - 7
Screen Printing.............................................................................
Introduction
Of all the major printing processes, this porous printing process is undoubtably
the oldest, simplest and inexpensive. Modern screen printing developed in
1940’s and 50’s. Rapid technological advances continue to improve the process
and lead to expanded market. In this unit we will discuss about this process in
detail.
Learning Outcomes
The learner:
- understands the applications of screen printing
- demonstrates the screen printing process
- understands various types of screen frames and fabrics
- demonstrates the preparation of stencil for screen printing
- lists out the substrates for screen printing
- understands the automation in screen printing process
- understands the special applications of screen printing process
Screen printing is the porous printing process of forcing ink through a porous
fabric and the open areas of a stencil to produce an image. Screen printing can
be a very simple process, requiring only a few inexpensive tools and materials
or it can be extremely complex, requiring an array of sophisticated equipment
and production techniques.
Applications of Screen Printing
It can be done on a wide variety of materials including paper, metal, glass, wood
etc. Images can be created using screen printing on clothing and printed circuit
boards. Finished products are as diverse as a football jersey or a traffic sign.
The advantages of screen printing include:
- Images can be printed on a wide variety of substrates
- The production process is relatively easy
- Costs are low compared to other printing processes
- Images can be printed with glitter, flock, and other decorative finishes
- Screen printing can be done on substrate with any shape (flat, cylinder or
irregular)
Disadvantages are: - Rate of production is slow
- Ink mileage is poor
- Details and fine-line images may be difficult to print