5 Advantages of using flexible Packaging Ink solutions

Packaging ink is a crucial element in the packaging industry. It is specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of packaging applications, including adhesion, durability, and resistance to external factors. Packaging inks can be used for various applications, such as food, pharmaceutical, and consumer goods. This article, penned by GLS Group - one of the top-ranked Packaging ink manufacturers in India, will discuss packaging inks in detail, including their types, properties, and applications.

Types of Packaging Inks:

Several packaging inks are available in the market, including water-based, solvent-based, UV-curable, and electron beam (EB) inks.

If you are looking for one of the most distinct as well as noteworthy Packaging ink manufacturers in India, GLS Group can fulfill your packaging ink requirements.

1.   Water-Based Inks:

Water-based inks are among the most popular packaging. They are made by suspending pigments and resins in water. These inks are eco-friendly, low in VOC (volatile organic compound) content, and free from hazardous chemicals. They are also easy to clean up and have excellent adhesion properties. Water-based inks are commonly used for printing on corrugated cardboard boxes, paper bags, and other paper-based packaging materials.

2.   Solvent-Based Inks:

Solvent-based inks are made by dissolving pigments and resins in solvents. These inks are fast-drying, have excellent adhesion properties, and resist external factors such as water, chemicals, and abrasion. However, they have a high VOC content and can be hazardous to the environment and human health. Solvent-based inks are commonly used for printing on flexible packaging materials, such as plastic bags and films.

3.   UV-Curable Inks:

UV-curable inks are made by mixing pigments and resins with photoinitiators. When exposed to UV light, these inks cure, creating a durable and scratch-resistant surface. They are eco-friendly, have low VOC content, and do not emit hazardous chemicals. UV-curable inks are commonly used for printing on plastics, metals, and glass.

4.   Electron Beam (EB) Inks:

EB inks are made by mixing pigments and resins with a photoinitiator that reacts with electrons emitted from an electron beam. When exposed to the electron beam, these inks cure instantly, creating a durable and scratch-resistant surface. They are eco-friendly, have low VOC content, and do not emit hazardous chemicals. EB inks are commonly used for printing on food packaging and pharmaceutical packaging.

Properties of Packaging Inks:

Packaging inks have several properties that make them suitable for packaging applications, and certainly, GLS Group offers excellent flexible Packaging ink services in India.

●    Adhesion:

Packaging inks must have excellent adhesion properties to ensure they adhere well to the packaging material and do not chip or peel off. Adhesion is critical for ensuring the packaging remains intact during storage and transportation.

●    Durability:

Packaging inks must be durable and resistant to external factors such as water, chemicals, and abrasion. This ensures that the packaging remains intact and the printed information is legible even after exposure to harsh conditions.

●    Colourfastness:

Packaging inks must be colorfast, meaning they should not fade or lose their vibrancy over time. This ensures that the packaging looks attractive and eye-catching even after prolonged use.

●    Safety:

Packaging inks must be safe for use in food packaging and pharmaceutical packaging. They should not contain harmful chemicals or substances that can leach into the packaged product.

5 Advantages of using Packaging ink services in India:

Flexible packaging is a popular product choice, offering several advantages over traditional rigid packaging. Flexible packaging inks are specifically designed for flexible packaging materials such as plastic films, aluminum foil, and paper.

●    Versatility:

Flexible packaging inks can be used on various materials, including plastics, paper, and aluminum foil. This versatility allows manufacturers to create packaging suitable for various products, including food, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods.

●    Cost-Effective:

Flexible packaging inks are cost-effective when compared to traditional rigid packaging. Flexible packaging requires less material, which results in lower production costs. Also, flexible packaging is lightweight, reducing transportation costs and carbon footprint.

●    Design Flexibility:

Flexible packaging inks offer design flexibility that allows manufacturers to create packaging that is visually appealing and attractive to consumers. This flexibility includes the ability to use a wide range of colors, graphics, and printing techniques to create custom packaging that meets the unique needs of each product.

●    Longer Shelf Life:

Flexible packaging inks are designed to protect against external factors such as moisture, oxygen, and light. This barrier helps extend the packaged product's shelf life and reduces the risk of spoilage, which can result in financial losses for manufacturers.

●    Environmentally Friendly:

Flexible packaging inks are eco-friendly as they require less material to produce, reducing the waste generated. Additionally, flexible packaging materials are lightweight and require less transport energy, reducing carbon footprint. Many flexible packaging ink solutions are also recyclable, which further reduces waste.

Final Thoughts:

Flexible packaging inks offer several advantages over traditional rigid packaging. They are versatile, cost-effective, offer design flexibility, extend the shelf life of products, and are environmentally friendly. Manufacturers can benefit from these advantages by choosing flexible packaging inks solutions for their packaging needs.