subject: Managed print services – different types of printing [print this page] Managed print services different types of printing
All over the world, prints are created every second with millions of pages being churned out in offices and homes. Managed print services offers a way to monitor and manage all of these printing resources, helping companies reduce the waste and costs incurred and teaching companies how to aim towards more sustainable printing practices. While though most people don't think much about the printing they do each day, it may come as a surprise to know that there are a number of different printing methods knowing which type of printing method you require for specialised projects will help you ensure that the right ink, paper and process is used for your printing and that you approach the right printing company to help you do the prints correctly with the right machinery. Here is a guide to some of the most commonly used printing methods:
Digital Printing
Managed print services experts advise that digital printing is the best option if you are looking for mass printing that is affordable and effective. This is because this type of printing reduces the time to complete the printing process, and does not require films and plates. The way digital prints work is that the digital file is transferred directly to the printing press by means of a computer. This printing method is relatively fast, and as a result of this, many businesses such as promotion companies, ad agencies, design companies and other busy types of companies often rely on digital printing to meet deadlines and schedules.
Offset Lithography
The most common printing method aside from digital printing is offset lithography. This type of printing saves on ink and time, making it an affordable and fast method according to managed print services experts. Printers offset the ink from metal plates to a rubber cylinder, and then transfer it onto the paper stock.
Letterpress
As one of the first printing methods, the Letterpress was a groundbreaking printing method in its day. This press was created by Gutenberg, and gave birth to the concept of relief printing, that created a raised image from the surface of the print. Sadly, this printing method is slowly becoming redundant with new and much faster methods being developed and used in modern times.
Electrostatic Printing
Electrostatic printing works in a similar way to photocopying, allowing the colour to attach to a drum, where it is then blended with the paper using heat application. This type of printing is also similar to digital printing, say managed print services experts, as it also provides cost effective production of short print runs.
Thermography
Thermography is a type of printing method that produces a raised image, and is often used for stationary, invitations or other similar printed material. This method uses a special powder or dust that easily sticks to wet ink. Heat is then applied to the paper, to blend the ink and power to create the raised or embossed image. This type of printing is generally more expensive due to the process; however managed print services experts recommend this for special print orders.
