Choosing the right ink is the key to achieving high-quality output for any uv ink printer.
Whether you’re printing phone cases, metal nameplates, decorative glass, or ceramic tiles, the ink you use has a direct impact on adhesion, durability, and color performance.
This guide breaks down UV ink packaging options, ink types, application scenarios, and compatibility—all in clear .
UV Printer Ink Packaging Options
UV inks are typically available in 1L and 500ml packaging to meet different production needs.
Large factories often choose 1L for continuous output, while small studios prefer 500ml to reduce waste.
1L UV Ink: For Medium to Large Production Lines
1. Rigid UV Ink (1L)
Colors: White, Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black, Light Cyan, Light Magenta
Matching varnish: Rigid gloss varnish (1L)
Ideal for:
Acrylic, glass, metal, ceramic tiles, hard plastics
Applications include:
- Metal nameplates, signage, control panels
- Glass panels, decorative glass, appliance glass
- Acrylic displays, PC panels, ABS cases, helmets
- Stone and ceramic tile wall panels
2. Flexible UV Ink (1L)
Colors: White, CMYK, LC, LM
Matching varnish: Flexible varnish (1L)
Ideal for:
Leather, TPU, flexible films, soft phone cases, coated fabrics
Typical applications:
- Soft PVC & synthetic leather
- TPU phone/tablet cases, smart wearables
- Silicone wristbands, baby products
- PET/PETG films, labels, membrane switches
- Elastic fabrics, outdoor gear
- Rubber accessories, flexible packaging
- Treated PP/PE films
Suitable for:
High-volume UV printing lines, continuous orders, and high ink-consumption environments.
uv ink printing for clothing logo
Varnish Options for UV Ink Printing
Varnishes enhance surface durability and visual texture. You can choose from:
1. Gloss Varnish
Mirror-like shine, strong color impact
Used for: premium packaging, electronics, automotive accessories
2. Matte Varnish
Non-reflective, high-end satin look, fingerprint-resistant
Used for: art prints, control panels, luxury electronics
3. Soft-Touch Varnish
Silky finish with a premium feel
Used for: cosmetic packaging, luxury boxes, stationery
4. Functional Varnishes
- Anti-scratch / anti-abrasion
- Water- and chemical-resistant
- Low-temperature foil stamping primer
You may also encounter uv inks for offset printing, a different category of UV inks used in high-speed commercial print processes. While not used in flatbed UV printers, they highlight how diverse UV ink technology has become.
500ml UV Ink: Ideal for Custom Studios & Small Businesses
Available in rigid and flexible formulations:
White, CMYK, Light colors, Varnish
Best for:
- Online sellers
- Phone case customization
- Small studios
- Color testing and new machine setups
Advantages:
No waste, easier inventory management, short shelf life makes it easy to use up on time.
Key Performance Features of UV Printing Inks
- High color saturation
Ultra-fine particles (0.1–0.2 μm) for vivid, clean output - Smooth ink flow
No clogging, no sedimentation, stable for long-hour printing - Low-odor & eco-friendly
No VOCs, safe for indoor environments - Strong adhesion
UV-cured prints resist abrasion, UV light, and outdoor weather
Common Applications of UV Printing
Phone Cases (Hard & Soft)
- Sharp, vivid graphics
- Strong adhesion on PC, TPU, PET
- Supports 3D embossed UV printing
Ceramic Tiles & Wall Panels
- Stable color on large prints
- Waterproof, UV-resistant
Glass & Acrylic Displays
- High transparency
- Excellent scratch resistance
Metal Printing (Tags, Gifts)
- Durable, fade-resistant
- Bright, high-density colors
Soft & Hard Materials (Leather, PVC, ABS, KT Board)
- Stable output for advertising production
UV Ink Specifications
| Item | Parameter |
|---|---|
| Viscosity | 4–6 cps |
| Particle Size | ＜0.1–0.2 μm |
| Surface Tension | 25–35 dynes/cm |
| Curing | UV/LED instantly cured |
| Shelf Life | 12 months for CMYK; 6 months for white |
| Storage | 5–25°C, sealed, away from light |
Compatible UV Printing Machines
UV ink works with most mainstream industrial UV printers, including:
- Epson I1600 UV printhead
- Epson I3200 UV printhead
- Ricoh G5i
- Ricoh G6
Any UV-LED curing system can typically use the corresponding UV ink model.
