A metallized paper is a product that is coated with a layer of aluminium with a matte or gloss finish which offers decorative and protective properties to the product.
Two different systems can be used to create metallized paper:
Goto Herofu to know more.
Lamination
This process involves a gluing process on the paper, normally a non-coated one, to a sheet of aluminiun with a thickness between 9 and 12 micron. This system is used increasingly less owing to the high consumption of aluminium.
Vacuum metallization
This system, which we are going to look at in depth, is the most used and it consists of heating aluminium or another material in a vacuum chamber, vaporizing or sublimating it, and depositing a thin layer on the surface of the a coated substrate. In this case, the main advantage is that 300 times less aluminium is used than in the previous case.
In both cases this type of substrate offers a solution to achieve the distinctive, metallic finish on packaging with only a fraction of the aluminium content of traditional foils. Let's see some more details about the vacuum production process.
What is a vacuum production method and what does it consist?
As mentioned before the best way to produced a metallized paper it's through a vacuum metallization.
The process of producing the metallized paper by the direct high vacuum method consists of three independent processes, which are the following:
Varnishing
A thin layer of varnish is applied to the coated substrate in order to prepare the surface for subsequent metallization. The paper is pre-coated with lacquers that are applied to smooth out the surface of the paper to act as a barrier between the paper and the metallized layer and to improve the adhesion of the vaporized metal. The varnish is applied in the varnisher through a process similar to gravure printing. Once the varnish has been applied, the paper passes through the hot air drying unitin order to remove the solvents of the varnish and therefore dry the paper until it has a moisture level of between 2 and 3%. Next, and within the same varnisher, the paper passes through a set of refrigerated rollers which prevent the paper from sticking in the winder.
Metallization
This phase is probably the most critical point during the production process. Once the reeks of paper have undergone the varnishing process they are sent to the metallization area, where they are introduced one by one in order for the layer of aluminium to be applied to the paper. The pre-coated paper is then metallized directly. The varnished paper is placed in a "metallization chamber" where the layer of aluminium is applied through a vaporizing or sublimating process.
Lacquering
All metallized papers are then top coated and re-moisturized as a final process. Once the reel is placed in the lacquering machine, the metallized paper passes through corona treating that facilitates the anchorage of the lacquer on the aluminium. This corona treating acts by increasing the surface tension of the metallized surface. Once the corona process has taken place the lacquer is applied using a system of gravure, as in the varnisher, and is subsequently dried using hot air tunnels.
When the product is coloured, it is the lacquer itself that is coloured with the final colour of the product. The classic colour is gold, but from a technical point of view other colorants could be used if this were necessary. Once dry, the metallized paper passes through cooling rollers, and the water and the dorsal treatment are subsequently applied. This is to ensure that the paper has the final moisture necessary for the finished product and to maintain flatness when it is transformed into sheets or labels.
The coating protects the aluminium from damage and serves as a print receptive primer for multiple printing applications. A thin layer of lacquer is applied to give the final characteristics of the paper such as printing features, colour such as for gold susbtrates or matte / gloss finishings.
It’s the time of year when we are surrounded by colors that are bursting from the trees and hills. So with this in mind, let’s talk about the photo paper that can do justice to the season and so much more. We are, of course, talking about our stunning metallic photo paper.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Metalized Paper.
What is a Metallic Photo Print?
It’s a photo paper print with a 3D effect. There are micro-crystals within the paper that produce the “metallic” type appearance which bring out the hi-lights in the image with a pearl-like shimmer. Highlights include: sharp details, beautifully saturated colors, rich blacks for better contrast and true-to-life skin tones.
Photos with strong contrasts benefit the most from the depth of the effect of the paper. Professionals use this silver halide paper for its broad color spectrum, which gives the photos added intensity.
Saturated Fall Colors
Luckily, this time of year supplies us with rich, deep colors for landscapes. Fall is the perfect time to take advantage of this beautiful paper. The deeper and brighter the colors, the more they will pop on metallic paper.
Shine Bright Wedding Whites
So what about a lack of color? Will the photo paper still work? Absolutely, think about wedding whites. From the shoes to the dress, the whites and hi-lights will sparkle with a pearl-like finish. Since weddings are a more formal occasion, metallic photo papers will bring a new dimension to the photos. Don’t forget those detail shots of the rings and jewelry and candle light,will sparkle with a metallic paper.
Black and Whites
Don’t be afraid to experiment with black and whites. Black and whites with rich shadows and hi-lights are stunning on this photo paper. Urban shots with beautiful buildings and deep shadows are sure to make an impression. Remember, it’s about the contrast that shines through.
How do I order Metallic Photo Paper Prints?
Ordering metallic photo prints is easy. Go to photo prints on our website and choose your size and then metallic paper as your option. You’ll be able to either upload images or import them from one of your galleries. Choose to have your image be printed edge to edge, or choose the white border option to have a nice clean, classic border around the photo.
How do I display my Metallic Photo Paper Prints?
Stage your photo prints in a handmade frame: We offer dozens of framing options in various styles, materials and colors. If you like, you can even select a photo mat for your Metallic ultraHD Photo Print on Fuji Crystal Pearl paper.
Metallic papers are quite durable. They are resistant to tearing and curling. Photos printed in a metallic finish are incredibly defined and sharp, but because the metallic paper has a slight shimmer to it, it’s best framed without glass.
Ready to start your metallic photo paper project? Click HERE to get started.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Pla Shrink Film. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
Comments
Please Join Us to post.
0