What comes to mind when you hear the word "printing"? You probably picture some kind of graphical printing or textured printing in which ink is applied to a surface for aesthetic reasons or to display static data. This printing technique has innumerable uses, including business cards, clothing, packaging, and signs.

Functional printing, also known as industrial imaging or printing, is a different kind of printing that is expanding quickly but is still not being used by manufacturers. Functional printing has the ability to save labour costs, speed up production, and increase quality because of technological developments.

Functional printing: what is it?
A specific type of printing known as "functional printing" applies an image or other material to a product for purposes other than aesthetics. This could be the product's main purpose or a supporting role that aids in its operation.

What, therefore, is possible with functional printing? You can utilize a functional printing process to make components that are interactive, touchable, long-lasting, customizable, and even electrical, depending on your product and its intended usage.

Useful printing types.
There are several ways to accomplish the intended look and functionality under the general heading of functional printing.

Primary printing: Primary printing employs techniques like screen printing, inkjet, flexography, and more, much like "regular" printing. The ability to employ functional inks and technologies to improve chemical reactivity (for printed indicators), security, or durability (for overlays) is what makes a difference. 

Processes that incorporate material deposits other than ink into a product are referred to as additive manufacturing or additive imaging. Lamination, thermal image transfer, and various other techniques can be employed for this purpose.
In the reverse of additive imaging, subtractive imaging involves removing material from a product to achieve the desired shape, design, or functionality. 

Coating

For several reasons, specific parts of a product are coated with a particular substance. UV coatings, protective coatings, and textured coatings are a few examples.
What can you print on?
Industrial printing can be utilized on a wide number of substrates, including.

To guarantee the best quality, longevity, and aesthetics, it's crucial to collaborate with a skilled, operational printer due to the difficulties of printing on these materials.

Industrial printing presents numerous fascinating opportunities, whether you're looking to enhance your product or gain a competitive advantage. It might even alter your idea of what printing is capable of.