What is Heat-Set Web Printing?
If you are a business owner utilizing print as an asset to engage with customers and clients, you’ve probably heard of several options for completing print projects. There are various common methods from digital to offset to screen printing, but perhaps you’re new to heat-set web printing. This solution provides the most economical and efficient way to produce quality materials for large-scale runs.
What Makes Heat-Set Web Printing Different from Other Print Solutions?
Web printing is a process ideal for mass production in high-volume and fast-paced print jobs. It is most common among newspaper and magazine companies, who need to print in a large capacity, but many industries can benefit from this process to elevate their business.
When it comes to web press printing, there are two distinct categories, heat-set and non-heat-set (or cold-set printing). Both presses are printed on rolls of paper that are fed into printing equipment rather than on stacks of paper. The final product printed in these capacities may look the same to the average person. The difference, however, is in the process in which print products are produced. Learn how each differs from one another.
- Cold-set printing - This is commonly used on newsprints and other non-coated paper types. Upon printing, the ink dries gradually, by evaporation and absorption, leaving a small amount of residue on the paper. Since the oils never completely dry, sometimes the ink will rub off on your hands.
- Heat-set web printing - In this process, the ink dries by running the printed paper through an oven which creates leftover waxes, resins, and pigment. The print is then passed over chilling rollers where waxes and resins cool and solidify, causing the ink to set. This process creates a cleaner, more upscale product, and residue will not transfer to your hands.
While both offer the ability to print large-scale runs, heat-set web printing has the upper hand with its quick dry time and cleaner look. By using high-quality paper, such as glossy and semi-coated, the final product delivers a professional appearance.
Benefits of Heat-set Web Printing
There are several benefits of heat-set web printing if you are looking for a print solution that delivers large-scale runs to meet your needs. Learn how this solution could work for you.
- Speed - You can expect a quick turnaround from start to finish.
- Cost-effective - With the use of paper rolls rather than precut paper, costs are cut by nearly 50%.
- Quality - Quality will not be compromised as images will appear crisper and cleaner.
- Large-scale print - The greatest benefit is the large volume of high-quality print you can accomplish.
Commonly Printed Products
While many printing projects are not utilized through heat-set web printing, there are a few products to point out that apply to this method for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. If you need print runs of over 5,000 and are looking for a higher quality in addition to a larger quantity, heat-set web printing is your best option. Here is a list of products you may benefit from having printed in this capacity to elevate your industry:
- Magazines
- Newsletters
- Catalogues
- Brochures
- Business Forms
Ready to Use Heat-Set Web Printing?
No matter the products you need to have printed on a large-scale, heat-set web printing will meet and exceed your expectations. Consider the benefits of this process and how it can deliver you a high quality, cost-effective solution with a quick turnaround time.
While most printing companies do not house the equipment for this print solution, Single Source stands out as the only professional printer in the Kansas City area to offer heat-set web printing. When you are ready to get started, Single Source is here to work with you to accomplish your print goals and grow your brand in great quantities. Contact us today to learn more!