What is UV Coating in Packaging?

1. The UV Coating Process

UV coating is one of the most popular finishing processes for packaging.

It is a transparent liquid containing ingredients that ensure it firmly adheres to the surface of the packaging.

• Calcium

• Carbonate

• Kaolinite

• Polyethylene

The liquid material is sprayed onto the surface using a silkscreen or roller to ensure an even coating.

After application, the wet coating is dried under ultraviolet light, and within a few seconds it is fully dry.

UV finishes are waterproof, so they are widely used to protect packaging surfaces.

UV coatings can be applied to all or only some of the surfaces of boxes.

2. What is Spot UV?

Spot UV printing uses the same liquid compound as UV coating.

The only difference is that, rather than applying the coating generously to the surface of the packaging, it is only applied to specific areas.

These may be logos, text or images.

Spot UV adds depth to packaging designs by emphasising significant features.

3. What are the typical applications of UV coating?

UV coating is a flexible method used for all kinds of paper products.

However, it is more effective with heavier and thicker paper, such as rigid set-up boxes and corrugated packaging.

UV coating is excellent at improving artwork designs and making them come alive.

This is why you will most likely find this finish on high-end packaging, as it gives it a high-quality feel.

Similarly, this coating method is increasingly being used by the e-commerce industry to strengthen their packaging during transit.

4. Types of UV coating

The look and feel you want to create for your UV-coated printed boxes will determine which of the following solutions you choose:

--Gloss UV:

As the name suggests, Gloss UV provides the most glossy finish.

It is a good choice if you want a brilliant gloss and beautiful patina.

You can also use Gloss UV coatings for spot UV printing to prevent excessive reflection (and consequently, illegibility) of the surface, as well as excessive shine.

--Matte UV

Matte finishing creates an impression of class.

You can also apply matte spot UV to parts that you want to emphasise.

Alternatively, you can choose flood protective UV, which covers the whole sheet and gives it a rich, vivid look.

However, matte UV coatings can easily become marked by fingerprints, so they might not be the best option for all products.

--Pearlescent UV

This coating gives a lustrous, pearlescent shine.

This is achieved by mixing gloss UV coats with metal flecks of various colours.

Its glossy appearance is popular for cosmetics packaging.

--Orange Peel UV

This UV coating has a raised design with a textured finish that gives it visual appeal and a special feel.

The rough texture gives your packaging a sensory appeal that is fun to experience.

5. The pros and cons of UV coating

UV coating has a number of advantages and disadvantages.

--Advantages

Bold and striking: The ultraviolet finish is vibrant and high-gloss, and can be used to make packaging or products more visually appealing and increase their perceived value.

It is also more resistant to scuffs than aqueous coatings and varnishes. UV-coated objects have fairly high abrasion resistance, but the nature of the coating also affects smudge resistance.

Fast drying: Quick drying helps to reduce lead times and make the process more efficient.

--Disadvantages

Chemical burning: UV coating is prone to chemical burning, depending on the PMS colour.

Lost quality and appearance: If the printing process is not configured correctly, the print result may be slightly defective.

Overall, UV coating gives your product's print a smooth, high-end look, making it a great option if you want to create an eye-catching first impression.