Have you ever wondered why some packaging is not affected by fingerprints and scratches even if it gets touched by many hands? In this blog, we are going to reveal the reason behind it. It is because of the Aqueous coating which not only shields your packaging from scratches, fingerprints, and everyday wear but is a water-based coating that provides an eco-friendly solution to enrich the visible appeal of your product.
Whether you are designing food-safe packaging, crafting luxurious folding cartons, or creating durable retail boxes, AQ coating gives a versatile solution. This blog covers the fascinating world of AQ coating, exploring its kinds, benefits, limitations, and how it stacks up against UV coating.
Let’s find out why AQ coating is the move-to choice for many brands!
What is Aqueous Coating?
Aqueous coating (AQ coating) is the unsung hero of modern-day printing and packaging. It combines eco-friendliness, versatility, and practicality right into a single, water-based solution. There is no surprise why it is regularly the default choice for printers all around the globe!
This progressive coating dries quickly, paving the way for various application strategies and finishes that shape an extensive range of products. From food packaging to fast-moving consumer items. Its non-toxic composition makes it perfect for sustainable packaging solutions. At the same time, its resistance to fingerprints and scuffs guarantees your product always seems sparkling and polished.
Whether you are creating brilliant red folding cartons or durable household product packaging, AQ coating’s flexibility and potential to preserve surfaces smoothly make it a must-have choice for attaining pleasing designs that last.
Different Types Of Aqueous Coating
The aqueous coating gives numerous finishes to fit exclusive packaging needs, combining safety and fashion. Let us have a more in-depth look at the popular types of AQ coatings and their specific features:
Gloss Coating
Gloss coating affords a sparkly, alluring finish that makes packaging stand out on shelves. This type of coating is ideal for products that need a mild-reflecting shimmer. It includes the ones like UV or varnish coatings. Beyond its smooth appearance, it gives a defensive layer to keep the packaging looking fresh.
Matte Coating
For a greater modern and understated look, the matte coating reduces shine and enhances the richness of colors. It is a superb choice for minimalist packaging designs that prioritize sophistication over sparkle. This finish adds an elegant and stylish appeal to your product’s packaging.
Satin Coating
Satin coating strikes a stability among gloss and matte. It is less vibrant than gloss but still protects against fingerprints, scuffs, and scratches. This finish is right for packaging that prioritizes durability and subtle elegance over flashy appearances.
Soft Touch Coating
Soft contact coating offers an expensive experience with a velvety texture, adding a top-class revel to your packaging. It not only effectively protects the surface but also enhances the tactile enchantment. This type of coating is ideal for excessive-end or luxury products.
Dry Erase Coating
The dry-erase coating is a budget-friendly alternative to include a smooth finish for your packaging. It is not as long-lasting as complete gloss coating but it gives basic protection and is a practical opportunity for tighter budgets.
What Are The Benefits And Limitations of Aqueous Coating?
Aqueous coating gives numerous advantages that make it a popular preference for packaging and printing projects. Its durable protective layer resists scuffs, scratches, fingerprints, and dirt, making sure the packaging appears sparkling and professional even after a giant dealing with.
This coating is particularly effective for products that go through more than one handling or machine processing. It is in particular suitable for retail packaging that needs to hold an easy, polished look during transportation and display.
Remember that AQ coating is not best for surfaces that require writing except it is designed to be pencil-receptive. Also, this coating is water-based but it is not always waterproof. Products like cosmetics and perfumes, which frequently contain chemicals, can pose demanding situations for AQ coating, such as leaks.
When choosing a print coating, it’s crucial to bear in mind the precise desires of your product to make certain the nice consequences. Overall, its mixture of durability, versatility, and sleekness makes it an exceptional preference for a huge variety of packages.
The Aqueous Coating Process
The aqueous coating process involves advanced machinery that applies the coating before the printing ink is added to the sheets. This particular timing guarantees a clean and even result. It improves the general print quality. To maintain the goodness of the material, special care is taken to save from problems like warping, wrinkling, or curling of the paper during the process.
Once the coating is implemented, the sheets are dried swiftly using a heated air gadget. It permits a quick turnaround without compromising sturdiness or appearance. This efficient process provides an easy, polished look that glorifies the final
How is Aqueous Coating Dried?
The drying process of aqueous coating is both efficient and powerful, thanks to its water-based composition. As the coating is carried out, water and different risky compounds both evaporate or are absorbed into the substrate, leaving a thin, protective film behind. This film protects the surface of the paper from spots, scratches, and different imperfections, making sure the packaging stays easy and sturdy.
However, to get an even and steady finish, any excess coating needs to be carefully eliminated before drying. This step is vital to save you unevenness and to make sure that the coating maintains its defensive integrity for years.
Difference Between AQ and UV Coating
When it involves printing and packaging, each AQ (Aqueous) and UV coating are popular alternatives. Each of them has particular advantages. Choosing the right coating depends on understanding how they differ in the curing process, protective qualities, and overall blessings.
AQ Coating
Aqueous coating is a water-based choice that cures as its water-content material evaporates or is absorbed into the material. This creates a skinny layer that protects against smudges and scuffs, preserving the packaging looking clean and polished. AQ coating is known for being eco-friendly, cost-effective, and versatile, presenting multiple styles to decorate the visual appeal of your designs. It is an extremely good choice for brands that prioritize sustainability without compromising quality or aesthetics.
UV Coating
UV coating takes an extraordinary method by way of the usage of non-volatile chemical substances that harden while exposed to UV light. This technique quickly forms a durable and completely dry layer that offers amazing safety. UV coating creates a thicker, extra strong finish, making it ideal for programs that demand an extra level of sturdiness and shine.
Which Should You Choose?
AQ coating is often favored for its environmental benefits, affordability, and adaptability to a number of layout needs. On the other hand, UV coating shines (actually and figuratively!) when durability and high-gloss finishes are the priority. Understand your product’s specific wishes and goals, you can decide which coating is the proper fit.
Final Words!
Aqueous coating is a game-changer in the printing and packaging industry. It provides a clean, versatile, and visually appealing solution that enhances both the look and sturdiness of your product. From shielding against fingerprints and scratches to creating beautiful finishes, AQ coating proves why it is a favorite for brands who aim to supply standout designs. Whether you need sustainable packaging for food or a polished look for luxurious items, AQ coating provides the right balance of favor and capability. Consider your product’s particular needs, and permit AQ coating to convey your packaging thoughts to life!
