Pad Printing
Pad printing can apply branding directly to the surface of a component for a longer-lasting, more precise and attractive impression.
This process uses a rubber pad to transfer ink from an etched metal plate onto the surface of a part, ideal for logos, labels and other decorative elements. Learn more about this finishing service and our capabilities at American Plastic Products (APP).
What Is Pad Printing?
Pad printing is a flexible, cost-efficient technique that transfers two-dimensional graphics onto three-dimensional parts. The process:
- Adds logos, graphics and other detailed branding with precision.
- Works on flat, curved or uneven surfaces.
- Able to print in multiple locations on the same part.
- Can be coordinated with the part’s mold design for maximum efficiency.
- Supports many ink types, including UV-cured, solvent and water-based.
It’s also a reliable solution for high and low-volume production, offering consistent results across a wide range of materials, especially plastics.
Applications for Pad Printing
This printing method is widely used across a variety of industries. APP often performs this service for:
- Consumer electronics and housings
- Home appliances
- Buttons and control panels
- Toys and sporting goods
- Automotive components
- Medical and dental equipment
- Tools, fasteners and safety labels
It’s also a common choice for rapid prototyping or branding new product lines before committing to other decoration methods.
How Pad Printing Works
Pad printing uses an indirect transfer technique to move ink from a plate to a part. Here’s how it works:
- The ink is dried or cured, often using UV light, for durability and adhesion.
- A graphic, logo or other artwork is etched into a steel plate.
- Ink is applied to the plate and collected by a silicone pad.
- The pad gently presses the ink onto the part’s surface.
This technique works well on:
- Injection-molded plastic parts
- Curved or contoured surfaces
- Textured or recessed areas
- Rigid substrates, including plastic and metal
Some materials, such as polypropylene or acetal, may require surface pretreatment to ensure strong ink adhesion.
Why Choose Pad Printing?
This direct-to-part decoration method offers several key advantages:
- Adaptability: Works across different materials, shapes and volumes.
- High Resolution: Delivers crisp, clear images, even in small formats.
- Durability: Inks are tough enough to resist UV and chemical exposure, as well as general wear.
- Material Versatility: Able to print on plastics, coated metals, ceramics and wood.
- Custom Ink Options: Offers a variety of ink types and effects based on use case.
- Cost-Effective: Minimal setup and tooling make it a great fit for multi-part runs.
Our Pad Printing Capabilities
Pad printing is a fully integrated offering at APP, available as a standalone service or paired with molding and packaging. Our services include:
- Design Support: We’ll help you adapt your artwork for optimal print quality and placement.
- Pre and Post-Treatment: We prep every part to ensure ink adhesion and durability, along with post-curing for long-lasting results.
- Supported Materials: We print on a range of plastics, including ABS, PVC and polyethylene, and can accommodate select metals, paper-based materials and non-plastic materials.
- Ink Options: One and two-color pad printing using various ink formulations and finishes.
- Equipment: We use industry-grade Tosh 90S pad printers in one and two-color configurations that deliver fast, consistent results. Learn more about the Tosh 90S.
- Max Print Size: We currently print on objects up to 3″ x 3″ x 6″ tall.
Looking to for a trusted pad printing partner?
Looking to add sharp, durable branding to your parts? Contact us today to learn more or get a quote.