What is Dry Offset?

Dry Offset Printing

Dry Offset Explained

Dry offset printing utilizes a relief printing plate that transfers or “offsets” multiple colors to a rubber pad or blanket. The blanket then transfers an inked image to a substrate such as polypropylene drink cups.

The “dry” in dry offset, refers to the absence of water in the inking system.  This is in contrast to offset lithography where water is used to dampen and repel oil-based ink from the non-print areas of a printing plate.

The ink is cured onto the substrate using high intensity ultra-violet light. UV ink has a viscosity similar to peanut butter, depending on ingredients and temperature.

Some common products decorated using this process are: plastic beverage and dairy containers, plastic lids, cosmetic tubes, aluminum cans, industrial plastic buckets and pails.