Production printing used to mean large presses and long lead times for printing projects. But in recent decades, this has changed to include another option. Digital printing presses have transformed the printing industry, offering the ability to produce shorter-run projects in a faster and more streamlined manner.
Wondering if a digital printing press would make a great addition to your printing fleet? Here’s what you’ll need to know in order to make an informed decision:
Once you unlock the potential of a digital printing press, you’ll be empowered with new possibilities for innovation and efficiency within your printing projects.
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Digital printing presses are advanced machines that print digital-based images directly onto a variety of media. Unlike traditional printing methods, which require the creation of plates, digital printing uses electronic files, such as PDFs, to produce the desired output. This process is incredibly versatile and allows for on-demand printing with minimal setup time.
In addition, these type of presses are ideal for small to medium print runs and can handle a wide range of materials, including paper, cardstock and some even print on fabric. The technology behind digital printing has evolved significantly, offering high-quality prints with sharp details and vibrant colors. It's a game-changer for businesses that need quick turnaround times without compromising on quality.
When comparing digital printing to traditional methods, several key differences stand out. Traditional printing, also known as offset printing, involves transferring ink from a plate to a rubber sheet and then onto the printing surface. This method is cost-effective for large print runs but requires significant setup time and cost for creating custom plates.
In contrast, digital printing eliminates the need for plates, making it more economical for short to medium-sized print runs. Digital printing also allows for easy updates and modifications to the print job, offering greater project flexibility.
One of the main advantages of digital printing is its cost-effectiveness for smaller print runs. If you need a limited number of copies, digital printing is generally cheaper than traditional methods. This is because digital printing does not require the creation of plates or extensive setup, reducing both time and material costs.
However, for large-scale projects involving tens of thousands or even millions of printed pages, traditional printing is more economical. The initial setup costs are offset by the lower per-unit cost as the volume increases.
Therefore, businesses should carefully consider the size of their print job and choose the method that offers the best balance between cost and quality.
While digital printing offers many advantages, historically it has some limitations in regards to color reproduction.
However, recent advancements in digital printing technology have significantly improved color quality, making it a viable option for most projects. It's important to discuss your color needs with a skilled print professional to determine the best method for your specific requirements.
One of the standout features of digital printing is its speed and efficiency. Because there is no need for plate creation or other lengthy setup processes, digital printing jobs can be completed quickly. This makes it an excellent choice for businesses that need fast turnaround times.
Additionally, digital prints are ready for finishing almost immediately after printing, as the drying time required for traditional inks is not necessary.
Gordon Flesch Company can help you make the most of large format and digital press technology. With the assistance of our in-house Digital Production Analysts, you’ll discover the value of innovative new technology for increased productivity, automation and accuracy. Ready to take the next step? Learn how you can overcome the top five production print challenges by downloading your complimentary copy of our infographic.
