the limits of Spot UV

ReflexBlueHorror

Active member
Hi guys, I've been compiling different artwork guidelines for Spot UV and these are the results on minimum line weights, reverse-outs and misregistration. I'm wondering what you'll make of them...


Minimum line weight: Avoid positive lines thinner than 1 mm; though it is possible to achieve 0.25mm (I found only company saying 0.1mm was possible).

Minimum reverse-outs: Avoid reverse-out lines thinner than 2mm; though it is possible to achieve a reverse out of 1mm, any thinner will risk fill-in.

Misregistration: Design with the expectation that Spot UV may misregister up to 1mm (expect the possibility of at least a 0.5mm minimum misregistration; and a 2mm maximum misregistration).


The only thing that bothers me about these is that surely they are subject to factors such as whether the Spot UV was applied inline or offline; raised or flat UV; or other ways of handling (such as pre-heating the UV?)...
 
You are correct in assuming all those parameters will vary with the technology used to create the spot pattern. In fact they will vary by orders of magnitude. You need to create a set of guidelines based on application method, otherwise the guidelines will necessarily be so vague as to be useless.
 
My sentiments exactly. Most of the guidelines would seem to relate to off-line finishing. I can't find information specifically relating to the minimum weights and misregistration of Spot UV applied inline via flexo.
 
Last edited:
I would add to those guidelines, spot UV must not be applied over a score or fold, and spot UV should not bleed and should not be closer than 5mm from trim.
 

PressWise

A 30-day Fix for Managed Chaos

As any print professional knows, printing can be managed chaos. Software that solves multiple problems and provides measurable and monetizable value has a direct impact on the bottom-line.

“We reduced order entry costs by about 40%.” Significant savings in a shop that turns about 500 jobs a month.


Learn how…….

   
Back
Top