Water Transfer Printing

Water transfer printing is the only coating technology that allows for the application of nearly seamless decor on very complex shapes. It is suitable for various orthopedic finishing applications (including prostheses, orthoses, etc.).

First, the desired decor is printed on a water soluble polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) film. This PVA film is carefully laid out on the water. An activating solvent is then applied on the decor which floats the decor on the surface of the water like an oil film. This pretreated piece, depending on the material employed, can now be dipped into water. The water causes the film to wrap around and adhere without creating any seams. The resulting effect of the transfer printing is also influenced by the primer because the film only provides a decorative pattern. Finally, the decor is sealed with a transparent topcoat which provides a glossy, scratch resistance surface that is easy to grip.