Printing aluminum sign blanks with a flatbed

[Doc Zoom]

We are working on a bid to print 1800 aluminum sign panels. We are in the process of getting a Mimaki JFX200 flatbed and I was wondering if anyone had any experience printing traffic signs with a flatbed? How do they look, durability and best way to do it? The thought of manually applying 1800 stickers to sign blanks doesn't sound to fun!
Thanks!

 

[Aklaim]

Why not find a vendor that can silk screen them instead? With that much volume, silk screen is the way to go.

 

[greysquirrel]

Uv cure on aluminum for street signs would not be my first suggestion...long term durability not there...screen printing is best option

 

[TimToad]

What's the life expectancy of the ink your machine prints with?

 

[Turnergraphics]

Even UV screen ink on bare aluminum isn't all that durable. You have to add a catalyst and print it fairly thin. I'd go with air dry screen ink specifically for aluminum.

 

[FireSprint.com]

Digital prints won't hold up for long term. Cut vinyl or screen print is the way to go on aluminum. That's a pretty big job to have handed back to you in a few years when the reds and yellows have faded.

Even most screen inks don't last more than 2-4 years in direct sun. There are pretty specific inks that's should be used.

 

[Doc Zoom]

Vendors

Does anyone suggest a good vendor that's competitive for this?

 

[FireSprint.com]

We are a dues paying Merchant Member here and would love to bid it, but need more detail. Can you please email support@firesprint.com with size, colors, finishing options, shipping address, etc. We'll get you a quote right away.

Thanks!

 

[BIG EASY DOES IT]

Screen Print Durability using 3M products and 3M suggested screen inks is up to 10 years with screened inks. If you don't use compatible products then you are just asking for trouble.

 

[BALLPARK]

I have always been impressed with the work by FireSprint Printing. They produce high quality work and with quick turnarounds.

 

[TomZ]

If you use the Mimaki you have to use a cleaner / Primer or your ink will scratch off. You cant beat the Quailty for the print.