How to Print on Plastic Cards
High-quality printed plastic cards are the cost-effective solution to better safety and streamlined operations in every business. Whether you already have a security identification system in place and you are searching for your next upgrade, or you are new to the world of ID card and safety solutions, and you are researching which assets to invest in before you get started, understanding the card printing process and the value of an in-house printer will help you to make the most informed and strategic decision for your company. Below, explore the plastic printing card process and discover all the benefits of investing in an ID card printer for your business…
What Is Plastic Card Printing?
Plastic card printing is the process of transferring images, details or enhanced security functions onto a rectangular plastic card. This process transforms a plain plastic card into a powerful tool for your business. Plastic cards can be used to create identification cards, access security cards, membership cards, visitor cards and more. This is a fully customisable system that can be tweaked and tailored to suit your individual business needs and goals seamlessly.
The shape of a typical plastic card is a standard rectangle, similar to the size and weight of commonly used cards such as credit cards. They slot effortlessly into pockets, wallets and card holders for a convenience carrying solution. You may also choose to enhance your identity card system with ID card accessories, which can add another layer of protection that brings more durability and safety to your business.
How To Print On Plastic Cards
Plastic cards that are detailed with identity markers or designed to feature branding details as well as barcodes are created using plastic card printers. Plastic card printers are specialised machines that print rectangular plastic substrates. There are two methods of plastic card printers. These are:
Thermal Transfer
A thermal transfer printer prints text or images onto a card. This process involves heating finer design details in a print head, which is then transferred via a heated film that directly fuses the ink on the ribbon with the plastic card.
Reverse Transfer Printer
Reverse transfer printing, also referred to as retransfer printing, is a high-end technology that produces crisp and clear details on a plastic card. This method uses a heated printhead and ribbon, with a clear film that is fused onto a card. This involves a slower print speed that produces high-definition printed plastic cards. The first step of printing onto film means that the end product is highly durable and resistant to fading or tampering.
Dye Sublimation Printer
Dye sublimation printing is also known as direct-to-card printing. This is a popular method where the printhead heats a printer ribbon and the ink then vaporises and bonds with the surface of a plastic card. This type of printing is ideal for producing a large quantity of printed plastic cards at a high speed. This features edge-to-edge printing for a cohesive and dependable result.
All techniques involve the same simple printing mechanisms: heating a thermal print head while in contact with a printer ribbon. Contact the team at Identity People to discuss which option will best suit your business and unique printing goals. We stock a selection of professional-grade identity card printers to deliver the ultimate security solution to your organisation.
Types of Plastic Cards
There are many options when it comes to printing and creating custom plastic cards for your business. Explore a selection of the most commonly used types of plastic cards in professional environments:
Proximity Cards
Printable and standard-sized, proximity cards feature an antenna and an electronic chip which is layered in between two thin plastic cards. This is used to interface with an access control system which grants the carrier entrance to a prohibited location.
Smart Cards
Smart cards feature an embedded chip with an accessible memory of data, and a microprocessor that can execute programs. Smart cards are used for applications where tracking and data management is key, such as a company membership program that is loaded with benefits.
Magnetic Stripe Cards
Magnetic stripe cards are ideal for organisations with access or entry systems that require contact cards for entry and exit. These can be used for a range of purposes, including time logging and employee identification. Magnetic stripe technology can also be added to other types of cards for an additional layer of security.
Plastic Card Printers for Businesses
Identity People is a leading provider of identity cards, identity card printers and security accessories for modern businesses. Explore the selection of ID card and plastic card printers, and discover blank plastic cards, ink and printer ribbons to complete your security suite. Additionally, explore ID card accessories like card holders, lanyards and reels to elevate your security offering in style.
