In the silicone transfer process, many customers will find that while forward transfer printing requires a layer of hot melt adhesive to be applied first, reverse printing allows thick and color paste to be applied directly onto the PET film without the need for a primer. This is because the principles and procedures of the two processes differ:
1. Printing Order
Reverse printing is a reverse printing process-the color and thick plate are printed on the PET film first, followed by the hot melt adhesive (or bonding layer). When the film is finally removed, the printed surface becomes the outer surface, resulting in a smooth, integrated finish without the need for a primer.
2. The PET film acts as a "temporary mold."
During the reverse printing process, the PET film acts as a temporary mold, helping the thick plate silicone and color paste to hold their shape until they are fully cured. Because it is printed face-down, the first layer is firmly attached to the PET film, eliminating the need for an additional primer.
3. Direct Bonding Between Layers
The first layer of color paste in reverse printing directly contacts the PET surface, providing sufficient strength after curing to support subsequent thick plate and hot melt adhesive layers. After heat pressing, the final bonding occurs between the hot melt adhesive and the fabric, not between the silicone and the PET film, eliminating the need for an additional primer.
4. Sharper Edges: The smooth surface of PET film ensures clean, sharp edges for printing, resulting in a glossy, detailed finished product.
5. Improved Process Efficiency: Because no additional primer is required, reverse printing simplifies the process and increases production efficiency. This makes it particularly suitable for thick, multi-color, and highly detailed designs.