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The most important step in the hydro graphic process is the preparation of the article to be printed. Cleaning, sanding
and the appropriate bonder/primer are then applied and sanded smooth.
A base coat is applied to correspond
with the pattern to be printed. The color of the base coat controls the hue of the pattern. Such as a brown for
a woodgrain print. We can also control the contrast through the application of both the base coat and finish coat.
Unlike most other companys, Hydro Imaging has the flexibility to incorporate custom design and or graphics
into and along with the pattern or patterns suited to your needs. If it can be imagined, it can be created by Hydro
Imaging.
The pattern you have chosen has been printed on a water soluble polyvinyl film. This film
is carefully laid on top of water that is contained in a special made tank for hydrographic printing.
An
activating solvent is then applied by spray to the films pattern. As the film dissolves, it leaves the printed pattern
floating evenly on top of the water.
The object being printed can now be dipped through the pattern.
The water being displaced by the object causes the pattern to wrap around and adheres the print to the object no matter how
complex the shape. Creating a continuous finish.
The item is then rinsed to remove any residue
and then air dried.
Several coats of a catalized automotive urethane is applied. You may choose a
flat to a glass like high gloss finish. Automotive urethane finishes meets the most demanding standards for hardness,
UV resistance, chemical resistance and adhesion. It is also easily maintained.
Finally we wet sand,
buff, polish, and carefully package your item to be mailed back to you.
We have a very high standard of quality
control. Nothing is shipped that isn't absolutely perfect. What you will recieve is a part that looks like it
came straight from the factory.
Most all manufacturers use hydro graphic printing to achieve their woodgrain
and other patterns printed parts. Like that of which you would find in high-end model automobiles as well as marine
and aviation.
The possibilitys are endless of objects that can be printed as well as the hundreds
of patterns that there are to choose from.
Hydro Imaging realizes that a close tolerance is critical
when it comes to replacing printed parts. Hydro graphic printing adds virtually no thickness, making replacement
hassle free.
Please contact us for pricing or any questions you may have.
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