Is bringing spot-UV in-house a good business move?
In today’s print industry, offering premium, high-value print embellishments is essential for Print Service Providers (PSPs) looking to differentiate their services and grow revenue. One of the most popular and impactful techniques is spot UV, which can transform ordinary print materials into eye-catching, tactile experiences. Spot UV, particularly with Duplo's DuSense solutions, is an opportunity for PSPs to offer clients added value by creating standout, high-impact print products.
This guide will explore what spot UV is, why it’s growing in popularity, and how bringing spot UV in-house with Duplo’s DDC-8000 can unlock new business opportunities for PSPs.
What is UV Coating?
Spot UV is a print embellishment technique that applies a high-gloss UV coating to specific areas of a printed piece. This allows you to highlight key design elements, such as logos or images, adding both texture and visual contrast. Unlike traditional UV coating that covers the entire surface, spot UV is applied only to selected areas, creating a sleek, professional look that grabs attention and engages multiple senses.
For PSPs, spot UV is a highly sought-after service, especially for high-end packaging, marketing materials, and other premium print applications. Clients increasingly demand print products that stand out both visually and through tactile interaction, making spot UV an invaluable addition to your portfolio.
The UV Coating Process
Duplo’s DuSense DDC-8000 delivers precision, efficiency, and innovation in spot UV printing. The process begins with a clear mask file, where black-and-white elements define the areas that will receive the UV coating. Once the sheets are fed into the machine, the DuSense system reads registration marks, automatically aligning the spot UV layer to the printed sheet with pinpoint accuracy. The DDC-8000 can apply layers from 10 to 80 microns thick, allowing for varied textures and raised effects that significantly enhance the final product.
This fully automated process, with 600 dpi inkjet heads and real-time skew correction, ensures high-precision embellishment, creating stunning results with minimal setup time. For PSPs, this means not only high-quality output but also faster production times, enabling more profitable runs.
Is bringing spot-UV in-house is a smart business move?
For PSPs, investing in Duplo’s DuSense DDC-8000 brings clear advantages. First, by handling spot UV embellishments in-house, you can eliminate outsourcing costs and gain full control over production timelines and quality. The DDC-8000’s automation, precision, and flexibility make it ideal for producing high-value jobs with minimal operator intervention, ensuring consistent output while maximizing profitability.
Additionally, Duplo’s DDC-8000 is designed for scalability. As your business grows, you can add optional modules like cold foil to further expand your offerings. This modularity makes the system future-proof, giving you the flexibility to meet evolving client demands without needing to invest in entirely new equipment.
Advantages of Duplo Spot UV
By choosing Duplo’s DuSense DDC-8000, you gain access to state-of-the-art features that enhance both the quality and efficiency of spot UV printing:
High-Precision Embellishment: The system delivers raised spot UV effects with 600 dpi resolution, ensuring sharp details and vibrant finishes.
Automation for Efficiency: Barcode readers, automated job setup, and green button technology make the process seamless and user-friendly.
Scalability: Start with basic spot UV and easily expand to cold foiling or surface treatments as your business grows.
Versatility: Capable of handling media up to 600gsm, the DDC-8000 supports a wide range of paper sizes and weights, making it perfect for both digital and offset prints.
Types of UV Coating
For PSPs, offering a range of dynamic Spot UV embellishments is an opportunity to stand out, add value, and meet evolving client needs. Duplo’s DuSense technology provides the flexibility to deliver up to ten different finishes in-house — Read our article on the full range of Spot UV Embellishments available on the DDC-8000 here.
- DuSense HoloEmboss
- DuSense Foil
- DuSense Multi Layers
- DuSense VDP
- DuSense Glitter
- DuSense Metalfx
- DuSense Spot Gloss
- DuSense x Cerlesence
- DuSense Uncoated
- DuSense Spot Matte
Tips on UV Coating Design
Whether you prefer a minimalist or a bold and dramatic design, UV coating can help you achieve that. You can incorporate different methods such as intricate and details designs produce a tactile experience or bold and contrasting designs to for a more powerful impact. Learn about the design process and get tips on successful Spot UV design from one of our customers here.
Why consider Spot-UV for your Business?
For PSPs looking to stand out in the competitive print industry, offering spot UV embellishment with Duplo’s DuSense DDC-8000 is a smart move. Not only does it meet the growing demand for high-end, tactile print products, but it also offers a powerful way to increase revenue by delivering premium services.
With the ability to handle everything from packaging to business cards, Duplo's DuSense enables PSPs to provide their clients with unique, memorable print experiences that drive engagement and brand recall - bring spot UV in-house and elevate your print capabilities.
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