How Designs Get Printed Onto Aluminum Beverage Cans
Types of Can Printing Processes
Attention grabbing, well-designed beverage cans might help your products fly off the shelves, but what does it take to get the images and text on the can in the first place? There are a number of techniques that can be used to add your branding to aluminum cans, each with different strengths and capabilities. From new processes to established industry standards, this guide will walk you through the basics of how each one works, as well as various benefits and potential drawbacks when it comes to quality, efficiency and sustainability.
Direct to Can (DTC) Printing
Direct to can printing is one of the most common printing methods available for aluminum cans. The DTC process uses rollers and plates that can be on the more expensive side to set up when compared to other methods. However, this solution does become very cost-effective at scale, making it best suited for high-volume production. If you’re looking for rapid iterating, a deep color palette, extra flexibility or need to print limited-time runs, DTC printing may not be the best solution.
Digital DTC Printing
Similar to standard DTC printing, the digital direct to can printing process prints your design directly onto the can. However, this method prints the ink directly onto cans (no rollers or plates required), which allows for highly customizable designs and fast turnaround times. Digital printing also opens up the options for more colors and dynamic images, which can help set your cans apart on the shelf.
Pressure-Sensitive Labels (PSL)
Pressure-sensitive labels are applied to the can’s surface with an adhesive backing and can be made from a variety of materials. These labels are best for small batches of cans and offer excellent customization, color, and textural detail options. However, the materials used in the process have a negative environmental impact. Decorating is limited to just the flat surface of the can, so the can neck remains undecorated.
Shrink Sleeves
For complete coverage, bold effects and striking colors, high-quality shrink sleeves are among the best options for your cans. Shrink sleeve cans have quick turnaround times and don’t require high volume to be cost-effective; however, the shrink sleeve material can contaminate the recycling process if it is not removed prior to disposal. Also, some consumers may not prefer the glossy feeling that is inherent in the shrink sleeve process.
Pre-Printed Can
Pre-printed cans are a convenient, lowest-cost solution for your beverages. Pre-printing is performed during the can manufacturing process. Because of this, a full-truckload MOQ is standard. Initial art setup is costly and can take a few months. But once the art and printing plates are ready to go, quick turnaround times are possible — sometimes as short as a few weeks. While those looking for unlimited customization are best served with a different method, pre-printed cans offer plenty of benefits for high-volume brands with less complicated designs and the need for fast results.
Wraparound Printed Film
This method is uncommon these days. It’s an older technique that uses a film that is wrapped around the can and bonded in place. Wraparound printing is similar to the PSL and shrink sleeve processes, although it lacks the modern efficiency and benefits of those newer methods.
Specialty Beverage Can Design Techniques
If you want to create a can design that truly stands out, there are a number of techniques and features that you should consider, including:
- Tactile features — Create unique textures and embossing, even Braille text
- Matte or gloss embellishment — Enhance your design with matte and gloss effects
- Photorealistic images — High-quality photorealistic images help your products shine
- 360º design — Eliminate the seamline and create eye-catching designs
- Color matching — Set your cans apart with printing services that can add any color to your design with exceptional accuracy
What Aluminate Gets Right
As a premier digital aluminum can printing company, Aluminate provides exceptional results for brands that want to set themselves apart from the competition. Our digital printing process is more sustainable than other methods, particularly PSL and shrink sleeved printing. Cutting-edge technology cuts down on turnaround times and costs while still offering the ultimate in customization. The results? Designs that put your products in the spotlight.
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