In the printing and packaging industries, aqueous coating is typically the standard coating method. This is because AQ makes it possible to create unique package designs. Such kind of coating that is put to the press sheet in the printing and packaging industries is called an aqueous coating. This type of coating is water-based. In addition to providing protection against scratches, sticky fingers, scuffs, and other defects that might potentially distract from the vibrant look of the completed product, this varnish method gives the impression that the finished product "jump" off the page.

What is Aqueous Coating?

The aqueous coating, often known as AQ, is a form of varnish that is clear and based on water. It is applied to a printed object while the printing process is being carried out. In the printing and packaging industries, aqueous coating is often used as the standard coating process because it dries rapidly, is resistant to fingerprints, is helpful to the environment, and facilitates the creation of unique package designs. Aqueous Coating (AQ) may seem like something that NASA employs to get their shuttles ready for flight, but in fact, its main job is to safeguard your items as they have the potential to fly off their shelves.

Different types of aqueous coatings 

Gloss Coating

It's possible that a gloss finish is just what you're looking for if you want your product to have a more understated impression while still being protected. It is possible that UV or glossy coatings are more appropriate for anything that seems to have a more shimmering appearance when it is exposed to light. The coating that you should use if you want to make your product stand out on the shelf is this one.

Matte Coating

A matte coating, which is the opposite of a gloss coating, reduces the amount of glossiness and makes it possible for colors to display their brilliant brightness more. When it comes to designs that are fashionable and minimalist, this might be an excellent choice.  

Satin Coating

Satin coatings are not as eye-catching as other kinds of glossy coatings; yet, they still protect your product from fingerprints, scuffs, and other imperfections that might potentially take away from its beauty. In situations when you want to reap the advantages of the coating while having as little of an effect as possible on the print, this is an excellent option to consider. 

Soft Touch Coating

It is only recommended that you use this coating in situations when you want to enhance the quality of your packaging to a higher level. Because of the unique features that it has, this coating not only serves to safeguard the package, but it also seems to have a more pleasant texture to the touch. 

Dry Erase Coating

Another option to laminate that is more cost-effective offers a gloss impression that is superior to that of other coatings. Although the Dry Erase Coating option is not as strong as the full gloss option, it is still capable of doing an excellent job at a more affordable price. 

Advantages of Using an Aqueous Coating

As their name suggests, aqueous coatings are coatings that are contained inside water. The use of a water-based coating, as opposed to UV coating and finish, which are also used in other print applications, results in a coating that dries rapidly. This enables the coating to be applied in a number of ways, which allows the design to be highlighted while still being protected. 

The aqueous coating method is a well-liked option for printing, mostly due to the fact that it is both economical and kind to the environment. Because of this, it is often used in the packaging of food items and goods for the home. However, other goods, such as fragrances or cosmetics, may include compounds that have the effect of preventing the water-based AQ coating from bonding securely to the outside or inside of the container. Whether or whether your product is capable of being coated with aqueous solution is dependent upon the nature of the product. 

The Difference Between Aqueous and UV Coating

Regarding several considerations, below are the key distinctions between the two:

Composition of the Two

Water is the primary ingredient of aqueous coatings. The resins and chemicals that provide the shine and protection you want are mixed with water. However, UV coating requires the use of certain resins that can only be cured by exposure to ultraviolet light. By drying these resins with UV light, we alter their structural composition and cause them to harden.

Drying Process for Aqueous Printing

There are different mechanisms at work in the drying processes of the two. When it comes to aqueous coating, evaporation is your best bet. When water evaporates, you get the affects you want. To dry, you must ensure that it passes through a hot printing press. Additionally, there are two phases to the drying process, with the first phase completing 90% of the water drying. The second step is where all the drying takes place. What matters most for the effect you're going for is the process's airflow and temperature. Since it would take more time for water to evaporate from a thicker covering, the process would also take longer.

How to Dry a UV Coating

You may use ultraviolet light to set the UV coating. The photo initiators are activated by exposure to ultraviolet light, which aids in the coating's solidification. A long-lasting layer may be applied to your printed surface in this manner. The speed differential is the most prominent feature of aqueous curing from UV curing.

Flexibility and Its Rivals

An aqueous coating offers more flexibility as compared to the other option. You may be certain that bending a box coated with this material will not be an issue. Contrarily, UV coating has a reputation for being less pliable and more prone to problems with chipping and breaking. Almost immediately upon exposure to UV radiation, curing occurs. 

Conclusion

As you design custom boxes, our packaging dictionary may help you understand industry terminology. This is quite technical information concerning product packaging and printing. As you consider whether aqueous coating is suited for your product, it's normal to have questions. Thank goodness HT Custom Boxes to years of packaging and printing knowledge can help you choose safely. Request a free packaging and printing quotation now. Our team can design, print, and create various packaging options that protect your goods and make them stand out. 

We offer several box designs and sizes for all items. Unsure how to realize your vision? No problem! We have excellent graphic artists and designers who can assist you improve your product design with free design support. 

Contact us now to learn about our rapid turnaround, high-quality, and excellent packaging and printing services.