finishing-and-treatment-manufacturing-processes > Hydro Transfer Printing

Hydro Transfer Printing, also known as Hydro Dipping, is the process of transferring ink patterns onto a 2D or 3D components, no matter its shape.

The process begins by placing a patterned film into a container of water, water-soluble side down. An activator is then sprayed onto the back of the film, and the item to be dipped placed gently into the container at an angle, before fully submerging the component. Once the item has been submerged and the wrap covers the component, it is removed from the container, rinsed with water and a clear lacquer applied to protect the finish.

This process can be performed on almost any rigid item that is submersible in water. Hydro Transfer Dipping can be applied to a range of materials, including metal, wood, plastic and ceramic. The process is a quick way of improving the aesthetics of a component, with a wide range of effects being available. Some of the most popular finishes include wood grain (which is typically used for car interiors) marble effect, camouflage and carbon fibre effect.