CD and DVD Printing: Ink-Jet vs.Thermal
Posted on Thu, Oct 28, 2010 @ 05:02 PM
When duplicating CDs and DVDs printing can be accomplished in two different ways: Ink-Jet or Thermal. Ink-Jet printing sprays tiny droplets of ink onto the surface of the disc. The 
ink-jet printing process on CD\DVD\Blu-Ray discs is similar to ink-jet printing on paper. Inkjet CDs and DVDs have a special top surface coating to absorb ink droplets. Even though the plastic surface has an absorbant coating, ink-jet CDs and DVDs will smudge if they get wet.
Thermal printing works by applying heat and pressure to the surface of a CD or DVD. There is a thermal transfer ribbon that is pressed against the surface of a specialized CD or DVD while heat is applied. The disc and the resin (ink) on the ribbon move in unison past a stationary print head and the resin is bonded to the specialized surface of the CD, DVD or Blu-Ray. Each color of the thermal process is applied separately. This process results in a very crisp, shiny print that gives thermal print a photographic quality. Thermal printing is also a very durable print and is not susceptible to smudges or smearing. The finish is also water resistant.
Both methods provide a very professional look but there are some differences to be aware of as you decide which printing method to use for your CD, DVD and Blu-Ray duplication projects.
- Thermal printing is usually more expensive than high volume ink-jet printing.
- Standard ink-jet CDs and DVDs have a flat matte finish and smudge if they get wet.
- Thermal printed discs have a hi-gloss water resistant finish.
Some CD/DVD duplication companies provide either ink-jet or thermal disc printing while others offer only one type of printing. It is always a good idea to ask which printing method will be used when ordering copies of CDs and DVDs.
