aCeramic decoration …..
- overview of an emerging technology

Key points
Introduction
•    For the smaller independent business creating an impact in terms of table top presentation can be a challenge – whilst the traditional approach for ceramic ware is predominantly “white” other possibilities are now becoming available. Ceramic decoration by the application of water slide transfers (decals) plays a key role in manufacturing for table top products - it can inject life and appeal into a piece of basic tableware – as a technique it has been around for a long time but the rate of change in terms of its dependant technologies has been relatively slow. However, this rate of change is now increasing as part of the “digital” revolution. Traditional ceramic decal manufacture based on screen printing requires high levels of investment in capital equipment and inventory but this is now being replaced in certain situations by digital printing. Whilst the technology is not yet ready for large scale production there are already a number of very interesting applications some of which are outlined below. It is now possible to produce decorated ceramic products in very low volume which for customising and personalisation of tableware is a relatively under developed concept.

State of technology
•    Digital printing for ceramics uses a proprietary toner (ink) in conjunction with a laser printer – the key to the process is the control of colour transformation during the ceramic process. Using this method it is now possible to reproduce full colour images in ceramic form literally within a few days. This flexibility creates all sorts of possibilities for design and manufacture which traditionally has been time consuming and very costly in terms of set up. With the advent of the internet, images and results can be transferred accurately and rapidly between customers and suppliers which facilitates rapid prototyping both in the design and manufacture stages. The results are micro-wave and dishwasher safe.
 

Examples
•    One project which has benefitted from this technology is the recently completed refurbishment of the Centenary Lounge at Moor Street Station in the centre of Birmingham. A key part of the project was to provide customised table ware in keeping with an authentic 1930’s theme. The examples show a selection of items which were decorated using digital transfers – the quantities involved being relatively small could not have been produced economically using conventional screen printing methods. 

Summary
•    Whilst there is still some way to go to achieve the full potential of digital printing in ceramic decoration there are applications which are now proven and available on a commercial basis. As an emerging technology the process is one of constant improvement which provides an increasing number of opportunities for innovation in design and manufacture. For further information on obtaining decorated tableware contact sales@littleredhen.co.uk or telephone 01782 517100