6 Main Reasons to Choose Water Transfer Printing as Surface Decoration Technique for Automotive Interiors

2023-05-25

The automotive industry has been growing in recent years at a blistering speed. Every car manufacturer is keeping their eyes for the latest and affordable technologies that will bring their products to the top of the list in modern and futuristic cars. As an OEM manufacturer you should always be looking for the best surface decoration options available in the market for your customers. However there are too many surface decoration techniques for you to choose from and it might be hard to know which one is more suitable. Come explore with us your options.

Surface Decoration Technique for Automotive Interiors

Different Surface Decoration Technique

As a manufacturer of water transfer printing film, we are familiar with the different surface decoration techniques available in the market. Some popular techniques include:

Embossing:

This technique involves pressing a design into the surface of a material such as leather, vinyl or fabric using a heated die. This creates a raised, textured effect that can add depth and interest to automotive interior surfaces.

Laser cutting:

Laser cutting is a precise technique that can be used to create intricate designs and patterns on automotive interior surfaces. This technique involves using a laser to cut through the material, leaving behind a precise cut edge.

Printing:

Printing is a versatile technique that allows for a wide range of designs and colors to be applied to automotive interior surfaces. Printing can be done using a variety of methods such as screen printing, digital printing, or transfer printing.

Vacuum forming:

Vacuum forming is a technique used to create 3D shapes from flat sheets of material. It involves heating the material until it becomes pliable and then using a vacuum to pull the material into a mold. This technique can be used to create complex shapes for automotive interior components such as instrument panels or door panels.

Stitching:

Stitching is a classic technique used for automotive interiors, particularly on leather or vinyl surfaces. It involves using a needle and thread to create decorative patterns or seams on the surface of the material.

Hydrographics:

Hydrographics, also known as water transfer printing, is a technique that involves applying a design to a three-dimensional object using a water-soluble film. The film is printed with the desired design, and then placed on the surface of the object. When the object is dipped in water, the film dissolves, leaving the design behind on the surface of the object.

Upholstery:

Upholstery is referred to as the work related to furniture in vehicles, especially covering interior parts of the vehicle, including seats, doors, carpets, and boot spaces with padding and fabric or leather covers.

Foil stamping:

Foil stamping is a technique that involves using a heated die to transfer a metallic or colored foil onto the surface of a material such as leather or vinyl. This technique can be used to add a metallic or reflective finish to automotive interior surfaces.

Now that you know your options we want to give you 6 main reasons why you should consider Water Transfer Printing as your next decoration technique for automotive interiors.

6 Main Reasons to Choose Water Transfer Printing

1. Versatility

Water transfer printing can be used on a variety of materials, including plastics, metals, and woods. This makes it a versatile technique for customizing different interior components of a vehicle, such as dashboards, center consoles, door panels, and more. Moreover, hydrography is capable of creating 3D products with high, and sharp angle surfaces. Complex non-flat surfaces, arc/round shape, and products that need decoration on the side.

2. Customization

With water transfer printing, it is possible to create a wide range of designs and patterns, including wood grain, marble, carbon fiber, and more. This means that automotive interiors can be customized to suit the preferences of individual customers, making each vehicle unique.

3. Durability

The water transfer printing process creates a durable finish that is resistant to scratches, fading, and other types of wear and tear. This makes it a good choice for high-traffic areas of the vehicle, such as the dashboard or door panels.

4. Cost-effective

Compared to other decorative techniques such as painting or upholstery, water transfer printing can be a cost-effective solution for customizing automotive interiors. It can also be more time-efficient than other techniques, which can result in lower labor costs.

5. Easy maintenance

Water transfer printing creates a smooth, non-porous surface that is easy to clean and maintain. This is especially important in automotive interiors, where spills and other messes are common.

6. Color Quality and Design

The quality of the color of hydrographic films is very stable and it won’t fade. Moreover, it is possible to work closely with professional designers to match the exact color and to create the design the customers have in mind. They also advise the customer according to market trends.

Due to the increasing presence of Water Transfer Printing in the automotive industry, OEM manufacturers are willing to spend more on quality hydrographic films to satisfy client needs for car parts and accessories.

What Sets YHT Apart

Not only for the quality of the films, and the many renowned brands in the United States, Europe, Latin America and Asia, that YHT have worked closely with, but also because of our extensive after-care service, production and sampling.

After-care service

YHT offers a customized and extensive after-care service, whether customers have questions about the best way to do water transfer printing, the film didn’t work the way they wanted or some parts have flaws after the process, YHT supports clients all the way until they are satisfied with the final product. By providing custom equipment and training solutions tailored to your business requirements, YHT maintains a close business relationship with customers.
Production

YHT is able to support mass production since it has very professional equipment and technical processes, but even if the customer needs a smaller MOQ, YHT, as manufacturer, can provide it. Several variables will affect overall productivity, automating certain aspects of the production line allow us to work with precision and faster speed.
Sampling

Besides providing high technology for the water transfer printing process, we are able to send samples to our clients so that they approve before the manufacturing process begins. Saving time and possible extra costs along the way.