Introduction Most decoration methods run into trouble the moment a part stops being flat. Screen printing needs a level surface to hold registration. Laser marking depends on a consistent focal distance across the entire print area. Inkjet struggles with depth of field on anything with real contour. Pad printing is the exception, and it's worth understanding exactly why, because that "why" is often the deciding factor when a manufacturer is choosing a marking method for a new part. The Pad...

Pad printing is one of the most versatile and precise printing methods used in manufacturing today. From medical devices and automotive components to promotional products and industrial parts, pad printing makes it possible to transfer detailed images onto irregular, curved, and textured surfaces. But not all pad printing systems are built the same. One of the most important distinctions in the industry is open ink cup vs sealed ink cup systems. Choosing the right ink delivery system can...

Why Pad Printing Still Matters Pad printing is one of the most widely used yet least understood printing processes in modern manufacturing. While many printing methods require flat, uniform surfaces, pad printing was developed specifically to transfer images onto complex, three-dimensional parts. This capability has made it a foundational technology across industries ranging from medical devices and electronics to automotive components and consumer goods. At its core, pad printing solves a...