Hydrographics or HydroGraphic printing, also known as Water Transfer Printing, is a method of applying printed designs to three-dimensional objects. The hydrographic process can be used on metal, plastic, hard woods, and various other materials. In the process, the substrate piece to be printed is primed and a base coat material is applied.

A polyvinyl film ranging from camo to carbon fiber is gravure printed with the graphic image to be transferred, and is then floated on the surface of a vat of water. A chemical is sprayed on the film to dissolve it into a liquid and activate a bonding agent. The piece is then lowered into the water, through the floating ink layer, which wraps around and adheres to it. After removing the piece from the water,it is rinsed and a clear coat is applied to protect the pattern.

With multiple dippings, hydrographic printing can achieve full coverage of the part surface, including small crevices. With hydrographics, Hydro Fusion can acheive the custom look you desire. please contact us if you have a question about this process or our films.