Thermal Printing
What is Thermal Printing?
At Aluwood, we continuously innovate to deliver superior aesthetic finishes and high-performance durability in our aluminium floorboards. One of the cutting-edge technologies we employ is the Thermal Printing Process – a method that enhances design precision, longevity, and environmental sustainability. This advanced technique ensures high-definition finishes while maintaining the structural integrity and durability of aluminium, making it an ideal solution for modern architectural and interior applications.
Thermal Printing, also known as Sublimation Printing, is a high-temperature transfer process that embeds decorative patterns, textures, or woodgrain effects onto aluminium surfaces. Unlike traditional printing methods, which rely on surface coatings or laminates, the thermal printing process integrates the design into the aluminium itself, ensuring exceptional durability and resistance to wear.
This process involves the following key steps:
1️⃣ Base Coating Application – A specialized powder coating or primer layer is applied to the aluminium surface to ensure proper adhesion and depth of color.
2️⃣ Design Transfer Using Sublimation – A pre-printed film with the desired pattern (such as woodgrain or stone effects) is placed over the aluminium. Through heat and vacuum pressure, the ink is transformed into a gas and penetrates the coating layer.
3️⃣ Heat Curing and Sealing – The aluminium is heated at temperatures of 180–200°C, ensuring the ink embeds permanently into the coating. Once cooled, the design is fully sealed within the material, making it highly resistant to environmental factors.
Once this production stage is complete, our floorboards are then coated with 6 layers of advanced nano-technology coating to ensure extreme durability and a multitude of benefits. Learn more about the next stage here.
Replacing traditional wood, vinyl, and laminate materials with Thermal Printed Aluminium, the construction industry can take a major step toward sustainability. This innovative process reduces carbon emissions, supports recyclability, eliminates harmful chemicals, and enhances durability, making it a future-proof investment for eco-conscious projects. At Aluwood, we are committed to sustainability and eco-conscious construction. Our processes play a key role in reducing environmental impact while ensuring high-performance and long-lasting building materials. By opting for low-carbon materials, businesses can actively reduce their environmental impact and align with global net-zero construction goals.