FLOCKING - Introduction

HISTORY

Flock printing is an old technique which was already in use in China around 1000 BC. In Europe it became popular during the Middle Ages, where fiber dust was attached to sticky surfaces. In 1970s with the advent of improved technologies and adhesives the flocking method became popular method for decorating. In 80s and 90s the method lost its popularity. But in last few years the flocking method is once again in demand because the flocked surfaces reduce water condensation, act as good thermal insulators.

APPLICATION:

T-shirts, packaging for perfumes, car glove box, car head liners, floor coverings, model railway-landscapes, Eye liner brush, scrubbing pads, garments, greeting cards, trophies, toys, book-covers etc.

ADVANTAGES OF FLOCKED SURFACES ARE:

·         Pleasant appearance

·         Fibered grip

·         Persistence against bounces and scratches

·         Good sliding effect on even surfaces

·         Many other specialized properties.

THEORY:

Flock printing or flocking is a printing process in which short monofilament fibers of rayon, cotton, wool or another natural or synthetic material are applied to an adhesive-coated surface. This adds a velvet or brush (suede) like texture to the surface. Since the fibers can be dyed, flocking can also add a color to a printed area.

The fibers used in the process are known as flock. They can be applied to paper, plastic, metal, rubber, wood, textiles and even glass.

The diameter of the individual flock strand is only a few thousandths of a centimeter and ranges in length from 0.05 to 5mm. The adhesive that capture the fibers must have the same flexibility and resistance to wear as the substrate. The flocking process requires a special equipment that charges the flock particles causing them to stand erect. The fibers are then propelled and anchored into the adhesive at right angles to the substrate. The application is both durable and permanent.

SUMMARY
Flocking is an alternative decorating method for achieving unusual look. It costs slightly more than a standard screen print, and for textiles, it is less expensive than embroidery. Also with the advanced state of adhesive technology nearly any material can be flocked, making it easy to add new products to the textile production capabilities. Wallpaper, greeting cards, mouse pads, book and album covers, and posters can all be flock printed. The successful use of electrostatic flocking depends on tight control over the process and the environment. Detailed production records should be kept, so the process can be repeated. Retention of production samples is also an important factor for repeat jobs, product reliability, and quality control information.