Types of lenticular plastics

There are several types of lenticular plastics, which are mainly distinguished by the number of lenses per inch (LPI) and the angle of vision.

LPI

Plastics between 10 and 20 LPI are typically used in large format with digital printers, either by direct printing on the lenticular plastic with a UV flatbed printer or by cold lamination. The most common applications are billboards, bus shelters, panels, decoration and signane. There are also 40 LPI lenticular sheets specifically for large format, although this lens density is more common with image sizes that are a little smaller.

Plastics of 75 LPI or more, for example 100 or 150 LPI, which are purchased in pallets of 1000 sheets, are mostly used in offset or litho printing, for image sizes of 30 cm or less and large runs. Typical applications for this lenticular format are business cards, magazine covers, DVD boxes, bookmarks, coasters, magnets, brochures, notebooks, labelling and packaging. The general practice is to print directly on the plastic with UV technology, which is recommended, but offset lenticular printing without UV can also be done by using a special type of ink.

40 LPI plastics would be the first choice for image sizes ranging from 40 to 80 cm. Large runs for advertising are usually printed directly on the plastic with flatbed equipment, while shorter runs or single unit jobs, such as 3D artwork intended for exhibition in galleries, are printed very well with Epson equipment and cold lamination.

Small format digital inkjet printers are increasingly offering higher resolution and smaller droplet size, which is very good for lenticular. Small printshops and freelancers are using this type of equipment to print highly customized lenticular applications in small formats and runs. For these cases, the recommended choice is 60, 62 and 75 LPI plastics, which are purchased in single sheets.

Viewing angle

Lenticular plastics are also characterized by their viewing angle. A large viewing angle is geared towards image change effects, such as flipping, zooming, morphing, animation, etc. A small viewing angle is more suitable for 3D effects. Some lenses with an intermediate angle work well with all types of effects. Always consider the type of effect when purchasing materials. Normally, lenticular plastic manufacturers will indicate the types of effects supported on specification sheets of their materials.

How to buy lenticular plastics safely

Not all lenticular plastic manufacturers offer the same quality and service. At Imagiam, we have been working with lenticular printers and suppliers from more than 65 countries for over 20 years. We therefore have comprehensive experience in knowing which lenticular plastic manufacturers offer the best product. Our independent experts test their materials thoroughly before issuing any endorsement.

As an exclusive service, customers of our lenticular printing software receive free advice on where to buy the best materials without any middlemen, which translates into quality and savings.