Hydrographics is a surface decorating technology that allows you to apply complex designs and artwork to 3-dimensional items. The process is also called “Water Transfer Printing” and “Hydro Dipping”. Water Transfer Printing film is made out of a water-soluble material called PVA (polyvinyl alcohol).

The biggest benefit of Hydrographics is that it provides a cost-effective way to apply complex artwork onto 3-dimensional objects. For example, in the firearms industry, instead of using stencils, Hydrographics is used to apply complex camouflage patterns onto rifle stocks, furniture kits, and other components. In this instance, Hydrographics provides a more affordable and repeatable solution.

It is very time and labor-intensive to stencil complex artwork onto a firearm. Therefore, this option is too costly for many manufacturers and small businesses. Additionally, there are only so many details that you can add when using a stenciling technique. It is going to be near impossible for someone to stencil a high-definition “sticks and leaves” camouflage. Thus, Hydrographics provides an easier, more affordable, more dynamic, and higher quality finish than stenciling can provide.

Therefore, if you want to apply a pattern to a 3-dimensional object. This is where hydrographics shines.

A wide variety of flat or 3-D shapes and manufacturing materials (plastics, metals, glass, wood, etc.) can be Hydrodipped. Items which are to be hydrodipped will be submerged and rinsed in water as part of the printing process. The item also needs to have a hard surface for the film to apply. So no electronics and no cuddly toys. However, electronic casings (with the electronics removed) such as phone and console cases can be hydrodipped. 'If it can be painted and will fit into our tank, then it can be dipped''

Firearm manufacturers demand the highest standards of quality and durability. Many parts that are decorated using our materials spend most their lives in direct sun exposure. The inks used to print the patterns are developed and tested using Xenon Arc testing, ensuring the coating retains its color and integrity in prolonged sun exposure and other environment conditions. The clear coat is a Matte or Gloss CERAKOTE® Clear, which is also designed to withstand nature and time.

CERAKOTE® Clear is used for the final coat in all of our Hydrographics projects. It provides extreme scratch and UV resistance; available in both matte and gloss.

If the process is done correctly, parts decorated using Water Transfer Printing will withstand temperatures up to 325° F. This means that engine valve covers, intake manifolds, and plastic engine covers can all be decorated and will withstand the residual heat coming from the car’s engine.

It all depends on the complexity of the item being processed. For example, a dashboard for a pick-up truck can take approximately 30-60 minutes of total “hands-on” time to complete (this does not include unattended time like drying/curing).

All items need to be properly prepped and painting before Hydro Dipping; this allows the ink from the film to fuse with the painted surface. Items must be clean, dent free, without cracks or any other type of damage.

The CERAKOTE® Clear that is used is tack free after 60 mins allowing for light handling, it takes 24 hours to cure to the point of being able to be shipped and put to use; it will continue to cure and be fully cured after 5 days.

Yes

• Package your items securely. If you are shipping firearms, ensure they are unloaded with no ammo in the shipment.

• We will send you a work order form to complete and print, this will go in your box. This will include your packing slip of items and insurance.

• We will send you a shipping label for your item as well as a return label when complete with your work.

We offer 10% off on all our services. A copy of your military ID, Departmental Credentials, VA Card, or your DD214 will be needed for the discount.