Pad Printing vs. UV Marking: Adding the Perfect Finishing Touch to Your Plastic Parts

AAIMS Molding
Oct 16
2 min read

Ever wondered how logos, serial numbers, or tiny labels end up perfectly placed on plastic parts?

In manufacturing, those small details make a big difference. They don’t just make parts look complete — they help identify, organize, and trace products long after they leave the factory.

At AAIMS Molding, we use two main techniques to add those finishing touches: pad printing and UV marking. Both create professional, reliable results — but in very different ways.

Let’s take a closer look.

Pad Printing: Great for Curves and Shapes

Pad printing is a clever process that uses a soft silicone pad to transfer ink onto a part — even if that surface isn’t flat. Because the pad is flexible, it can reach over textures, edges, and shapes that other printing methods can’t handle.

You’ll often see pad printing used for:

Buttons, knobs, and control panels
Irrigation fittings and connectors
Sports or garden equipment
Parts with curved or recessed areas

Why it’s useful:

Works on almost any shape or material
Can add color and detailed designs
The print is durable and long-lasting

It’s the perfect choice for adding logos, symbols, or markings on parts where precision and visibility matter.

UV Marking: Clean, Precise, and Permanent

UV marking works a little differently. Instead of transferring ink, it uses ultraviolet light (or a UV laser) to make a permanent mark directly on the surface of the plastic. This process doesn’t add color — it subtly changes the material’s surface, creating a clean, high-contrast mark that lasts for years.

You’ll often find UV marking used for:

Serial numbers and identification codes
Product traceability and quality control
Company logos or technical information

Why it’s useful:

Permanent and fade-resistant
Fast, clean, and chemical-free
Ideal for parts that need reliable identification

While pad printing adds a visual element, UV marking focuses on function and longevity — making sure every part can be identified for life.

Two Techniques, One Goal

Feature	Pad Printing	UV Marking
Adds color	✅ Yes	❌ No
Works best on	Curved or textured parts	Flat or slightly curved parts
Type of mark	Decorative or informative	Permanent identification
Durability	High	Permanent

Both methods enhance molded parts in their own way.

Pad printing adds creativity and color, while UV marking adds precision and permanence. Together, they ensure every component looks sharp and serves its purpose.

Small Details, Big Impact

The finishing process may happen at the end of production, but it’s what gives every molded part its final identity.

These small details — the marks, logos, and labels — are what transform a molded piece into a complete, functional product ready for the world.

If you enjoyed learning about these two processes, explore our blog to read more interesting articles about plastics, manufacturing, and the world of injection molding.

Visit www.aaimsmolding.com/blog to keep discovering how everyday products come to life.

Plastic Component / Pad Printing