Pad printing is a precise, indirect offset printing process used to transfer 2D images onto 3D objects. A silicone pad picks up ink from an etched plate (cliché) and presses it onto a part's surface. This technique is essential for decorating small, complex, or irregular-shaped products, particularly in industries like medical devices, automotive components, electronics, promotional goods, and cosmetics.

Common Applications:

• Syringes and diagnostic housings
• Buttons, knobs, bezels
• Cosmetic closures and containers
• Consumer electronics and wearables

Explore Printcolor Pad Printing Inks
View Our Pad Printing Clichés

Production Volume

• Low volume / R&D: Manual or semi-automatic machines
• Mid to high volume: Servo-driven, automatic machines with multi-color capability

Number of Colors

• Single-color applications can be run on compact machines
• Multi-color jobs require precise part indexing or carousel systems

Part Geometry

• Flat, curved, recessed, or compound geometries
• The pad and fixture must be matched to the print area

Automation Needs

• Does the job require robotic loading? Vision alignment? Automatic pad cleaning? Ink viscosity control?

microPrint ML-350 Multi-Color Pad Printer

• A fully automatic, servo-driven pad printing system with support for up to 6 colors. Designed for high-speed, high-precision printing with advanced automation options including robotic loading, servo shuttles, and viscosity control.
• Learn More About the microPrint ML-350

microPrint LCN-131 One-Color Pad Printer

• Compact, servo-controlled pad printing machine with integrated automatic pad cleaning. Ideal for cleanroom use and tight-tolerance applications in medical and electronics sectors.
• View the microPrint LCN-131 Pad Printing Machine

• Pad Printing Pads
• Pad Printing Clichés (Plates)
• Printcolor Inks for Pad Printing

We also offer custom color matching, adhesion testing, and technical support.

What’s the difference between open ink well and closed cup pad printing?
Closed cup systems are sealed, minimizing evaporation and contamination. They’re more efficient, cleaner, and ideal for production environments.

Can pad printing be used on curved surfaces?
Yes. The silicone pad flexes to conform to curved, recessed, and irregular surfaces.

How many cycles per hour can these machines run?
Depending on the model, machines like the ML-350 can run up to 3,300 cycles per hour.

Can I automate part loading and unloading?
Yes. Pad printing machines can be configured with robotic arms, linear shuttles, or carousel systems.

Contact our team for expert guidance, equipment recommendations, or a personalized quote.

Request a Quote or call us at (714) 639-DECO