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Publication date: 12/26/2024
Even though the duratrans print process has almost entirely been replaced by inkjet printing on backlit film, it is fascinating to learn about the invention and progression of the original “duratrans’.
Duratrans material has a fascinating journey that begins in the late 1970s with an innovation by the Eastman Kodak Co. Originally devised as Endura Transparency, Kodak soon shortened it to Duratrans and trademarked it in 1982. At its core, duratrans material is a large-format backlit color transparency film, celebrated for its ability to produce vivid, eye-catching visuals for backlit displays in various settings—from airport advertisements to movie theater posters and more.
Welcome! I’m Erica Gabriel, a graphic designer and expert in large-format custom printing, including duratrans material. Building on my experience with Posterprintshop, I’ve helped countless businesses improve their visual displays with eye-catching prints. Stay with us as we further explore this material’s rich history and evolution.
Key terms for duratrans material:
– backlit film poster
– custom backlit film
– how to print on backlit film
Duratrans material is a specialized type of film used for creating backlit displays that are both vibrant and durable. The magic behind its stunning visuals lies in its composition and production process.
At the heart of duratrans material is emulsified polyester. This unique base provides the film with its strength and flexibility. Unlike standard films, the emulsified polyester ensures that the material is tear-resistant and long-lasting, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor displays.
The silver halide process is another key component in the creation of duratrans material. This traditional photographic method involves coating the polyester base with a light-sensitive emulsion containing silver halide crystals. When exposed to light, these crystals create an image with exceptional detail and clarity. The process is similar to conventional lab photography but custom for large-format applications.
One of the standout features of duratrans material is its high resolution. With a dot resolution of up to 4000 dpi, it offers best image quality in large format print media. This allows for rich color reproduction and deep contrast, ensuring that every detail of the image is crisp and clear.
In summary, duratrans material combines the durability of emulsified polyester with the precision of the silver halide process to deliver high-resolution images. This makes it the go-to choice for anyone looking to create stunning backlit displays in a variety of settings.
Now, let’s dig into how this material has evolved over the years and the wide range of applications it serves today.
The journey of duratrans material began in the late 1970s when Eastman Kodak Co. set out to revolutionize large-format backlit displays. The aim was to create a film that could deliver vibrant colors and sharp details when illuminated from behind. This led to the development of a new type of photographic transparency film, initially known as Endura Transparency.
Kodak’s innovation in the 1970s brought about a breakthrough in the advertising and display industry. By 1982, Kodak had officially trademarked the term “Duratrans” to represent their cutting-edge product. The name is a shortened version of Endura Transparency, reflecting the endurance and transparency of the material.
This new film was a game-changer. It used a silver halide process, similar to traditional photography, but was optimized for large-scale applications. The result was a film that could produce high-resolution images with remarkable color depth and contrast, perfect for backlit displays.
Over time, the success of Kodak’s innovation led to the term “duratrans” becoming genericized. It evolved into a common descriptor for various large-format backlit graphic substrates, regardless of the manufacturer. Today, duratrans material is used to describe a range of backlit films, imaged using both photochemical and modern inkjet methods.
Despite the generic use of the term, the original duratrans film remains a standard in the industry for its superior quality and performance. It continues to be the material of choice for those seeking the highest quality in backlit displays, from promotional advertising to fine art and theatrical backdrops.
The evolution of duratrans material from a Kodak innovation to a generic term highlights its impact on the display industry. As we explore the various applications of this versatile material, it’s clear that its legacy continues to shine brightly in countless settings worldwide.
The versatility of duratrans material makes it a popular choice across a wide range of applications. Its ability to produce vibrant colors and sharp images when backlit makes it ideal for several uses. Let’s explore some of the key applications:
Duratrans material is renowned for its use in backlit graphics. These are the bright, eye-catching displays you often see in lightboxes. Businesses prefer backlit graphics because they make colors pop and images stand out, capturing the attention of passersby. Whether it’s a storefront sign or an airport advertisement, these graphics are designed to shine.
In advertising, duratrans material is a staple for promotional displays. Shopping malls, airports, and retail stores use duratrans to create stunning visuals that promote products and services. The material’s ability to display high-resolution images with rich colors makes it perfect for conveying advertising messages that demand attention.
The use of duratrans material isn’t limited to commercial settings. It also plays a significant role in the fine art world. Artists and galleries use duratrans to create illuminated art pieces that highlight intricate details and vibrant colors. The high resolution and color depth of duratrans make it a preferred choice for art installations that need to impress a discerning audience.
Another fascinating application is in the creation of translites, which are large backdrops used in television and theater. These backdrops, sometimes stretching over 100 feet, are crafted using duratrans material to create realistic backgrounds. In TV studios, they often feature cityscapes or abstract designs that improve the on-screen environment. In theaters, they add depth and realism to stage settings.
Duratrans material continues to be a choice for anyone looking to create impactful, illuminated displays. Whether for commercial, artistic, or theatrical purposes, its ability to deliver stunning visuals ensures its place in the spotlight, even true Duratrans prints are now quite rare.
When it comes to creating stunning, illuminated displays, duratrans is often the term used although people are actually now ordering backlit film. Let’s explain:
Backlit film is another popular material for lightbox displays. While it shares the same purpose as duratrans material—to improve images with backlighting—there are some key differences. Backlit film is typically used for applications where cost is a major factor. It’s a more budget-friendly option compared to duratrans.
Key Differences:
– Color Saturation: Duratranstypically had slightly more vibrant colors, thanks to its unique emulsified polyester and silver halide process.
– Resolution: Duratrans originally gave the impression of higher resolution, as the print is achieved in a ‘photo development’ type of process vs inkjet printing
Today, almost all projects calling for “duratrans” are actually using inkjet backlit film, which is what we use at Posterprintshop. This is because recent advancements in ink colors and print density, along with backlit film quality, have made it so that high quality backlit film prints are practically indistinguishable from duratrans prints, at a fraction of the cost. Duratrans prints are quite expensive by comparision because of the labor and materials needed to achieve a true “photo development’ type of Duratrans print.
The real strength of duratrans material lies in its superior color saturation and black opacity. These qualities ensure that images are not only vivid but also maintain their integrity under various lighting conditions. This makes duratrans the industry standard for applications in upscale retail, airports, and other public venues.
While alternatives like backlit film and DeepColor Inkjet have their place, especially in budget-conscious projects, duratrans remains best for those who prioritize quality and visual impact. Its ability to produce the richest colors and deepest contrasts makes it the preferred choice for high-end installations and discerning clients.
For anyone looking to create displays that truly stand out, duratrans material offers the best combination of quality and performance.
Duratrans material is crafted from emulsified polyester. This unique composition allows it to achieve exceptional clarity and color richness. The process involves a silver halide coating that reacts to laser exposure, creating images with remarkable detail and depth. This combination is what sets duratrans apart in backlit graphics.
Duratrans material typically measures between 7-8 mils in thickness. To put this in perspective, it’s thicker than standard paper but thinner than a typical credit card. This thickness strikes a balance between durability and flexibility, making it ideal for various display needs. It ensures the material is sturdy enough to withstand handling while still being easy to install in lightboxes.
The versatility of duratrans material makes it a popular choice for a wide range of settings. You’ll frequently find it illuminating displays in airports, where clear and vibrant visuals are essential for catching the attention of busy travelers. Hotels also use duratrans for neat promotional displays that improve their brand image. Additionally, retail stores leverage this material to create eye-catching storefronts and in-store promotions that draw customers in with vivid, high-resolution images.
These applications highlight the adaptability and superior quality of duratrans, making it the preferred option for businesses looking to make a lasting visual impact.
At Posterprintshop, we pride ourselves on delivering custom printing solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and speed. Whether you’re looking to create stunning backlit displays with our backlit film or explore other printing options, we have you covered.
Our commitment to excellence is reflected in every step of our process. We use the finest materials and advanced printing techniques to ensure vibrant colors, sharp details, and long-lasting prints. Our backlit film stands out for its exceptional clarity and color richness, making it ideal for promotional displays, fine art, and more.
One of our key advantages is our fast turnaround. We understand that timing is crucial for your projects, so we offer quick production times without compromising on quality. This means you can rely on us to deliver your custom prints promptly, ensuring your displays are ready when you need them. We’re one of the largest providers of backlit film printing in the industry and one of the only printers that can turnaround a large backlit film order the same day. In a rush? Place your order before noon Pacific and choose overnight shipping to get your backlit film order tomorrow!
Explore our backlit film services to find how Posterprintshop can bring your visual ideas to life. With our expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, we’re here to help you make a lasting impression with high-quality, custom printing solutions.
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