Why Do ID Cards Fade So Fast in UAE: 5 Proven Ways to Make ID Cards Last Longer

Is your ID card fading faster than it should? A dull, unclear card can affect your professional image in schools and offices. UAE’s extreme heat, humidity, and constant exposure to sunlight are some of the main reasons that reduce the quality of printed ID cards. Moreover, low-quality printing technology, ribbon, and consumables are also responsible for faded ID cards. Therefore, the importance of adopting retransfer printers for identity cards and consumables has risen.

In this blog, we will help you to understand how to prevent ID card fading in the high temperatures of UAE and the main reasons behind the quick fading of ID cards.

Why Do ID Cards Fade So Quickly in UAE?

• Extreme heat & UV exposure: High temperatures above 50°C and constant exposure to direct sunlight can directly affect the quality of printing. The UV radiation from sunlight can degrade dye pigments, and as a result, the photos, names, and logos may fade easily.
• Humidity and moisture damage: The high humidity and moisture levels in areas like Dubai and Abu Dhabi can affect unprotected identification card. Moisture can lead to smudging and peeling on the ID card surface. Due to humidity, the PVC cards may absorb moisture, which causes curling or bending.
• Low-quality card ribbons: Using low-quality ribbons causes color degradation when they are exposed to heat and sunlight.
• Direct-to-card printing limitations: If you use direct-to-card technology, this applies ink directly onto the card surface. As a result, the printed layer will be revealed, which makes the identity cards face UV exposure and humidity.

  To overcome these limitations, the retransfer printing technology provides better protection against UV exposure and humidity.

Direct-to-Card vs Retransfer Printing

Everything fades with time, and so do ID cards. Hence, it is essential to choose a better printing method to make sure that the print lasts longer. Here are the two types of ID card printing methods for producing professional ID cards. Understanding the main difference between these printing technologies assists you in choosing the right ID card printer for your organisation. Here, we will discuss in detail how these two printing options differ.

What is Direct-to-Card Printing

The direct-to-card printing uses heat or dye sublimation to transfer the ink directly from the ID card printer ribbon onto the card’s surface. With that, you can create text and photos in a single step. This printing method is commonly used for basic ID cards such as student IDs, employee badges, and visitor passes.

What is Retransfer Printing?

In retransfer printing, the design of the card is first printed on the film, and then the film is applied to the card. This method uses a slightly larger film that acts as a margin, which extends beyond the edge of the card. Hence, this ensures that the ID card is fully covered, which prevents fading, wearing, and abrasion.

Constant exposure to Dubai heat and humidity may cause the identification card to last only for 3 to 4 months, and then you have to replace the card. Therefore, choosing the retransfer printing option helps you keep the ID card safe from fading and other damage.

5 Proven Ways to Long-Lasting ID Cards

1. What is Direct-to-Card Printing

   If you prefer using durable identity cards that do not fade, scratch, or peel easily, the retransfer printing method is the perfect choice. The retransfer ID card printer uses a two-step process that includes printing the image on transparent film and then thermally bonding the film to the card surface. This printer offers:

   • Protecting card from UV rays and extreme heat.
   • Safeguard cards from humidity and moisture damage.
   • Prevent scratches and abrasion.

2. Add PVC Card Lamination for Extra Protection

   PVC card lamination will provide an additional protective layer, which helps to make the credentials last longer. The lamination acts as a physical shield that protects your identity cards from several environmental and mechanical factors that damage the card. This applies a protective film over the printed surface of the card using heat and pressure.

   Maintain Your Printer with Regular Cleaning

   Use the ID card printer cleaning kit at regular intervals to avoid dust in the printer. Since the hot and dusty environment of UAE might make the printer dirty, moreover, it can directly affect the print quality and durability. The cleaning kit includes cleaning cards and wipes to remove dust and ribbon residue from the printhead and rollers.

   Store and Handle ID Cards Correctly

   Investing in a high-quality identification solution, but improper handling and storage will affect the durability of ID badges. In the harsh climate of UAE, placing the cards in places where direct sunlight hits can disturb the dye layers and make the text appear less readable. Following these tips can help avoid the chances of ID card damage:

   • Always make sure to store the ID cards in shaded and temperature-controlled environments.
   • Avoid placing cards in high-heat areas such as vehicle dashboards.
   • Keep the card away from direct sunlight when not in use.

3. Use ID Card Printers with High-Quality Ribbons

   Use the ID card printers with YMCKOO ribbon that applies two layers of protective varnish over the printed surface. This protects the ID card from wear and tear. Printers with YMCKO and YMCKT include a final clear panel that protects the ID card from fading caused by sunlight.