Advanced  coating technology

The focus of MacDermid Autotype is the creation and application of coating technology to meet the developing needs of its customers. From its formation in 1868, this remains its driving vision.

The original Autotype process, based on a patent of Sir Joseph Swan, is defined in the Oxford English Dictionary as 'a true impress of the original'. This definition relates equally well to the company's products today, with continuous innovation to meet the changing needs of each generation. Imaging remains a core activity. Autotype products assist
the development of pre-press imaging, screen printing, digital imaging and micro replication technology.

MacDermid Autotype has extended its technical expertise to meet the needs of designers for durable and effective touch and vision interfaces on a diverse range of industrial and domestic equipment. Autotype has developed new technologies to provide state-of-the-art products for touch screens, LCD displays and control panels - core technologies for the future.

Our commitment to innovation is founded on a major research and development activity, but it is at the customer interface that the success of MacDermid Autotype is forged.

MacDermid Autotype has led innovation in screenprinting since the earliest days of screenprinting as an industrial decoration process.

MacDermid Autotype supplies a full range of products, for pre-press and stencil making and justifiably claims world leadership.

The screenprinting process is the most versatile of printing processes for industrial use. MacDermid Autotype provides screen making solutions for innumerable applications from printed circuit board imaging through high quality ceramic tableware to CD printing. Specialist coated films and emulsions are supplied under world famous brand names, such as Capillex Five Star and PLUS.

Our advanced chemical systems for processing, cleaning and reclaiming screens minimise environmental concerns. 

We continue to invest in innovative technology solutions to advance the effectiveness of the screenprinting process for each application. We have recently published a book on the theory and practice of Screen Printing. Clicking on the icon below will take you to the download site:

Capillex capillary films provide consistent high quality for
CD printing

Photograph courtesy of EMI, Swindon, UK

Low cost prototyping of membrane switches using Autotex InkJet

Photograph courtesy of C&K Switches Ltd., Kettering, UK

All facets of industry have been transformed by the introduction of computer driven technologies. MacDermid Autotype wide format ink jet media enables the creation of photo-realistic images for high quality short run graphics.

MacDermid Autotype has used its expertise in hard coating technology to produce unique coated films for imaging digitally, or by conventional screenprinting or offset printing, all of which provide exceptional durability and image clarity. These films are finding wide application as FootPrint floor graphics in high traffic areas such as retail outlets and stations, and as SIGMAGraF display and backlit graphics for exhibitions. These specialist products complement SIGMA ink jet films and papers for high quality display printing. 

Ink jet printable versions of MacDermid Autotype industrial films allow low cost proofing and prototyping of control panels and display interfaces. MacDermid Autotype has also developed coatings compatible with most currently available digital printing systems ready for the future needs of its customers.