Screen printing emerges as a game-changing solution in NEV production, known for its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and precision. This innovative technology finds extensive application in windshield black borders, panoramic roof printing, interior decor, fingerprint recognition modules, and even in conductive silver paste for solar panels. Discover how screen printing meets the rigorous demands
The rapid development of the new energy vehicle (NEV) industry has driven innovations in manufacturing technologies, particularly in precision printing methods. Among these, Chenxiang Machinery stands out as a highly efficient, cost-effective, and precise solution for various applications in NEV production. With the capability to produce ultra-fine lines as narrow as 50 microns, screen printing is widely used in windshield black borders, sunroof (panoramic roof) printing, interior decoration, fingerprint recognition modules, and even conductive silver paste printing for solar panels. This technology aligns perfectly with the demands of NEV manufacturing—high precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
This article explores the key applications of screen printing in the NEV sector, highlighting its advantages and future potential.
Screen printing is a mature yet highly adaptable technology capable of depositing inks, pastes, and functional coatings onto various substrates, including glass, plastics, and metals. Its ability to achieve 50-micron line widths makes it ideal for intricate designs required in modern electric vehicles.
High Precision: Achieves fine details necessary for electronic components and aesthetic designs.
High Efficiency: Suitable for mass production with fast curing times.
Cost-Effective: Lower operational costs compared to digital or laser printing.
Material Versatility: Compatible with conductive inks, ceramics, and UV-resistant coatings.
These features make screen printing indispensable in NEV manufacturing.
The black border around a car’s windshield serves both aesthetic and functional purposes:
Blocks UV rays to protect adhesives from degradation.
Hides mounting points for a cleaner appearance.
Reduces glare for improved driver visibility.
Why Screen Printing?
Durability: Ceramic-based inks withstand extreme weather conditions.
Precision: Sharp, uniform edges without bleeding.
Efficiency: High-speed production for large-scale automotive glass.
Many NEVs feature large glass roofs for enhanced aesthetics and natural lighting. Screen printing is used to apply:
Decorative patterns (e.g., dot matrix for shading).
Conductive heating elements for defrosting.
UV-blocking layers to protect passengers.
Benefits:
Customizable designs (gradients, logos).
High adhesion to tempered glass.
Cost-efficient compared to alternative methods.
NEV interiors demand sleek, high-tech designs with integrated functionality. Screen printing enables:
Dashboard and console graphics.
Touch-sensitive panels (haptic feedback).
Anti-reflective coatings on displays.
Example:
Metallic and matte finishes for premium aesthetics.
Conductive traces for capacitive buttons.
Security and convenience features in NEVs increasingly rely on biometric sensors. Screen printing contributes by:
Printing conductive circuits for fingerprint scanners.
Creating textured surfaces for better touch response.
Advantages:
High-resolution printing ensures sensor accuracy.
Compatible with flexible substrates (for curved surfaces).
Some NEVs integrate solar roofs to extend battery life. Screen printing plays a crucial role by:
Depositing conductive silver paste to form solar cell electrodes.
Enabling thin, flexible solar films for curved surfaces.
Why It’s Ideal:
Low resistance for efficient energy transfer.
Scalable production for automotive-grade solar panels.
50-micron resolution ensures fine details in electronics and aesthetics.
Consistent repeatability for mass production.
Lower setup costs than digital/laser printing.
Reduced waste due to precise ink deposition.
High throughput for large components like windshields.
Quick drying/curing (UV, thermal) minimizes delays.
Water-based and eco-friendly inks align with NEV eco-standards.
Energy-efficient compared to laser engraving.
As NEVs evolve into smart, connected vehicles, screen printing will enable:
Printed antennas for 5G/V2X communication.
Transparent conductive films for augmented reality (AR) displays.
Energy-harvesting surfaces (solar + piezoelectric layers).
Innovations to Watch:
Nano-inks for higher conductivity.
Hybrid printing (screen + digital) for complex circuits.
Screen printing has proven to be a critical enabler in the new energy vehicle industry, offering unmatched precision, efficiency, and cost savings. From windshield borders to solar panels, its applications are vast and growing. As NEVs demand more advanced electronics and sustainable solutions, screen printing will remain a go-to technology for automakers worldwide.
By leveraging its strengths—ultra-fine detail, rapid production, and material versatility—manufacturers can meet the evolving needs of next-generation electric vehicles while maintaining competitive production costs.
Screen printing isn’t just a traditional method; it’s a driving force in the future of NEV innovation.