Practical Support From Artwork to Final Dispatch
Support starts before the first print. We help with artwork preparation, logo redraws, print area planning and colour matching so the mark suits the part, the substrate and the way the component is used. For smaller parts and curved surfaces, pad printing often gives better control than other marking methods because the silicone pad can transfer ink into tight shapes and recessed areas. That matters on medical housings, instrument bodies, connectors and control components where clarity is essential.
Our support team works with manufacturers who need repeatable results, whether the order is for a short development run or ongoing production. We also assist with adhesion test samples and trial sample runs so clients can check the mark before full release. You stay responsible for your own device compliance, but we make sure the print process is properly set up for the job at hand.
Artwork Checks and Print Area Planning
Good pad printing begins with a clean artwork file and a sensible print layout. Sanjay Dookhi handles artwork redraws, plate preparation and print area planning, while Lerato Mabunda checks sample consistency and batch control. We look at line weight, text size, spacing and placement on the component so the mark stays readable after handling, cleaning or assembly.
- Artwork Preparation for new jobs and repeat runs
- Logo Redraws for clearer lines and better transfer
- Print Area Planning for curved, small or irregular parts
- Colour Matching for practical visibility on plastic or coated surfaces
Where needed, we adjust the artwork to suit the pad, plate and ink system rather than forcing a design that will not print well.
Samples, Adhesion Checks and Curing Advice
Medical and electronic parts often need careful ink selection and drying control. We guide clients through adhesion test samples, curing method selection and trial sample runs so the chosen process matches the part material and the expected handling conditions. Silicone pads, etched plates and the right ink viscosity all play a part in how well the image transfers and cures.
For some jobs, air drying is fine. For others, heat curing or another controlled method gives better durability. Coastal humidity in Durban can affect drying times, while inland sites may face different workshop conditions. We account for that during setup and reruns, because a job that looks fine on the day can still fail if the process is not matched to the environment.
- Adhesion Test Samples for process checks before production
- Trial Sample Runs for sign-off on appearance and position
- Curing Method Selection based on ink, part material and cycle time
- Rerun Job Control for repeat batches with the same settings
Fixture Making and Machine Setup Support
The right fixture keeps each part steady so the print lands in the same position every time. Mfundo Xaba handles machine setup and fixture making for jobs that need accurate registration, especially on small housings, moulded parts and electronic assemblies. This is important where the print area is narrow or the surface is not flat.
We set up for practical production, not showpiece samples. That means checking pad size, stroke length, plate exposure and part location before the main run begins. A stable setup reduces misprints and helps keep production moving on site or through dispatch. In Westmead and New Germany, many clients need quick turnaround on repeat work and support that fits around manufacturing schedules.
Production Support Across South Africa
From Pinetown we support manufacturers across Durban, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria and Gqeberha, with local service also available in Westville, New Germany and the broader Durban industrial area. Yashika Sewpersad manages client communication and dispatch packing so finished work is packed properly for delivery or collection.
Our clients often need help with more than one stage of the job, especially when a part is being introduced into production for the first time. That can include plate exposure, plate etching, sample approval and then the repeat run. If something changes on your side, we can adjust the print plan and keep the job moving without starting from scratch.
How to Get Help From the Support Team
The easiest way to reach us is through the quote form on our contact page. Send through the part details, artwork if available, quantity, material type and any special requirements such as ink resistance, colour match or curing limits. If your component has a difficult shape, include photos or a sample so we can assess the print area properly.
PadPrinters Medical is based in Westmead, Pinetown, and our support covers Pinetown Printing Support, Durban Manufacturers, Johannesburg Supply, Pretoria Supply, Cape Town Supply, Gqeberha Supply, New Germany Support and Westville Support. Sibusiso Naicker oversees the business as Managing Director, with the production and quality team working closely to keep each job on track. Practical help matters, and so does getting the details right first time.