Glossary

The PRINTING United Alliance Glossary serves as an excellent industry terminology resource. It is the language by which we all communicate. Without it, universal understanding would be impossible.

To keep our constituents well informed about changes to the increasingly complex industry terminology, PRINTING United Alliance has developed this glossary of terms. Definitions are for general reference only. Usage may vary between companies, individuals, or national and country customs. The information presented is as accurate as the authors and editors can ascertain and PRINTING United Alliance assumes no responsibility for the use of information presented herein.
  • Backing
    Typically a non-woven material applied beneath material being sewn to increase fabric stability and support stitches.
  • Backing adhesive
    An adhesive applied to the back surface of a membrane switch, 0.002 to 0.005 thick, to attach it to the application surface.
  • Backing sheet (carrier)
    Support aid such as the plastic or paper support sheet of knife-cut stencil film, indirect photoscreen stencil film, camera film, and the support sheet of pressure sensitive laminations.
  • Backing up
    Printing the reverse side of a sheet that has already been printed on one side.
  • Film backing
    (1) The transparent sheet which carries the sensitized emulsion layer of photographic films; (2) The plastic or paper sheet which carries the photosensitive emulsion layer of a photographic screen printing stencil film, or the transparent plastic or semi-transparent paper sheet on which knife-cut stencil film is temporarily mounted.
  • Fusible backing
    Backing material that adheres to a substrate under heat and pressure to which the glue side of the backing is applied.