Flexographic printing is a popular method for printing on various substrates like paper, cardboard, plastic, and metallic films. One of the critical components of the flexographic printing process is ink. Many ink styles are available for flexographic printing, each offering unique benefits depending on the application requirements. Let’s explore some common types of ink used in flexographic printing and their advantages.
- Water-based inks. Water-based inks are comprised of environmentally friendly pigments or dyes dispersed in the water. These inks are popular for their low volatile organic compound (VOC) content, making them safe for the environment and human health. Additionally, water-based inks offer excellent color reproduction, making them suitable for high-quality printing applications. They dry quickly and are ideal for printing on absorbent substrates like paper and cardboard.
- Solvent-based inks. Solvent-based inks consist of pigments or dyes dissolved in a solvent carrier. These inks provide excellent adhesion to non-absorbent substrates like plastic and metallic films. Solvent-based inks offer fast drying times, which can increase production efficiency. However, they typically have higher VOC content compared to water-based inks, which can be a concern for environmental and health regulations.
- UV-curable inks. UV-curable inks dry instantly when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. These inks offer exceptional durability, abrasion resistance, and color vibrancy. UV-curable inks do not contain solvents, reducing VOC admissions and making them environmentally friendly options. They’re suitable for printing on various substrates, including paper, cardboard, plastic, and metal. UV-curable inks require specialized curing equipment, which can add to the initial setup costs.
- Hybrid inks. Hybrid inks combine the advantages of different ink formulations, such as water-based, solvent-based, and UV-curable inks. These inks optimize performance while minimizing the drawbacks of individual ink types. For example, a hybrid ink may offer the fast-drying properties of solvent-based inks with the environmental benefits of water-based inks. Hybrid inks provide flexibility and versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of printing applications.
In summary, the choice of ink for flexographic printing depends on various factors such as substrate type, desired print quality, environmental considerations, and production requirements. Water-based inks are environmentally friendly and offer excellent color reproduction, while solvent-based inks provide fast drying times and adhesion to non-absorbent substrates. UV curable inks offer durability and abrasion resistance, while hybrid inks combine the advantages of different ink formulations. Printers can achieve optimal results by selecting the appropriate ink type to meet their needs.
DIPCO offers a wide variety of “Quick Change” ink pan and catch tray liners designed for use with all types of ink and coating products. These products provide exceptional durability throughout press runs and lower downtime during cleanups and changeovers. For more information and a complete listing of available products, please visit dipworldwide.com.
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