Introduction:
Flexography, or flexo for short, is a printing process that involves the use of a flexible printing plate made of rubber or polymer to transfer ink onto a substrate. In this article, we will discuss the importance of viscosity in flexo ink and its ideal range for optimal printing results.
What is Viscosity and Why Does it Matter in Flexo Ink?
Viscosity refers to the thickness or resistance to flow of a liquid. In the case of flexo inks, viscosity plays a crucial role in determining the quality of the printed image. The article discusses the ideal viscosity range for flexo ink and factors that impact the quality of the print.
Factors Affecting Ideal Viscosity Range:
The ideal viscosity range for flexo ink depends on various factors including:
Substrate Type:
A lower viscosity ink is better suited for printing on porous substrates such as paper or cardboard, while a higher viscosity ink is better suited for printing on non-porous substrates such as plastics or metal.
Printing Plate Type:
Different types of plates have different requirements for ink viscosity in order to achieve optimal printing results. For example, plates with shallow relief require a lower viscosity ink, while plates with deeper relief require a higher viscosity ink.
Printing Speed:
Higher printing speeds require a lower viscosity ink in order to ensure smooth ink transfer and prevent issues such as ink spitting or splattering.
Viscosity Range of Flexo Ink:
The viscosity of flexo ink is typically between 10 and 1000 cP, with most inks falling within the range of 20 to 300 cP. The ideal viscosity range for a specific job depends on the factors mentioned above and needs to be adjusted accordingly.
Monitoring and Adjusting Ink Viscosity:
The viscosity of flexo ink can change over time due to factors such as evaporation, absorption, and temperature fluctuations. Regular monitoring and adjustment of ink viscosity is essential to ensure consistent and high-quality printing results.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the viscosity range of flexo ink plays a crucial role in determining the quality of the printed image. Factors such as substrate type, printing plate type, and printing speed all play a role in determining the ideal viscosity range for a particular printing job. Regular monitoring and adjustment of ink viscosity is essential to ensure consistent and high-quality printing results.
If you want to know more about flexo ink and its viscosity range, contact IRANSHORAKA MFG. Our team of experts can provide you with further information and help you choose the best flexo ink for your printing needs.
