GCM 240 Chapter Notes - Chapter 11: Anilox, Flexography, Surface Tension
29 Nov 2016
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Document Summary
The fundamental property required of ink is that it prints. Ink must possess the rheology (fluidity) to transport through the ink delivery onto the anilox surface. Ink must also have sufficient wet tack to transfer from the anilox surface onto the plate and then to the substrate. Must be the right shade and strength. Ink must be fluid on press but dries quickly after applied on the substrate. Ink must also print cleanly, adhere to the substrate, and provide the characteristics needed by customers: rheology. Flexographic inks must be fluid and low in viscosity. Ink is transported through and is in contact with various pieces of equipment in the press. Fluid, low viscosity ink reduces wear and tear on press components. Factors like metering system, substrate characteristics, press speed, and print requirements determine ideal viscosity for print: transfer. The vehicle (resins + solvents + additives) is responsible for ink transfer properties.
