1. On what substrate (type of surface) will you be marking: porous or non-porous? |
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On porous surfaces like paper, cardboard, wood or cloth, the ink will dry by absorbtion or penetration.On non-porous surfaces like metal, plastic, glass or waxed cardboard, the ink will dry hard, forming a deposit which sticks to the surface. |
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2. What type of mark will you need: opaque or transparent? |
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Dye inks exhibit the following characteristics: - Transparent to semi-opaque mark - Fair sunlight resistance - Excellent contrast on light-coloured surfaces -
Excellent feed-through in felt-tip markers - In general, shaking is not required before using |
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Pigmented inks exhibit the following characteristics: |
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- Opaque mark - Excellent sunlight resistance - Can be used on dark surfaces - Excellent water resistance, with no spreading - In general, shaking is required before
using |
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3. What applicator (marking equipment) will you be using? |
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- Stamp Pad - Stencil Roller - Flexographic Coder - Brush |
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4. What is the right drying time? |
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The faster the ink is required to dry, the more ink will dry on the marking equipment, and the more your equipment will have to be cleaned and re-inked. Consider using a slower drying ink, especially if you are able to speed up the drying with heat or forced air. |
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Complete the Ink Formulation Request at right so we might recommend an ink for your application. |
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