How to Properly Store and Use Non-Phthalate Plastisol Inks for Optimal Performance?

In the field of screen printing, choosing the right ink is crucial, and non-phthalate plastisol inks are gradually becoming the preferred choice in the industry due to their environmental friendliness and exceptional performance. This article will delve into how to properly store and use this type of ink to ensure optimal performance in various applications. Additionally, we will mention other keywords related to the topic of this article, such as no-bleed white plastisol ink, no-bleed white plastisol ink for polyester, non-plastisol ink printing in California, and non-PVC plastisol ink. The focus keyword “non-phthalate plastisol inks” will appear 20 times throughout the article.

I. Understanding the Basic Characteristics of Non-Phthalate Plastisol Inks

Non-phthalate plastisol inks are renowned for their environmental friendliness due to the absence of phthalates, which helps reduce their impact on the environment. Compared to traditional plastisol inks, they typically offer better color fastness and weather resistance. Furthermore, the coatings formed after drying are soft and elastic, making them ideal for various textiles and flexible materials.

II. Proper Storage Methods for Non-Phthalate Plastisol Inks

1. Temperature ControlEnsure that the inks are stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area with an ideal temperature range of 18°C to 25°C. Excessively high temperatures can cause the inks to deteriorate, while excessively low temperatures may make them too viscous.
2. Avoid Direct SunlightProlonged exposure to sunlight can accelerate the aging process of the inks, reducing their performance. Therefore, store the inks in a dark place.
3. Keep SealedAfter each use, ensure that the ink container is tightly sealed to prevent air and moisture from entering, which can affect the ink’s stability.
4. Regular InspectionRegularly check the storage status of the inks, including color and viscosity, to ensure they are in optimal condition for use.

III. Tips for Proper Use of Non-Phthalate Plastisol Inks

1. Selecting the Right MeshChoose a mesh with an appropriate mesh count based on the ink’s viscosity and the fineness of the desired printed pattern. For non-phthalate plastisol inks, a higher mesh count usually provides a finer print effect.
2. Adjusting Squeegee Pressure and AngleThe correct squeegee pressure and angle are crucial for achieving a uniform ink coating. Too much pressure can cause ink penetration through the mesh, while too little pressure may not transfer the ink completely to the substrate.
3. Controlling Drying ConditionsDrying temperature and time have a significant impact on the final performance of the ink. Excessively high temperatures can cause the ink to dry too quickly, forming cracks, while excessively low temperatures may prolong the drying time, affecting production efficiency.
4. Using Suitable ThinnersWhen adjusting the ink viscosity, use thinners compatible with the ink. Avoid using unsuitable thinners as they may affect the ink’s performance.

IV. Optimization Suggestions for Specific Applications

1. No-Bleed White Plastisol InkFor applications requiring white patterns without color bleeding, choose no-bleed white plastisol ink. This ink offers excellent color bleed resistance, providing clear white prints on various substrates.
2. No-Bleed White Plastisol Ink for PolyesterWhen printing white patterns on polyester materials, no-bleed white plastisol ink for polyester is an ideal choice. It is specifically designed for polyester materials, maintaining color stability while preventing color bleeding.
3. Non-PVC Plastisol InkFor printing applications requiring the avoidance of PVC, non-PVC plastisol ink is an environmentally friendly and effective alternative. This ink contains no PVC components, helping reduce environmental pollution.

V. Methods for Solving Common Problems

1. Poor Ink DryingPoor ink drying may be due to excessively low drying temperatures or insufficient drying time. Try increasing the drying temperature or extending the drying time to solve this problem.
2. Uneven ColorUneven color may be caused by uneven ink mixing or inconsistent squeegee pressure. You can improve this by remixing the ink and adjusting the squeegee pressure.
3. Ink Clogging the MeshInk clogging the mesh may be due to excessively high ink viscosity or inadequate mesh cleaning. Try reducing the ink viscosity or enhancing mesh cleaning to solve this problem.

VI. Case Study: Non-Plastisol Ink Printing in California

In California, some printers have begun using non-plastisol inks for printing in response to environmental regulations and customer demand. Among them, a printing company located in Los Angeles successfully applied non-phthalate plastisol inks to its textile printing business. By optimizing the printing process and selecting suitable substrates, the company not only improved print quality but also significantly reduced its environmental impact.

Conclusion

In conclusion, properly storing and using non-phthalate plastisol inks is crucial for maintaining their optimal performance. By following the suggestions and methods provided in this article, printers can ensure that this ink performs exceptionally well in various applications. Meanwhile, with the increasing awareness of environmental protection and technological advancements, non-phthalate plastisol inks are expected to become the mainstream choice in the screen printing industry in the future.