Ruco USA, Inc. UV Thinner (Max. Addition 1-3%) UV Letterpress Ink 010 UV 0014

Application Fields Especially designed UV curing inks for the rotation letterpress printing onto paper, cardboard and plastics made of Polypropylene (PE/PP), PVC and polystyrene. Substrates may differ in their chemical structure or method of manufacture. A test for suitability must always be carried out before printing. Antistatic, Mould Release Agents and Slip Additives may have negative effects on adhesion, and should be detected and removed prior to printing. Characteristics The highly reactive UV letterpress inks of series 010 UV show good printability and fast curing. The inks of 010 UV series can be combined with UV screen printing inks. The following processes as embossing and varnishing are possible. A special product test is recommended prior to production. The inks of the 010 UV series are constitutionally free from toxic elements and solvents. The raw materials used meet with the limits stipulated by the EEC regulation EN 71 (Safety of Toys), part 3 (Migration of Certain Elements) of December 1994. Processing Instructions Pre-treatment Pre-treatment of polyolefines (PE/PP) must be performed by CORONA-discharge in order to insure the adhesion of the UV screen printing ink to the substrate. In case of PE, surface tension needs to be at least 42 mN/m (Dynes/cm), in case of PP at least 52 mN/m (Dynes/cm). Curing Conditions The varying UV absorption of the individual colors results in a range of curing properties depending on color and opacity. All colors of the 010 UV series can be cured by the use of medium pressure mercury vapor lamps (at 120-160 W/cm). The optimum energy output is 250-300 Millijoule/cm². UV curing is followed by a 12 hour post-cure phase after which the ink film is fully cured and has its final properties. However, it must be noted, that low radiation intensity, excessive machine speeds or excessive film thickness can have a negative influence on the curing properties and adhesion. Un-cured prints are considered a hazardous waste. Therefore, it is recommended to cure misprints under the UV lamp as a matter of principle. After curing, spoilage can be disposed by conventional methods and may be incinerated without causing any difficulties. Shelf Life A shelf life of 12 months is guaranteed when storing the inks at 21ºC and in the original packing container. At higher storage temperatures the shelf life will be reduced. Precautions UV inks may cause irritations and can increase the sensitivity of the skin, possibly leading to hypersensitivity. Therefore, the use of disposable gloves and protective goggles is strongly recommended. For further information on the safety, storage and environmental aspects concerning these products please refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Additional technical information may be obtained from our staff of the Technical Application Department.