Ruco USA, Inc. UV Thinner (Max. Addition: 2-5 %) 985 UV Screen Printing Ink 985 UV 0014

Application Fields Universal UV screen printing ink for the printing of blow moulded objects and foils, suitable for substrates made of pre-treated polyolefines, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), PVC and other plastic types as well as for printing on paper and cardboard. 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 This high gloss UV ink series is very reactive in nature, assuring good curing and adhesion even when printing at high machine speeds. The inks of the 985 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. The inks of this series may also be used for printing on the outside of food packaging and will exhibit good solvent and water resistance after 12 hours. Processing Instructions Pre-treatment Pre-treatment of polyolefines (PE/PP) must be performed by Flame Treatment or 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). Stencils/Printing Equipment Screen printing meshes between 140-34 threads/cm and 200-34 threads/cm are suitable for printing with UV inks. The color mixing formulations are based on a 165-34 threads/cm mesh. However, test prints and approval of the color are generally recommended for the respective print jobs. The 985 UV series can be used with all screen-printing machines with screen printing stencils currently used for industrial applications. Any acrylic acid ester resistant squeegee material may be used. 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 985 UV series can be cured by the use of medium pressure mercury vapor lamps (at least 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.