What is the difference between anilox 400 or 600 inks?
Anilox is primarily classed by line density (similar to a television). There is a common misconception that anilox 400 ink will deposit more ink than one of anilox 600 but in reality the volume of the anilox cells is the only factor that determines an increase or decrease of ink deposit. This error stems from the fact that cell volume is a result of their amount. Our inks are classified according to the minimum or maximum volume that can be deposited by a 600 anilox for example. We adjust the concentration of pigments following the most popular line densities such as 400, 600 and 800. A 400 anilox ink will have less pigment than a 600 anilox ink, etc.
Why are fluorescent inks not available in 600 or 800 anilox?
The chemicals used in fluorescent inks are very different from those in regular inks and are not easily adapted to different applications. It is thus more difficult to control the concentration of pigments in this type of ink. It is recommended to use an anilox that permits a greater pigment deposit. Fluorescent inks are also more challenging to use in the application of shading or reversed text, hence a high density anilox is fairly rare.
Can I use regular ink (3000 series) to print on a direct thermal substrate?
When a client requests this type of substrate it means there is an intention of reprinting the job using a thermal transfer printer which would permit personalization of each label. If the nozzle, which often reaches temperatures of 350-400° Fahrenheit, comes in contact with previously printed material the ink might soften and obstruct the nozzle rendering it unusable for further printing. It is to prevent this that it is preferable to use an ink that is well adapted to this application. Heat resistant (HR) inks are recommended for this type of work.
Is there an advantage to using a water based flexographic ink over a U.V. flexographic ink?
The main advantage of a U.V. flexographic ink lies in the fact that this type of ink dries or hardens only in the presence of ultraviolet rays. When printing a high-density line screen with water-based ink it has a tendency of drying on the printing plate resulting in a thicker, lower quality screen than desired. On the other hand a water-based ink is better when printing solids because of its higher concentration of pigments.
Can I use your 3000 series ink on a non-porous substrate (such as polyethylene, polyester, vinyl or similar)? If so, why is there a poly series ink?
The 3000 series is a very versatile type of ink that is suitable for most label applications. This series is designed for printing shades, solids and reversed text on most substrates used by printers. If your nonporous substrate is well processed or if you have a corona system, you will obtain excellent results using this series. Just as winter tires are more suitable for our winters than 4 season tires, if this series of ink does not meet your needs you will have to use a more specialized ink.