Are there any considerations specific to printing with water-based ink on corrugated paper
Date: Aug 03 2023 From: Star Color
Yes, there are several considerations specific to printing with water-based ink on corrugated paper. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
1.Ink Absorption: Corrugated paper has a porous surface that can absorb water-based inks quickly. This can lead to reduced color intensity and sharpness compared to printing on non-absorbent surfaces. It's important to test the ink and substrate combination beforehand to achieve the desired print quality.
2.Drying Time: Water-based inks generally require more time to dry compared to solvent-based inks. Corrugated paper's absorbent nature can further increase the drying time. Adequate drying time is crucial to prevent smudging and ensure proper adhesion of the ink to the substrate.
3.Ink Compatibility: Not all water-based inks are suitable for printing on corrugated paper. Some inks may not adhere well or may exhibit poor rub resistance on this substrate. It's advisable to consult with ink manufacturers or suppliers to select inks specifically designed for printing on corrugated paper.
4.Coating and Priming: Depending on the desired print quality and ink absorption control, applying a coating or primer to the corrugated paper surface may be necessary. These additional layers can help improve ink adhesion, color vibrancy, and reduce ink bleed.
5.Substrate Preparation: Proper preparation of the corrugated paper can contribute to better printing results. Ensure that the paper surface is clean, free from dust, debris, and any oily residues that might interfere with ink adhesion. Additionally, controlling the moisture content of the substrate is important to minimize ink absorption variations.
6.Ink Thickness and Viscosity: Adjusting the ink thickness and viscosity can help optimize the printing process. Thicker inks can reduce ink absorption and improve color density, while controlling the viscosity ensures smooth ink flow and consistent print results.
7.Environmental Considerations: Water-based inks are generally considered more environmentally friendly compared to solvent-based inks. However, they may require additional precautions to prevent water damage to the corrugated paper, such as maintaining controlled printing conditions with adequate temperature and humidity levels.
It's always recommended to consult with ink and printing equipment manufacturers, as well as conduct thorough testing, to determine the best practices and settings for your specific printing application on corrugated paper with water-based inks.