Ink Tack plastisol inks)

[OffsetnScreen]

Is there ever a need to reduce the tack of the ink so that it will squeegee smoothly if it is too cold or stiff or old? If so, what would you use to reduce this tack. I ask only because I have only dealt with offset oil based sheetfed inks which dry through oxidative polymerization and subsequent colors are laid down while the inks are still wet. Thanks in advance.

[ApeShirt]

There are times where you may wish to use curable reduce to thin the ink a little. If you do, be careful not to add so much as to reduce the opacity of the ink too much. Best way to work with cold, thick ink (in my opinion ) is to warm it up to room temp around 70+ degrees. And stir it or work it on the screen before printing in order to get it flowing better.

[Catspit Productions]

I agree with Greg. Maybe this video could help out too:



And maybe this one:

[OffsetnScreen]

Thanks for the reply, yes both videos were very informative in that reducers work the same way for both offset and screen print inks. I wouldnt recommend a plexiglass mixing top however, small bits and chips of plastic from the plexiglass may contaminate the ink, I would continue to use a glass for mixing. I use a triple beam balance to obtain proper match of PMS color mixes for offset inks, I will need to pass the beginner screen print stage before I attempt a pms color match. Back to the videos...thanks again.

[Catspit Productions]

You’re very welcome. Yes, there is a great chance of scraping Plexiglas into the ink if the ink handling device is sharp edged. I would think metal scoops would be more of an issue than plastic ones. I do prefer glass for mixing but some people don’t like the breakability of it.

But as you can see sometimes I use whatever to mix inks... LOL I even mix them on screen much of the time if I can. More mess means more cleanup.

I hope you enjoy the videos, good luck and we’re here when you need us.