How To Be Ink Selection of Glass In Screen Printing?2023-07-04 17:36:11

To create an ink selection for glass in screen printing, you need to consider several factors such as adhesion, opacity, durability, and compatibility with glass substrates. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you:

1. Select the appropriate ink type: Look for inks specifically designed for screen printing on glass. These inks are usually formulated with adhesion promoters to ensure good ink-to-glass bonding.

2. Consider the substrate: Glass surfaces can vary in terms of smoothness and texture. If you are printing on smooth glass, you can use standard screen printing inks. However, if the glass has a textured surface, you might need a more viscous ink that can fill in the gaps and adhere well.

3. Opt for UV-curable inks: UV-curable inks are a popular choice for screen printing on glass. These inks cure quickly when exposed to ultraviolet light, providing excellent adhesion and durability.

4. Ensure opacity and vibrancy: Glass is transparent, so if you want to achieve vibrant and opaque prints, look for inks with high opacity. Some inks are specifically formulated for glass printing to offer excellent color saturation and coverage.

5. Test compatibility: Before using any ink on a large scale, perform a compatibility test on a small area of the glass. This will help you ensure that the ink adheres properly, dries/cures correctly, and doesn't interact negatively with the glass surface.

6. Consider additional additives: Depending on your specific requirements, you may need to add certain additives to the ink. For example, if you want to create a frosted effect on the glass, you can mix a glass etching cream or additive into the ink.

7. Proper ink mixing: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper ink mixing. Use a spatula or paddle to stir the ink thoroughly, making sure all the components are well blended.

8. Adjust viscosity and mesh count: Depending on the thickness of the ink and the desired print resolution, you may need to adjust the ink viscosity and the mesh count of your screen accordingly. Thicker inks may require a lower mesh count to pass through the screen effectively.

9. Prepare the screen and print: Coat the screen with a photosensitive emulsion, expose it to your artwork, and wash out the unexposed areas. Mount the screen onto the printing press and align it with the glass surface. Apply the ink using a squeegee, ensuring even coverage and consistent pressure.

10. Cure the print: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing the ink. UV-curable inks typically require exposure to UV light for a specified duration. Make sure the ink is fully cured to ensure good adhesion and durability.

Remember to follow proper safety precautions when handling inks and chemicals, and consult the ink manufacturer's guidelines for specific recommendations and instructions.