Printing chemicals are the unsung heroes of a high-quality and stable printing process in the press industry. Spanning a wide range from fountain solutions used in offset printing to roller and blanket wash solvents, these chemicals directly impact ink transfer, drying speed, press lifetime, and scrap rates. Drawing on SIM Printing Supplies' 40+ years of sector experience, this guide covers the technical standards and selection criteria for printing chemicals.
01The Role of Fountain Solutions and pH Balance
Offset printing relies on the principle that oil and water repel each other. The fountain solution forms a thin, stable water film on the non-image areas of the plate. The heart of this process is pH and conductivity. The pH of the dampening water must be kept strictly between 4.8 and 5.5. A pH below 4.8 retards ink drying, accelerates plate wear, and increases dot gain. A pH above 5.5 causes ink emulsification and scumming on the press.
The conductivity of an ideal fountain solution should be between 800 and 1500 µS/cm. A sharp increase indicates contamination and requires immediate water refreshment.
02Roller and Blanket Wash Solvents
Ink pigments, paper dust, and calcium build up on rollers and blankets over time, degrading print quality. Wash-up solvents must dissolve these residues without damaging the rubber surfaces. The flash point is a critical safety parameter. Industrial standards recommend solvents with a flash point of 60°C or higher to minimize fire risks and ensure a safe workspace.
03EuPIA Standards and Operator Health
Sustainability and occupational safety are top priorities in modern printing. Printing chemicals compliant with European Printing Ink Association (EuPIA) standards minimize VOC emissions. SIM's entire chemical portfolio features eco-friendly formulations free of heavy metals and toxic solvents, ensuring environmental compliance.
04Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is it important to reduce alcohol (IPA) in dampening water? Isopropyl Alcohol reduces the surface tension of water, but it generates high VOC emissions and health hazards. Modern fountain solutions enable printers to reduce IPA levels to 3-5% or eliminate it entirely, delivering both cost savings and environmental compliance.
Gallery
Related Products
SIM Baskı Malzemeleri
Get a Custom Quote for Your Project
Contact us for information about our wide product range and custom color production.
