Issues to note when using water-based ink defoamers

Issues to note when using water-based ink defoamers

When using water-based ink defoamers, you need to pay attention to the following key issues to ensure its effectiveness and safety:

1. Choose the right defoamer

Understand the ink composition:

Before choosing a water-based ink defoamer, you need to clearly understand the components of the water-based ink used, including the properties of resin binders, surfactants, pigments and other additives.

Understand what printing process the ink will be applied to, the speed of the printing press, what the substrate material is, and the storage time of the ink.

Match the defoamer type:

Different water-based inks may require different types of defoamers. For example, for flexographic/gravure water-based printing inks, you may need to choose a defoamer with special effects.

Attention should be paid to the stability of the defoamer to avoid using unstable emulsion defoamers in high temperature environments.

2. Control the amount of addition

Add in appropriate amounts:

The amount of defoamer used has a great influence on the defoaming effect. Generally speaking, the amount of defoamer should be controlled within a certain range, such as adding 0.3%~0.8% to high-viscosity ink and 0.01%~0.3% to low-viscosity ink.

Excessive use may cause printing failures such as shrinkage and change the printing suitability of the ink; too little use may not effectively eliminate foam.

Add in stages:

The defoamer is best added twice during the ink production process: the grinding and dispersing pigment stage and the ink-forming stage of the pigment slurry with emulsion.

In the grinding and dispersing pigment stage, use a defoamer with a large anti-foaming effect; in the ink-forming stage, use a defoamer with a large foam-breaking effect.

3. Pay attention to the use conditions

Stir evenly:

Before adding the defoamer to the ink, the defoamer should be properly stirred to ensure its uniform distribution.

Some dilutable defoamers need to be diluted before use, but they should be diluted and used at any time.

Time interval:

After the defoamer is added, it takes at least 24 hours to achieve a balance between defoaming performance and shrinkage.

 performance:

Before large-scale use, it is recommended to conduct a small sample experiment to test the defoaming effect and stability of the defoamer.

4. Storage and transportation

Storage conditions:

Water-based ink defoamers should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and high temperature environment.

Avoid contact with harmful substances such as oxidants, acids, and alkalis.

Transportation safety:

During transportation, ensure that the packaging is intact to prevent leakage and breakage.

Comply with relevant transportation regulations to ensure transportation safety.

5. Other precautions

Avoid mixed use:

Do not mix water-based ink with solvent ink to avoid adverse reactions.

Regular testing:

During the printing process, the viscosity and pH value of the ink will be affected due to reasons such as water volatilization. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly test the viscosity and pH value of the ink and adjust them as needed.

Choose a reliable brand:

When purchasing water-based ink defoamers, you should choose a brand with good reputation and reputation to ensure product quality and safety.

In summary

When using water-based ink defoamers, you need to pay attention to selecting the right defoamer, controlling the amount added, paying attention to usage conditions, storage and transportation safety, and other related matters. These measures will help ensure the effectiveness and safety of water-based ink defoamers and improve printing quality and production efficiency.