KB - Multi-Purpose Pad & Screen Printing Ink
1. Overview & Applications
The KB Series is a highly versatile, premium ink formulated for flawless performance in both pad printing and screen printing processes. It offers exceptional color opacity, razor-sharp print definition, and robust adhesion across an incredibly wide range of difficult substrates.
Applicable Substrates: Rigid PVC, ABS, PS, Polycarbonate (PC), Acrylic (PMMA), Acrylic-painted surfaces, Electroplated aluminum, Metals (Aluminum, Tinplate, Galvanized steel, Stainless steel), Baked enamel finishes, Engineering plastics (PA66 Nylon, Epoxy castings), Eyeglass frames (CA acetate), TPE materials, select UV clear-coated surfaces, PE bottle caps, and treated/untreated PET, PP, and PE.
Primary Applications: Electronic components, appliance enclosures, packaging, metal parts, digital products, powder-coated items, membrane switches, and signage.
2. Physical & Chemical Performance
Testing Conditions: Evaluated on standard substrates using screen printing process.
| Gloss Finish | Matte / Flat |
|---|---|
| Ink Viscosity | 15,000 - 30,000 cps |
| Adhesion (Cross-Hatch) | 3M Tape Peel Test: 100% Retention |
| Pencil Hardness | 45° angle, 200g load: 1H to 2H |
| Abrasion Resistance | EF74 Eraser, 500g load, ≥ 100 rubs: No substrate exposure |
| Alcohol Resistance | Cotton swab with alcohol, 500g load, ≥ 100 rubs: No substrate exposure |
| Acid & Alkali Resistance | Soaked in 5% H₂SO₄ and 5% NaOH respectively for 8 hours: No abnormalities |
| Water Resistance | Submersed in tap water for 6 days: No abnormalities |
| Grease / Oil Resistance | Soaked in salad oil for 8 hours: No abnormalities |
| Environmental Compliance | Complies with EU EN-71 and Japan ST heavy metal standards. |
3. Color Series
The KB series includes 34 standard colors, all rigorously tested for heavy metal compliance. Pantone matching formulas are available upon request.
- Standard Solid Colors: 102 Extra White, 103 High-Density White, Yellows, Reds, Blues, Greens, 702 Extra Black, and 901 Clear Varnish Base.
- High-Opacity Series (G): G2201 Yellow, G3301 Red, G4401 Purple, G5501 Blue, etc. (Formulated for superior coverage without a white underbase).
- Metallic Colors: A01 to A07 (Flash Silver, Bright Silver, Red Gold, Cyan Gold).
- Fluorescent Colors: D-Series (Fluorescent Yellow, Orange, Red, Blue, Green, Purple).
4. Processing Guidelines & Additives
Mixing Formula (Standard Process)
Stir the ink thoroughly before use. Add 20% - 30% KB-100 Standard Thinner to achieve the desired viscosity for either pad or screen printing (Screen Mesh: 250 - 350 mesh/inch).
Standard Curing: Air dry at room temperature for 24 hours, OR force bake at 70°C for 30 minutes.
Performance Upgrade (2-Component Process)
When printing on exceptionally difficult substrates (such as untreated metals, engineering plastics, or UV clear coats), the ink must be upgraded to a reactive 2-component system:
- Add 10% B-7 Hardener to the ink mixture. This drastically improves adhesion and chemical resistance.
- Pot Life: Once the hardener is added, the ink must be used within 8 hours.
- Curing & Testing: Maximum chemical and physical performance is achieved slowly. You must wait at least 48 hours (ideally 4 to 6 days) before conducting abrasion or alcohol resistance tests.
Special Formulations: Metallic Inks
For gold and silver metallic finishes, the ink must be mixed strictly prior to use (do not store pre-mixed metallic inks). Use the following ratio by weight:
KB-901 Varnish Base (75 parts) : Metallic Powder (25 parts) : KB-100 Thinner (20 parts).
*If printing on difficult substrates, add 10% B-7 Hardener to the final mixture.
Storage & Precautions
- Store in a cool, dry place tightly sealed. Keep away from heat and open flames. Shelf life is 2 years.
- Do not intermix KB Series inks with other brands or product lines to prevent adverse chemical reactions.
Want to see commercial applications and printing examples for this multi-purpose ink?
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