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ColorGuard Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

KC - Multi-Substrate Pad Printing Ink

1. Overview & Applications

The KC Series is an advanced, multi-functional pad printing ink engineered to bond to extremely difficult, hard-coated surfaces. It delivers high chemical resistance and exceptional surface hardness.

Applicable Substrates: Abrasion-resistant (hard-coated) PC and Acrylic, Metals, Glass, Ceramics, Melamine products, Painted surfaces, Vacuum Electroplated surfaces, Engineering plastics, and treated PP/PE.

2. Physical & Chemical Performance

Gloss Finish Matte / Flat
Adhesion (Cross-Hatch) 3M Tape Peel Test: 100% Retention
Pencil Hardness 45° angle, 200g load: 3H
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 Resistance Soaked in 5% H₂SO₄ (room temp) 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 (room temp): No abnormalities
Environmental Compliance Fully complies with EU RoHS heavy metal directives.

3. Color Series

The KC series offers 42 standard colors, including specialized high-opacity formulations and metallic finishes.

  • 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).
  • CMYK Process Colors: 801 Red, 802 Yellow, 803 Blue, 804 Black.
  • Metallic & Pearl Colors: A01 to A07 (Flash Silver, Bright Silver, Gold); B10 to B27 (Pearl Silver, Chameleon Colors, Bronze).
  • Fluorescent Colors: D-Series (Fluorescent Yellow, Red, Blue).

4. Processing Guidelines & Additives

Mixing Formula (Strict 2-Component System)

The KC ink must be used with a hardener to achieve its 3H hardness and chemical resistances.

KC Pad Printing Ink 100 Parts
E-8 Hardener 15 Parts
Thinner 20 - 30 Parts. (Use KC-100 Standard or KC-200 Slow-Dry).
Resting Time After thorough mixing, let the ink sit for 20 minutes before printing to allow initial cross-linking.
Pot Life 8 - 10 hours.

Mandatory Baking Conditions

Because the ink is formulated for rigid and hard-coated surfaces, it cannot air dry. Forced baking is required.

  • Hard-Coated PC, Acrylic, and Electroplated Parts: Bake at 70°C - 80°C for 60 to 90 minutes.
  • Metals and Glass: Bake at 130°C - 150°C for 30 minutes.

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 KC Series inks with other brands or product lines to prevent adverse chemical reactions.
Important Disclaimer: The technical information, test results, and guidance provided herein are intended as a reference. Because hard coats, metal alloys, and glass surface treatments vary greatly, users MUST conduct comprehensive small-batch reliability testing to confirm ink adhesion and chemical resistance before initiating mass production. We assume no liability for damages caused by untested applications.

Want to see commercial applications and printing examples for this multi-substrate pad printing ink?

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