TS - Transparent Screen Printing Ink
1. Overview & Applications
The TS Series is a next-generation transparent screen printing ink formulated with advanced nano-technology. It delivers unparalleled optical clarity, excellent adhesion, and superior outdoor weather resistance.
Primary Applications: Transparent display windows on premium signage, traffic safety reflective signs, and illuminated displays.
Applicable Substrates: PVC, ABS, PC films, acrylic reflective films, treated PET films, and PET reflective sheeting. (Note: When mixed with clear varnish and metallic silver/flash powders, it creates a brilliant, sparkling metallic texture.)
2. General Printing Specifications
| Gloss Finish | High Gloss |
|---|---|
| Ink Appearance | Thick Paste (High Viscosity) |
| Coverage / Mileage | Approx. 50 square meters per kilogram (Tested with 300 mesh PET screen and 65° sharp squeegee). |
| Air Drying (25°C) | Touch Dry: 10-20 minutes. Hard Dry: 24-48 hours. |
| Forced Drying (Baking) | 70°C - 90°C for 30-60 minutes. |
| Environmental Compliance | Fully complies with EU RoHS, EN-71, and Japan ST heavy metal standards. |
3. Physical & Chemical Performance Tests
Testing Conditions: Printed on PC Film using T-12 Deep Red through a 250-mesh screen. Cured at room temperature for 7 days.
| Adhesion (Cross-Hatch) | 3M Tape Peel Test (1mm spacing): 100% Retention |
|---|---|
| Pencil Hardness | 45° angle, 200g load: ≥ 1H |
| Alcohol Resistance | Cotton swab with alcohol, 500g load, 10 rubs: No abnormalities |
| Water Resistance | Submersed in tap water for 7 days (room temp): No abnormalities |
| Flexibility (Mandrel Bend) | Bent 90° over a 20mm diameter cylinder: No cracking or abnormalities |
| Thermal Cycling | -40°C to +60°C (10 cycles): No abnormalities |
| Weatherability (QUV) | Accelerated UV weathering tester for 1,200 hours: No obvious fading |
4. Color Series
The TS series features high-purity transparent tints that allow maximum light transmission and retroreflection from underlying substrates.
- Red Tints: T-10 Bright Red, T-11 Standard Red, T-12 Deep Red, T-13 Purple-Red.
- Yellow Tints: T-20 Light Yellow, T-21 Deep Yellow, T-22 Orange.
- Blue Tints: T-30 Blue (Red Shade), T-31 Blue (Green Shade), T-32 Bright Blue.
- Other Tints: T-40 Green, T-50 Purple, T-60 Black.
- Transparent Base/Varnish: TS-70 Clear Varnish (Used to reduce color concentration and extend the ink).
5. Processing Guidelines & Precautions
- Thinner Selection: 515 (Fast-Dry), 616 (Standard), 717 (Slow-Dry). Add 10% - 20% by weight and mix thoroughly.
- Screen Mesh: Use solvent-resistant screens with 250 - 350 mesh/inch.
- Substrate Cleaning: For substrates with high levels of plasticizers or mold-release agents, wipe the surface with SS-958 Cleaning Solvent before printing. We recommend letting printed samples sit for over 10 days to verify long-term ink compatibility.
- Storage & Shelf Life: Store in a cool, dry place away from open flames. Shelf life is 2 years.
Special Process: PET Reflective Films
When printing on PET reflective films, standard solvent evaporation is not sufficient for proper bonding. You MUST add 10% TSG-Hardener to the ink mixture. Stir thoroughly. After printing, allow 2-3 days at room temperature for maximum adhesion, or bake at 70°C for 60 minutes.
*Note: Once the TSG-Hardener is added, the ink's pot life is limited to 8-10 hours.
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