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Water Based Ink

Water Based Ink

What Is Water Based Ink?

 

 

Water-based ink is an ink that is made with water as its solvent base. It is different from other types of ink, such as solvent-based or oil-based inks, which use chemicals as their solvent base. Water-based ink is commonly used in the printing industry for a variety of applications, including screen printing, digital printing, and more.

 

Advantages of Water Based Ink

Environmentally friendly

Water-based inks have a considerably lower impact on the environment than solvent-based inks. They do not contain harmful chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (vocs) that can harm the environment and human health. They also produce less waste and can be easily disposed of.

Safe for use

Water-based inks are safer to use, both for the workers and the end-users. They have no unpleasant odor and do not emit harmful fumes, making them ideal for use in indoor spaces. They are also non-flammable, reducing the risk of fire hazards.

High-quality prints

Water-based inks can produce high-quality prints on a wide range of substrates. They provide sharper and brighter colors compared to solvent-based inks. They can produce detailed images and smooth gradients with high color accuracy.

Low maintenance

Water-based inks do not require a lot of maintenance or special equipment. They can be easily cleaned up using water and do not leave any residue on printing equipment. This reduces downtime and saves on maintenance costs.

 

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Why Choose Us?
 

High quality: Our products are manufactured or executed to very high standards, using the finest materials and manufacturing processes.

 

Rich experience: Dedicated to strict quality control and attentive customer service, our experienced staff is always available to discuss your requirements and ensure complete customer satisfaction.

 

24h online service: We try and respond to all concerns within 24 hours and our teams are always at your disposal in case of any emergencies.

 

Quality control: We have professional personnel to monitor the production process, inspect the products and ensure that the final product meets the required quality level standards, guidelines and specifications.

 

Pastel C Printing Ink

 

Types of Water Based Ink

Dye-based water-based ink
Dye-based water-based ink is an ink that uses water-soluble dyes to produce color. These inks offer bright and vibrant colors and are typically used for printing on paper, textiles, and cardstock. However, they are susceptible to fading in light and water exposure.
Pigment-based water-based ink
Pigment-based water-based ink uses pigments instead of dyes to produce color. These inks offer a more durable and long-lasting color compared to dye-based inks. They are also resistant to fading, smudging, and water exposure. Pigment-based inks are ideal for printing on a variety of substrates, including paper, cloth, plastic, and metal.
Reactive dye water-based ink
Reactive dye water-based ink is a type of ink that includes reactive groups in the dye molecule. These inks are used mainly for printing on textiles and are known for their excellent color vibrancy, water resistance, and wash fastness.
Acid dye water-based ink
Acid dye water-based ink is another type of ink used primarily for printing on textiles. They use acid dyes to produce colors and are known to be very vibrant and fade-resistant, with excellent wash fastness.

 

Material of Water Based Ink

 

 

Water-based ink is a type of ink made from water as the main solvent instead of oil or other chemicals. The base material of water-based ink usually consists of a mixture of dyes or pigments, resins, and various additives. To ensure that the ink adheres well to the paper, binders and humectants are added to the ink, along with other materials that help to control the viscosity and drying rate.

 

 

Application of Water Based Ink

Printing

Water-based ink is commonly used for printing on various surfaces, including paper, fabrics, and plastics. It is suitable for printing on both absorbent and non-absorbent materials and produces high-quality, vibrant colors.

 

Packaging

Water-based ink is widely used for printing on packaging materials such as cardboard boxes, bags, and wrappers. It is an excellent choice for food packaging as it does not release any toxic substances that can harm consumers.

 

Art and craft

Water-based ink is popular in the art and craft industry due to its flexibility and ease of use. It is used for painting and drawing on paper, canvas, and other surfaces.

 

Medical applications

Water-based inks are used in medical applications such as printing on sterile packages, medical labels, and pharmaceutical packaging. It meets strict safety regulations and does not pose any health risks.

Water Soluble Transparent Polymer

 

 
Process of Water Based Ink
 
01/

Selection of raw materials

The first step in making water based ink is the careful selection of raw materials. Water based inks are composed of a mixture of pigments, resins, solvents and additives. These materials are carefully selected based on their quality and compatibility with each other.

02/

Pre-mixing of pigments

In the production of water based ink, pigments are pre-mixed with a small amount of water to form a pigment paste. The purpose of this is to ensure that the pigments are well dispersed and easy to mix with the other components.

03/

Mixing of components

Once the pigments are pre-mixed, the other components are added to the mixture. These components include resins, which are the binding agents that hold the pigment together, solvents, which help to enhance the ink's flow properties, and additives, which are used to improve the ink's performance and stability.

04/

Grinding

After all the components have been mixed, the ink is passed through a grinding mill to ensure that the pigment particles are thoroughly dispersed and the ink is smooth and consistent.

05/

Quality control

Once the ink has been produced, it undergoes several tests to ensure that it meets the required specifications. This includes testing its viscosity, pH level, and color accuracy.

06/

Packaging

The final step in the production of water based ink is the packaging. The ink is packaged into containers of various sizes and shapes, depending on the intended application.

 

Printing Ink On Plastic

 

Components of Water Based Ink

Pigments

Pigments are one of the main components of water based ink. They give the ink its color and opacity, and they are available in a wide range of colors.

Binders

Binders are substances that hold the pigment particles together and adhere the ink to the surface being printed. They determine the level of adhesion, durability, and flexibility of the ink film.

Humectants

Humectants are substances added to keep the ink from drying out too quickly. They help to maintain the ink's viscosity and prevent it from clogging the printing equipment.

Surfactants

Surfactants are compounds that help the ink spread evenly on the printing surface by reducing the surface tension of the ink.

Additives

Additives are substances that are added to ink to modify its properties. Examples include viscosity modifiers, anti-foaming agents, and preservatives.

Water

Water is the main solvent in water based ink. It is used to dissolve and disperse the other components of the ink.

 

Maintenance of Water Based Ink

 

 

Store the ink in a cool, dry place
Heat and humidity can cause water based ink to dry out or become clumpy. Therefore, it is essential to store the ink in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keeping the ink in an airtight container can help prevent evaporation and maintain its consistency.
Mix the ink regularly
Water based ink contains a mixture of water and pigment particles that can settle over time. This can cause the ink to become thicker or thinner, affecting its printing quality. To avoid this, it is important to mix the ink regularly using an agitator or a stir stick.
Clean your equipment
Water based ink can leave residue on printing machines, causing clogs and impairing performance. To prevent this, it is essential to clean your printing equipment regularly. This includes cleaning the ink rollers, print heads, and any other components that come into contact with the ink.
Use the ink regularly
Water based ink performs best when it is used regularly. When left unused for a long time, the ink can dry out or become unusable. Therefore, it is recommended to use the ink at least once a week or follow the manufacturer's instructions for usage.
Use high-quality paper
The paper quality can affect the final print quality. Using low-quality paper can cause the ink to bleed or appear faded. Therefore, it is important to use high-quality paper that is designed for your printer and ink.

 

Precautions of Water Based Ink
Color Printer Ink
Water Based Intaglio Ink
Printing Ink Water Based
Printing Ink On Plastic

Proper storage
Water-based ink should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and light can cause the ink to dry out, separating the pigment from the binder, which can lead to clogging of the print head. It is also important to keep water-based ink containers tightly closed to prevent evaporation.
Mixing
Water-based ink should be mixed thoroughly before use to ensure an even distribution of pigments. It is recommended to use a mixer or stirring rod to mix the ink gently, avoiding the creation of air bubbles which can also cause clogging of the print head.
Cleaning
Water-based ink can dry quickly, so it is important to clean your printing equipment immediately after use. Typically, warm water and soap are sufficient for cleaning, but it is important to use the manufacturer-recommended cleaning agents to avoid any damage to the equipment.
Use of additives
While water-based ink is generally considered to be safe, certain additives such as surfactants and biocides may be added to improve ink performance. It is important to consider the potential risks associated with these additives as they may pose a risk to your health or the environment.
Health and safety
Water-based ink contains lower levels of volatile organic compounds (vocs) compared to solvent-based inks, but it is still important to handle it with care. It is recommended to wear gloves and eye protection, avoid ingestion or inhalation, and ensure adequate ventilation when using water-based ink.

 

How to Choose Water Based Ink
 

Purpose

The first consideration when choosing water-based ink is what purpose it serves. Are you printing on fabric, paper, or other materials? Do you need the ink to be opaque or transparent? Will it be used for fine detailing or larger areas of coverage? The answers to these questions will help you select the right type of ink.

Printing Ink On Plastic
Printing Ink Water Based

Color

Color is an important factor when choosing water-based ink. Consider the color palette needed for the project and determine whether the ink manufacturer offers the desired colors. Some ink manufacturers offer custom color matching services for specialty projects.

Consistency

The consistency of the ink is also important. A consistency that is too thick may not adhere well to the surface of the material, while a consistency that is too thin may not cover as well and may seep into the fabric or paper fibers. Test the ink's consistency before making a purchase to ensure it meets your needs.

Water Based Intaglio Ink
Pastel C Printing Ink

Drying time

Consider the drying time of the ink. If you need the ink to dry quickly, choose an ink that is specifically designed for quick-drying. If you have more time to allow the ink to dry, you might be able to get away with a slower drying ink.

Environment

Consider the environmental impact of the ink. Water-based inks are generally considered to be more environmentally friendly than solvent-based inks. However, some may contain harmful chemicals or require additional processing to be eco-friendly. Look for inks that are non-toxic and free of harmful chemicals.

Water Based Ink in Resin
Water Based Ink for Flexo Printing

Brand

Finally, consider the brand of ink you are purchasing. Look for reputable brands with a history of producing high-quality inks that meet your needs. Read product reviews and ask for recommendations from other printers to ensure you're getting a reliable product.

 

The Working Principle of Water Based Ink

 

Water based ink is a type of ink that is made from water, pigments or dyes, and a binder material. This ink is used for printing on various surfaces such as paper, fabric, and plastic. The working principle of water based ink is that the water serves as the carrier or solvent that helps to dissolve or disperse the pigments or dyes in the ink. The binder material then helps to hold the pigments or dyes together and also adhere to the printing surface. When the ink is applied to the printing surface, the water evaporates leaving behind the pigments or dyes and binder material, which forms the printed image.

 

 
Our Factory

 

Specializes in the r&d, production and sales of water-based inks, water-based varnishes, water-based acrylic resins, water-based acrylic emulsions, pearlescent binders and other eco-friendly water-based printing materials.

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FAQ
 

Q: What is a water based ink?

A: Water-based inks are defined as inks that use water as the main solvent for carrying pigment. These inks are made from water, rather than other components such as plastic or pvc. Water-based inks use water as a medium to bring pigments (colours) into the substrate.

Q: Is water based ink washable?

A: Wash out – you can wash waterbased inks out with tap water, if the inks a little dry gently use a brush or a bit of soap. No nasty chemicals needed and no nasty chemicals going down your drain. - feel - we love the feel of a set waterbased ink, it sinks perfectly in to the fabric and is really nice to touch.

Q: Does water based ink last?

A: While plastisol tends to last for a hundred washes and then begin to fade, crinkle, and even chip off the garment (think of a really old t-shirt you might have) – water based inks can actually last much longer. This is because water based inks can actually become part of the garment.

Q: Why is water based ink better?

A: Water-based inks produce longer lasting prints with impeccable detail, with more defined, sharper edges. This includes half-tones and other detailed designs, making them the perfect choice for printing intricate, detailed designs.

Q: How do water based inks work?

A: They are made up mostly of acrylic resins or hybrid blends of acrylic resin and polyurethanes. Water based ink penetrates the fabric more than plastisol and will always provide a softer print because most of the ink is made up of soft resins and water which evaporates during the curing process.

Q: How do you make water based ink permanent?

A: Most water-based inks are likely to require a heat setting step in order to be permanent and last over time. Check your ink's packaging for specific heat setting or curing instructions to be sure your project lasts as long as possible.

Q: Is water based ink food grade?

A: Water-based inks are food-safe, odor-free and nontoxic. This option opens up huge possibilities for companies who package food, cosmetics, drugs or even children's toys. Water-based inks also reduce the environmental impact of food packaging, since no additional material are needed to prevent ink contamination.

Q: Does water based ink dissolve in water?

A: Water based inks are screen-printing inks that are water soluble. They differ from traditional plastisol inks in several ways. Water based inks are much thinner and when printed with, will be absorbed into the fibers of the garment, becoming one with the shirt.

Q: How long does water-based ink last?

A: Water is the primary solvent to keep the pigment or dye in a liquid form. For the print to cure, the water has to evaporate entirely. The ink sinks into the fabric, becoming part of the garment itself. Longevity: Water-based prints last as long as the garment does, with no signs of cracking or peeling over time.

Q: How do you know if water-based ink is cured?

A: As with curing plastisol inks, you can use temperature strips or an infrared thermometer to check the temperature of the ink as it comes off of the dryer. You also will want to perform a wash test of a trial print to be sure that your water-based ink has been properly cured.

Q: Can you cure water based ink by air drying?

A: This can be done in a few ways, but the best way is to use a forced air flash or conveyor dryer. You can reach a proper cure in water-based prints without forced air equipment, but it'll take longer and may not guarantee a full cure.

Q: How do you keep water based ink from drying out?

A: To make sure that your ink is not drying in the screen, just add any kind of a retarder. For example, glycerine will work best to prevent your water based ink from drying.
Is water based pigment ink permanent?
Since they are water-based, they will leave a gorgeous detailed impression every single time. You can set the stamped image with a heat gun or iron to make it permanent. These pigment inks are rich, vibrant, and acid-free! These inks are archival so your handmade projects will last for a long time without fading.

Q: Can you use water based ink on paper?

A: Formulated for the quality-minded, professional screen printer, these inks print well on paper, wood, cardboard and certain vinyls. They have a vivid, water-resistant, matte finish when dry.

Q: How long does water based ink take to dry?

A: Water-based fabric ink typically cures at about 320 degrees and takes about three minutes to cure. Plastisol ink, which is essentially liquid plastic, cures at about the same temperature but typically only will take a minute or so.

Q: Is water based ink good for screen printing?

A: Water-based inks soak into the fabric as opposed to sitting on top of the fabric, therefore, making the print smoother and breathable. Water-based inks are better when printing on light-colored cotton, if the design has a lot of details, and if the ideal print has muted colors.

Q: What is the difference between oil based ink and water based ink?

A: The main components of the ink are solvents and colorants (pigments). Oil based mainly uses "volatile organic solvent" as solvent, and water based mainly uses "water". Oil based ink dries quicker than water based ink, and is easy to write on plastics and metals, as it has a strong adhesion property.

Q: Does water based ink bleed?

A: The ink in a water-based marker is usually less heavy than that in an alcohol-based marker, hence causing lesser bleeds. Water markers are therefore preferably used in coloring books and journals.

Q: How long to flash dry water based ink?

A: Cure the ink for 30 to 40 seconds or until it reaches to ideal cure temperature. You can test screen-printed fabrics by waiting for the ink to cool down and stretching it a little bit. If the ink cracks, you'll need to flash it a bit longer until it reaches a complete cure.

Q: Why is water based ink better?

A: Water-based inks produce longer lasting prints with impeccable detail, with more defined, sharper edges. This includes half-tones and other detailed designs, making them the perfect choice for printing intricate, detailed designs.

As one of the leading water based ink manufacturers and suppliers in China, we established an independent water-based ink brand. Please feel free to buy high quality water based ink at competitive price from our factory. Contact us for more details.

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