Precautions for printing water-based inks on non-woven fabrics
Date：2023-06-21 From：Star Color
When printing water-based inks on non-woven fabrics, there are several precautions you should take to ensure successful and satisfactory results. Here are some important considerations:
1.Fabric Selection: Choose a non-woven fabric that is compatible with water-based inks. Some non-woven fabrics may not readily absorb water-based inks or may cause bleeding and spreading of the colors. It's essential to test the fabric beforehand to ensure good ink absorption and color retention.
2.Pre-treatment: Some non-woven fabrics may require pre-treatment to improve ink adhesion. This can involve using a pre-treatment solution or applying a coating to the fabric surface to enhance ink absorption and color fastness. Consult with your ink supplier or fabric manufacturer for specific pre-treatment recommendations.
3.Ink Selection: Opt for water-based inks specifically designed for non-woven fabric printing. These inks have the necessary properties to adhere well to the fabric, provide vibrant colors, and resist bleeding or smudging. Choose high-quality, reliable inks from reputable suppliers.
4.Testing: Before large-scale production, always perform print tests on the non-woven fabric to evaluate the ink's performance and color vibrancy. Test various parameters such as ink viscosity, ink coverage, drying time, and color fastness to ensure satisfactory results.
5.Proper Ink Application: Follow the recommended printing techniques for water-based inks. Ensure that the ink is evenly applied to the fabric using appropriate printing methods, such as screen printing, roller printing, or digital printing. Maintain proper ink consistency and avoid excessive ink application, which can lead to bleeding and poor print quality.
6.Drying and Curing: Allow sufficient drying and curing time for the printed non-woven fabric. This helps the ink to fully penetrate and bond with the fabric fibers, enhancing durability and color fastness. Follow the ink manufacturer's instructions regarding drying temperature and time, as well as curing methods (e.g., heat setting or air drying).
7.Washing and Care Instructions: Provide clear washing and care instructions to the end-users of the printed non-woven fabric. Water-based inks generally have good wash fastness, but it's important to advise on appropriate washing conditions, such as temperature, detergent type, and avoiding harsh chemicals or bleach that may affect the ink's longevity.
8.Quality Control: Implement strict quality control measures during the printing process to ensure consistent results. Regularly check the fabric, ink, printing equipment, and drying/curing conditions to identify and address any issues promptly.
Remember, it is always advisable to consult with ink and fabric manufacturers for specific recommendations based on your printing setup and the intended use of the printed non-woven fabrics.
