versaworks

Improving UV Adhesion on Corrugated Plastics

This article will provide steps to improve the adhesion of UV inks on corrugated plastic substrates.

Introduction

The following information provides a method for adhesion of Eco-UV (Version 2 and 4) inks on Coroplast /Corrugated plastic. These findings are a result of various printing tests from sample request fulfillment, in-house production and on-site application support. The information provided is simply a reference to manage expectations when printing on Coroplast /Corrugated plastic. The result of this process is a strong and durable bond. The most common reason you can get adhesion failure is curing the ink too fast and or not enough. Please note: There are many different manufactures and types of Coroplast. Prior to doing multiple prints it is recommended that you test your material prior to full production.
 
Corrugated plastic: Uncoated or Untreated. 
The first step in any printing process is to make sure your material is clean and dust free. It is best to wipe with a 99% Isopropyl Alcohol. Use a lint free cloth and give a final wipe with anti-static spray. It is important that you do not use a wax based cleaner such as window cleaner or soapy water. This will cause a waxy surface and adhesion failure.
First let’s take a look at adhesion failure. See figure below: This is a common issue with adhesion failure, chipping, flaking or light abrasion scratches. Please note: scratching with keys, razor blades or any ridged material is not a good test. (If it will scratch your car it will scratch Coroplast). The proper method of testing adhesion is to apply a piece of masking tape to the surface of your print and lift quickly. If the ink lifts off, it is not good adhesion or bond.


 
For this material we will be controlling the adhesion or ink curing thru VersaWorks or VersaWorks duel.
Step 1) Import your file to VersaWorks.
Step 2) (See Figure A.) Make sure the profile you are using has a max ink density of 330. This is found under Media Explorer. 
Step 3) (See Figure B) Go to quality settings select Ignore Default Settings and set your head speed to 411mm/sec.

Step 4) Rip and Print your file.
Using this procedure will give you a much better bond and adhesion. In our test we had no peeling or flaking and the image withstood minor abrasion attempts.
This process can also work for other materials. Always test prior to full production runs.

August 29, 2018