Surface Energy Measurements of Litho Inks and Dampening Solutions as Predictors of Press Performance

Studies of the surface energy of litho plates and inks in combination with dampening solutions with alcohol substitutes have shown that spreading coefficients and work of adhesion are more important than interfacial tension in predicting performance on press. The spreading coefficients and emulsification behavior of lithographic inks with different dampening solutions were determined to correlate with known press behavior patterns. The physical properties of several alcohol substitutes and their effect on press performance are discussed. different dampening solutions were determined to correlate with known press behavior patterns. The physical properties of several alcohol substitutes and their effect on press performance are discussed.