Your guide to cold foiling....
The specifications you need to achieve success!

Process Specifications

The Process / Web Paths

•  The best configuration is a straight path from the print station,
    through the nip, the curing station, to the stripping roller.
•  The fewer the number of rollers contacting the foil with the least
    amount of path changes, the easier the process. Try to strip as
    soon as possible after cure station.
•  Many configurations are proven. Note wed diagrams for
    examples.

Substrates

•  Dyne level must be between 38 and 42.
•  Porous substrates may require a primer

Anilox

•  4.8 to 5.6 bcm.
•  Doctor Blade - .006" with honed chamfered edge.

Adhesive

•  UV adhesive for process flexo / letterpress / textile.
•  Adhesive is 1300-1500 centipoise for flexographic, 5000-6000
    for letterpress and 8000 for textiles.

Plate

•  Medium to hard plate.
•  Hard mounting tape.
•  Properly cured.
•  Even thickness including bearer bars.
•  Avoid cushion mount tape if possible.

Foil

•  Use "Cure-Through" foil.

Nip Roller

•  Not driven.
•  Bottom roller steel 2-3 inches in diameter.
•  Top roller rubber 80-90 durometer. 2-3 inch diameter
    (2" recommended).
•  Rollers should be ground true.
•  Ensure that the foil is fed into the nip straight to prevent creasing
   and smudging of print.

UV Curing Station

•  300 watts per inch minimum.
•  Should be full power unless ramp up.

Rewind & Unwind

•  Runs true to press and web (square).
•  Tensions on both sides are equally important, both on nip and
    strip and unwind and rewind.
•  Tension is controlled on both unwind and rewind to ensure feed
    and take up are smooth and steady.
•  Foil (adhesive contact side) should not contact any rollers only
    substrate.
•  Foil should be stripped as soon as possible after curing.

Stripping Roller

•  Steel roller is recommended
•  2 inches diameter.
•  Ensure surface is clean and smooth.
•  Strip foil at a 90 degree angle.

Please Note: Always consult your sales representative regarding any new application.

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Last modified: May 20, 2004 Copyright © 2000-2004 by Image Group. All rights reserved.
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