Gilsonite in Heatset Offset Inks

Heatset inks for magazines and catalogues dry in hot ovens. Black heatset inks can include gilsonite.

Role

• Enhances black colour
• Improves gloss in some formulations
• Helps pigment wetting

Considerations

Use grades compatible with heatset oils and resin systems. Test drying speed and setting.

How heatset inks dry

Heatset inks contain high-boiling mineral oils that are evaporated in a hot-air dryer, leaving resin and pigment on coated paper.

Gilsonite benefits

• Boosts black density
• Helps pigment wetting
• Can partially replace hydrocarbon resins

Considerations

• Check setting speed and gloss on coated stocks.
• Balance gilsonite with hard resins to control tack and set-off.

Testing

Run press or lab proof tests for density, gloss, set-off and rub resistance.

See ink grade gilsonite. Related: carbon black dispersion.