Improving Ink Runability and Reducing Misting
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High-speed presses throw ink mist and demand stable ink behaviour on rollers.
Causes of misting
- Low ink viscosity or tack imbalance
- Poor ink–water balance
- High press speed
Gilsonite’s help
Gilsonite varnish adds body and improves cohesion of the ink film, reducing mist.
Other measures
- Anti-misting additives
- Correct fountain solution
- Temperature control on rollers
Signs of poor runability
- Ink mist on press frames
- Unstable colour density
- Piling on rollers or blankets
- Scumming in non-image areas
Formulation levers
| Lever | Effect |
|---|---|
| Gilsonite varnish | Adds body and cohesion |
| Viscosity / tack balance | Controls transfer and misting |
| Anti-misting additives | Reduce mist |
| Water pick-up | Affects stability |
Press-side checks
Fountain solution, roller settings and temperature all influence misting.
See ink grade gilsonite.
Recommended product
Data sheet
Ink & Paint Grade Gilsonite
| Property | Typical value | Test method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Dark brown–black powder | Visual |
| Softening point (R&B) | 150 – 180 °C | ASTM D36 |
| Ash content, max | 3 % | ASTM D3174 |
| Moisture, max | 1 % | ASTM D95 |
| Solubility in toluene, min | 99 % | ASTM D2042 |
| Particle size | 200 – 600 mesh | Sieve |
| Typical dosage | Ink varnish: 20–40 % in oil | |
| Packing | 25 kg paper bags with PE liner, palletized. | |
Typical values. The final specification is confirmed in the COA of each shipment.
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