Ink Preservation Knowledge in Winter for Screen Printer

Introduction

Winter brings cold and dry weather. For screen printing, this can affect ink quality. If the ink becomes too thick or unstable, printing results will suffer. Good ink care in winter keeps colors bright and lines sharp.

Why Winter Affects Ink

In low temperatures, ink becomes thick. This slows printing and makes spreading uneven. Cold air also reduces ink flow. For UV or solvent inks, curing can take longer. Moisture changes in the air can also cause printing defects.

Ink Preservation Tips

✅ 1. Store Ink in a Warm Place

Keep ink indoors at 18–25°C (64–77°F). Avoid placing it near cold windows or on the floor.

✅ 2. Seal Containers Well

Close the lid tightly after each use. This stops moisture or dust from entering.

✅ 3. Stir Before Use

In winter, pigments can settle faster. Stir ink slowly until it is even in color and texture.

✅ 4. Avoid Direct Heat

Do not place ink directly on heaters. Rapid heating can damage the ink’s chemical balance.

Deployment Tips for Printing

✅ 1. Preheat the Printing Room

Keep the workshop warm. This helps ink flow better and keeps the machine stable.

✅ 2. Warm Up the Machine

Run the screen printing machine for a few minutes before starting production. This reduces the effect of cold parts.

✅ 3. Test Before Mass Production

Do a small test print. Check color, thickness, and curing. Adjust speed, pressure, or temperature as needed.

✅ 4. Use Winter-Grade Additives

Some ink brands offer winter additives to improve flow in cold weather. Add small amounts as recommended.

Extra Care for UV and Solvent Inks

• UV inks – Keep lamps clean and strong. Cold ink may need longer curing time.

• Solvent inks – Ensure good ventilation while keeping the temperature stable.

Conclusion

Proper ink care in winter keeps screen printing smooth and high in quality. Store ink in a warm place, seal it well, and test before big runs. These small steps save time, reduce waste, and keep your customers happy.