For every ink type (heat off-set, lithographic, flexographic, or gravure), achieving the required product specification is a challenge. It is a time consuming operation to produce ink conforming to ink color and pigment grind requirements.

These requirements is critical in specialty inks where color matching is required. Regardless of ink type or composition, conformance to the product specifications remains the goal.

System

Inks can be contaminated by many sources of different nature during production, such as fibers, solids and semi-solids, complicating production. System recirculation is often required to completely eliminate a contaminant. The system filter maintains pigment concentration and color while removing contaminants and ensures grind standards are met. The diagram below identifies key filtration location with appropriate filtration system recommendations.

Problem

Typical ink manufacturing processes require continuous recirculation and multiple quality checks to attain product color and grind specifications. The average filter working lifespan is reached before completion of a batch, requiring filter change-out and additional quality checks.

In addition, batch filtration processes requires filter disposal upon completion of a color specific batch, even if the cartridge lifespan is not fully utilized. Process equipment used for more than one color ink must be thoroughly cleaned, filters changed, and disposal of used filter elements.

These process practices result in:

• Reduced productivity by recirculation and repeated quality checks
• Manufacturing capacity reduced due poor equipment utilization
• Increased filter use and disposal costs
• Increased labor costs

Products Suitable For This Application

Based on ink color and pigment size, a single or multi-stage filtration process may be required utilizing FCN & FCP series filter cartridges. The multi-layered FCN Filter Cartridge features thick, lofty media for capturing deformable particulates.

JustFit^TM Movable Filter System integrates trolley, basket, bag filter, cartridge filter or membrane filter system, designed based on customers’ requirements.

The JustFit^TM Filtration System is light and handy, allowing mobility and flexible performance with easy operation. JustFit^TM Filter System is the preferred choice for small and medium ink companies.

Feature-Tec Filter Product	Applied to	Description
JustFitTM	InksPaints Coatings	Meets demands for intermittent operation and small batch production Light and handy Mobile and flexible performance’ Simple operation
Filter CartridgeFCN FBM	InksPaints Coatings	True gradient depth filtration Extremely low pressure losses High removal ratings & high void volumes
Filter BagPO PE	InksPaints Coatings	Economic, disposable filter bags are a common Filter media Interlocked fibers forms a strong matrix Ends are singed using special heat process, eliminating fiber migration