TW 5518 Flat Process Blue – Water-Based Poster Ink

Technical Specifications – TW 5518 Flat Process Blue Water-Based Poster Ink

Ink System Overview

• Ink Type: Water-Based Screen Printing Ink
• Series: TW 5500 Multi-Purpose Ink Series
• Color: 5518 Flat Process Blue
• Ink Construction: One-component system
• Finish: Flat / Matte
• Flexibility: Flexible ink film
• Application Type: Flat stock and rigid substrates

TW 5518 Flat Process Blue is a flat, water-based poster ink formulated for smooth coverage, accurate color reproduction, and excellent adhesion on flat stock materials. Designed for posters, fine art prints, signage, and graphic applications, this ink delivers consistent color strength with a clean matte finish.

Recommended Substrates

• Paper & poster stock
• Fine art papers
• Polystyrene (Styrene)
• Tyvek®
• Tedlar®
• Polycarbonate
• Treated polyester (non-fabric)
• Pressure-sensitive vinyl
• Interior signage and graphic panels

Screen & Stencil Requirements

Recommended Screen Mesh:

• 200–380 mesh (80–150 cm) monofilament polyester

Stencil Type:

• Solvent- and water-resistant emulsions only
• Dual-cure emulsions recommended for extended durability
• Emulsion must be fully dried prior to exposure
• Use waterproof block-out or emulsion for small touch-ups

Squeegee Recommendation

• Blade Material: Polyurethane
• Blade Hardness: 70–85 durometer
• Configuration: Single or multi-durometer
• Blade Condition: Sharp edge required for clean print detail

Ink Preparation, Additives & Thinning

• Stir ink thoroughly before each use
• Ink is supplied press-ready for most flat stock applications

Viscosity Adjustment:

• Water: Up to 5–10% by weight
• TW-1820 Thinner: Standard viscosity reduction
• TW-1821 Thinner: Slower evaporating thinner for extended print cycles

Retarders (Use Sparingly):

• TW-1822 Retarder: Standard drying slowdown
• TW-1823 Slow Retarder: For fine detail, warm environments, or slow press speeds
• Maximum retarder usage: 5–10% by weight

Additional Additives:

• 5100 Defoamer:

  • 1–2% by weight to reduce foaming at higher press speeds

• WB-1824 Activator:

  • 5–10% by weight to improve chemical and abrasion resistance

  • Pot life: 24 hours after mixing

  • Ink may be reactivated one additional time only

  • Mix only quantities intended for 24-hour use

• TW 4108 Flattening Powder:

  • 1–8% by weight to further reduce gloss level

  • Increases viscosity; adjust with water or thinner as needed

• TW 5008 Liquid Thickener:

  • 0.5–1% by weight to increase viscosity

  • Allow 10 minutes after mixing for full viscosity development

⚠️ Do not exceed recommended additive levels. Over-reduction may cause blocking, reduced adhesion, and slow drying.

Ink Yield & Coverage

• Coverage Rate:
  • 1,400–2,000 sq. ft. per gallon
  • (33–47 sq. meters per liter)

Coverage varies based on substrate absorption, mesh selection, squeegee hardness, and press setup.

Drying Parameters

• Air Dry:
  • 20–30 minutes at room temperature
• Force Dry:
  • Seconds at 90°F–150°F (32°C–66°C)

Ensure proper airflow during drying. Avoid excessive heat and do not stack prints while warm to prevent blocking.

Adhesion Testing

All substrates must be tested prior to production.

Cross Hatch Adhesion Test:

• Cut through ink film only using a sharp blade
• Apply 3M™ #600 tape firmly over cuts
• Rub tape down and remove quickly
• Ink should only lift within cut lines

Wash-Up & Reclaiming

• Press Wash: Use approved water-based press wash
• Reclaiming: Use degradants formulated specifically for water-based inks

Storage Requirements

• Storage Temperature: Below 100°F (38°C)
• Conditions: Room temperature, dry environment
• Avoid: Freezing, excessive heat, open flames
• Packaging Options
• Quarts
• Gallons

Safety & Handling

Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) prior to use.

Durability & Light-Fastness

• Interior Durability: Up to 3 years on most substrates

Durability may vary depending on substrate type, print thickness, and environmental exposure. Minor color and gloss shifts may occur over time.

TW 5000 & 5500 Series Safety Data Sheet