PLATES

Use metal plates that require the least amount of water. Do not use paper or polyester plates.

INK SELECTION

Inks used with Zodia^® should consist of high solids, low solvents and dry entirely by oxidation. They should contain higher pigment load to allow for printing less ink without sacrificing density or colour. They should be formulated to allow for a higher water pick up to prevent from over-emulsifying. They should set within 24 hours.

Due to their properties, a number of pigments should be avoided including Warm Red, Reflex Blue, Violet, Rhodamine, Metalics, and Fluorescents.

INK ADDITIVES

While it may be necessary to use additives in the drying process, care must be taken to avoid negative results. Cobalt blended with the ink may dry the surface of the ink film, preventing oxygen required for oxidation, to reach the ink underneath.

For two-sided printing, driers should be avoided or added sparingly to inks for printing the first side. Fan the sheets immediately after the ink has set to eliminate gas ghosting. Allow for longer drying time before printing on the second side.

Driers must not be used to compensate for improperly formulated ink.

FOUNTAIN SOLUTION

For best results, use a freshly mixed alcohol-based fountain solution. Avoid etches or substitutes that contain high percentage of glycerin that may retard drying.

Maintain fountain solution with a pH of 4.5 to 5.0. Use maximum allowable IPA or suitable alcohol substitute. When changing from paper to Zodia^® on press, use freshly made solution.

COATING & VARNISH

The use of aqueous coatings is complex and it is recommended that a qualified supplier be consulted before using them on Zodia^®. It is also important to test Zodia^® before an actual production run to determine the suitability of the material to the use contemplated.

A press equipped with an extended delivery should be able to successfully run aqueous coating in-line. Mximize airflow to ensure complete drying of the coating.

Attention and control is required for two-side coated jobs. Consult with the manufacturer for recommendations.

PRESS ROOM CONDITION

To avoid static related problems, maintain room temperature of 21-27°C (70-80°F) and 50-60% relative humidity. High humidity can adversely affect drying and low humidity can cause handling problems due to static. Use static eliminators such as humidifiers, static bars, and ionizing air units.

LASER PRINTING & PHOTOCOPYING

Zodia^® is not suitable for conventional laser printers, photocopiers or fax machines.