Which inks work best with flexo printing machines?

What Are the Main Types of Inks Used in Flexo Printing?

Flexographic printing utilizes three primary types of inks, each suited to specific applications:

• Water-Based Inks: Ideal for porous substrates like paper and corrugated boards, offering environmental benefits such as low VOC emissions and easier cleanup. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

• Solvent-Based Inks: Preferred for non-porous substrates like flexible films, providing fast drying speeds and excellent adhesion. However, they require good ventilation due to higher VOC emissions. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

• UV-Curable Inks: Cured instantly under UV light, suitable for labels, shrink sleeves, and specialty packaging, offering high chemical resistance and print durability with minimal environmental impact. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

How Do I Choose the Right Ink for My Flexo Printing Project?

Selecting the appropriate ink depends on several factors:

• Substrate Compatibility: Match the ink to the material being printed to ensure optimal adhesion and print quality. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

• Drying and Curing Requirements: Consider the drying speed needed; UV inks offer instant curing, while water-based and solvent-based inks have varying drying times. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

• Environmental and Regulatory Compliance: Be aware of local regulations regarding VOC emissions and food safety standards. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

• Cost Efficiency: Balance ink performance with production costs, considering factors like ink consumption and waste. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

What Are the Environmental Considerations When Choosing Flexo Inks?

Environmental impact is a crucial consideration:

• Water-Based Inks: Generally more eco-friendly with lower VOC emissions, making them suitable for applications requiring compliance with environmental regulations. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

• UV-Curable Inks: Offer high durability with minimal environmental impact, as they cure instantly under UV light, reducing energy consumption. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

• Solvent-Based Inks: Typically have higher VOC emissions, necessitating effective ventilation and adherence to environmental standards. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

How Do Ink Properties Affect Print Quality and Efficiency?

Ink properties significantly influence printing outcomes:

• Color Strength and Consistency: High-quality inks ensure vibrant and consistent colors across print runs. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

• Drying Speed: Fast-drying inks, like UV-curable types, enhance production speed and reduce the risk of smudging. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

• Adhesion and Durability: Inks with strong adhesion properties ensure prints withstand handling and environmental factors without degradation. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

What Are the Latest Trends in Flexo Printing Inks?

Recent developments in flexo inks include:

• Sustainable Inks: Growing demand for eco-friendly options, such as water-based and UV-curable inks, aligns with global sustainability efforts.

• High-Performance Inks: Advancements in ink formulations offer improved color strength, faster drying times, and better adhesion, enhancing overall print quality. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

• Customization: Tailored ink solutions to meet specific substrate and application requirements are becoming more prevalent.

Conclusion: Advantages of Keshenglong & Shinko's Flexo Printing Solutions

Keshenglong & Shinko offer advanced flexographic printing machines compatible with all ink types, ensuring optimal performance and print quality. Their expertise and commitment to innovation make them a reliable partner for your printing needs.

References:

• Keshenglong & Shinko. (2025, May 16). What Ink is Used for Flexo Printing? Insights. ((https://www.shinkomachinery.com/article/what-ink-is-used-for-flexo-printing-insights-keshenglong-shinko.html))

• ZHEJIANG PUJI PACKAGING MACHINERY CO., LTD. (2025). Top 10 Sustainable Inks for Flexographic Printing Machines.

• American Inks & Technology. (2023, June 28). Which flexo ink for your project.

• Zeller+Gmelin. (n.d.). Flexographic Inks | Expertly Done.

• Label and Narrow Web. (n.d.). Flexo and UV Flexo Inks.