TROUBLESHOOTING | VISCOSITY DIFFERENCES

The challenges of viscosity

Viscosity describes the condition of a liquid. Thus, the viscosity shows the capability of a liquid to flow. This means: The higher the viscosity, the thicker (less flowable) the coating; the lower the viscosity, the thinner (more flowable) the coating.

For the processing of a coating, viscosity plays an important role. Only if the coating has been properly adjusted, a problem-free application out of the coating unit can be provided. If viscosity is too high or too low, running disturbances on the substrate or blocking of the sheets in the pile can be the result.

In general: Viscosity should not exceed 100 seconds. In practice, the following values have been established for the application in sheet-fed offset:

  • For waterbased coatings: 30 – 60 seconds
  • For UV coatings: 40 – 80 seconds
  • For effect coatings: 25 – 40 seconds

Measurement: It is carried out according to DIN 53211 in a 4 mm flow cup. A coating, temperated at 20° Celsius, is filled into a correspondingly temperated cup. Now, the coating starts to run into a (coating) container positioned under the flow cup. With a stop watch, the flow time is measured in seconds. Measurement begins with the running of the coating and stops with the break of the coating stream. 

Solving viscosity difference
S​​tep by Step

1. High temperatures or frost

High temperatures (> 35°C) have influence on the coating viscosity. This means: The higher the temperature, the more flowable the coating. Already a temperature difference of 1°C can result in a viscosity difference of several seconds. An example: A coating has been adjusted to 40 seconds at 20°C. If the temperature goes up to 30°C, the viscosity may fall down to 32 seconds. A temperature of 15°C may cause a viscosity increase up to 47 seconds. If the coating is too thin due to heat, temperature should be brought down. We recommend 20°C as a processing temperature for waterbased coatings. If possible, keep the temperature stable during the processing of the coating. For winter time: Depending on the coating type, waterbased coatings can freeze at temperatures below minus 5°C. If this happens, the frozen coating should be slowly defrosted at room temperature. A processing is not possible if the coating has not reached room temperature after stirring. In some cases it may come to a viscosity increase. This must be controlled and, if necessary, adjusted by means of  the addition of water (maximum 3%). 

2. Long or wrong storage

Long storage periods may result in a viscosity increase for waterbased coatings. By means of a good stirring it is mostly possible to reach the original viscosity again. Otherwise, it should be regulated by the addition of water (maximum 3%). Moreover, 
keep coating containers properly closed. Like this, evaporation and thus, a viscosity increase can be avoided.

3. More recommendations

Check the viscosity of your coating regularly, also before and during the coating process. In advance of each viscosity check, the coating must be stirred well.

Your short checklist

Influence factor: Coating viscosity
Measure: Check regularly and adjust, if needed
Influence factor: Coating
Measure: Stir well

Still have open questions? Contact us and we will support you with the application.

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