Epson makes breakthrough with Epson UltraChrome® HDR White Ink
White ink used in inkjet printers has always been a difficult product for operators to work with; but after groundbreaking research and development, Epson has found an answer.
In order to overcome the issues surrounding conventional white ink, Epson engineers have devised an organic clear resin particle that replaces the use of inorganic Titanium dioxide used in white ink.
Previously, white inks used the powder Titanium dioxide (Tio2), containing large particles that quickly settle when dispersed in liquid due to gravity. This reaction and size of particles causes white ink to clog print heads and damage ink delivery systems, which results in costly and untimely repairs.
In addition, white ink used in today’s inkjet printers must be agitated regularly by either frequent use or head cleaning and daily shaking of the ink cartridge.
These problems have been greatly reduced now that Epson has created an organic clear resin particle which is safer and easier to use. Each particle is hollow so that when they are placed into a water-based solution, the particles float for longer, dramatically extending the settling period and minimising the need to frequently agitate the white ink formulation.
After printing, these hollow clear resin particles that contain nothing more than air, will provide effective light dispersion and create the illusion of the colour white on either clear or opaque substrates.
Due to its unique properties and harmless water-based formulation, Epson UltraChrome HDR White Ink expands the use of package proofing by taking it out of the factory and into the office.
The small particle size allows Epson UltraChrome HDR White Ink to be exclusively used in Epson Micro Piezo print heads, dramatically lowering the purchase price for a proofer of this type.
When combined with orange and green, Epson UltraChrome HDR White Ink reproduces a wide colour gamut that is suitable for high quality package proofs.
The perfect match for Epson UltraChrome® HDR White Ink, Epson’s ClearProof Film is the media of choice for high-quality proofing applications. This new film exhibits increased ink adherence capability, resulting in excellent print quality even when printing vivid or deep colours that require high ink duty.
Epson UltraChrome HDR White Ink is available for use with the newly released Epson Stylus Pro WT7900 package proofer (available in February 2010).