Total Ink Solutions® Opti-974 Slow Thinner / Retarder – High-Performance Solution for Special Performance Polyurethane, Leather, and More
The Total Ink Solutions® Opti-974 Slow Thinner / Retarder is a superior ink modifier designed to enhance the printability and durability of inks on challenging substrates, including special performance polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, latex, leather, and more. Formulated to improve adhesion, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals and heat, Opti-974 is the ideal solution for achieving high-quality, durable prints on a wide range of treated and untreated surfaces. With excellent flexibility (55D) and mar resistance, this retarder is perfect for applications where superior adhesion and print durability are essential.
Key Features:
- Superior Adhesion: Enhances ink adhesion on difficult-to-print substrates such as polyurethane, polyamide, and leather.
- High Resistance: Provides excellent resistance to dry cleaning chemicals and heat, ensuring long-lasting prints.
- Excellent Flexibility: Offers exceptional flexibility with a 55D rating, maintaining the integrity of the print on flexible substrates.
- Durable Mar Resistance: Ensures a scuff-resistant, glossy finish that withstands exposure and wear.
- Compliance: Fully compliant with California Proposition 65 and RoHS standards, ensuring safety and environmental responsibility.
Ideal Stock Use:
- Polyamide (Nylon)
- Polyester
- Polyurethane
- Rubber
- Leather
- Cotton Denim
- Canvas
Product Details:
The Opti-974 Slow Thinner / Retarder is specifically formulated to work with the 66000 series screen inks, which are known for their high adhesion and durability on hard-to-print substrates. This retarder is ideal for improving ink flow and preventing premature drying in hot and humid conditions. It ensures that your prints maintain their quality and adhesion, even under challenging environmental conditions.
Pre-Test Recommendation:
It is recommended to pre-test the ink with the retarder on your actual substrate before any full production run to ensure proper adhesion, durability, and other desired effects.
Finish:
- Smooth, Flexible Finish: Provides a smooth, scuff-resistant, glossy finish that enhances the appearance and flexibility of printed materials.
Color Range:
- Available Colors: Available in both opaque and transparent colors, formulated with non-leaded pigments for safety and compliance.
Coverage:
- Coverage: Approximately 1,000 square feet (101 m²) per gallon through a mesh count of 250 (100T European) monofilament polyester.
Screen Fabric Recommendations:
- Mesh Counts: Suitable for mesh counts ranging from 230-280 (92T-112T/cm European) monofilament polyester.
- Stencil: Recommended stencils include dual-sensitized direct method photo emulsion (such as OPTIMA EM-500) or SBQ pre-sensitized photo emulsion, or any solvent-resistant film or photo emulsion.
Drying Instructions:
- Air Dry: Dries by solvent evaporation in approximately 30 minutes.
- Jet-Dry: Jet drying takes 20 to 30 seconds at 135°F to 180°F (37°C to 83°C).
Modification Options:
- Extend Color/Reduce Pigmentation: Add 66928 Match Base.
- Fine Detail Printing: Add 66PC850 Halftone Base for detailed prints.
- Improve Ink Flow: Add 1/2%-1% FA 011 Flow Agent by weight.
- Ink Reduction: For best results, reduce the 66000 series ink by 5-10% by weight with T-976. Under hot, humid conditions, add 3-5% T-922 or T-974 sparingly to prevent ink drying.
Quick Guide for Ink Modification:
- T-922: 3-5% by weight
- T-974: 3-5% by weight
- T-976: 5-10% by weight
- FA-011: 1/2%-1% by weight
Clean-Up Instructions:
- Recommended Solvents: Use T-902, T925 Wash-up, SC-500 Bio Wash-up, or SC-510 Instant Bio Wash-up for effective cleaning.
Packaging Options:
The Opti-974 Slow Thinner / Retarder is available in various sizes to meet your production needs:
- 1-Quart (0.945 Liters)
- 1-Gallon (3.78 Liters)
Safety & Handling:
- Safety First: Always refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for complete safety information.
- Protective Gear: Use safety gloves and eye protection when handling inks and solvents to prevent skin and eye contact.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation during use to avoid inhaling fumes.
Why Choose Total Ink Solutions® Opti-974 Slow Thinner / Retarder?
The Total Ink Solutions® Opti-974 Slow Thinner / Retarder is essential for screen printers working with challenging substrates such as polyurethane, leather, and nylon. By improving ink flow, flexibility, and adhesion, this retarder helps you achieve superior print quality and durability, even under demanding conditions. Trust Total Ink Solutions® to deliver products that meet the highest standards of quality, safety, and environmental responsibility.
