How to Get Good Results With Varnish
Introduction
The application of varnish to a print produces some spectacular, and at
times, surprising results depending on the combination of design and
media. To achieve a smooth high gloss, varnish must be applied in heavy
coats. To achieve good results with varnish, consider the following
principles and tools:
•
Maintain a Clean Environment
•
Keep the Printer Clean
•
Prepare the Media Surface
•
Consider Varnish in the Job Design
NOTE
Varnish does not require any special handling but, as with all inks, regular
printhead maintenance is important.
Maintain a Clean Environment
All inkjet printers are prone to image quality / jetting reliability issues when
there is airborne dust or other debris that can interfere with the jetting of
ink from the printheads. The air quality within the room is extremely
important to the achievement of printed varnish images with minimal dust
contamination. It is also beneficial for maintaining the overall image
quality and printhead jetting reliability.
In the printer operating environment the amount of airborne particles can
influence the final varnish finish. Since the systems that condition and
circulate the air can also circulate dust and particles, keeping the printer
clean enough to produce good gloss varnish finish may require extra
cleaning. If you use the Varnish option frequently, we recommend that you
take steps to minimize contaminants by isolating the printer from dusty
conditions.
Some tips for minimizing airborne dust and debris contamination:
• Install a good ventilation system and diligently keep air filters clean.
• Avoid dusty areas – printer should not be located near routers, sanders,
trimmers or other machinery that generate airborne dust and debris.
• Do not install the printer on carpet or untreated concrete floor or other
surfaces that can be a source of dust.
• Avoid placing the printer near air vents.
• Frequently wet-mop the room floor.
How to Get Good Results With Varnish
Chapter 9 - How to Work With White Ink and Varnish
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User Manual: Arizona (AZ) 440 GT, AZ 440 XT, AZ 460 GT, AZ 460 XT, AZ 480 GT, AZ 480 XT - Rev. B, 4/2013
