Testing Fluff & Printability Of Paper

The roughness of a paper greatly determines its print quality. During production the fundamental properties of the paper change which affects the thickness, absorption, and permeability of the paper. The printing results depend on these characteristics too in addition to the ink, printing press, and other factors. Surface coating and printability testing equipment by UEC helps in testing the surface structure and integrity of papers. 2 of the most commonly performed tests and their equipment are discussed in the following section.

Testing Fluff & Printability Of Paper 

1. Fluff Test

This test determines the linting tendency or the short fibers of the non-coated printing paper. Manufacturers use UEC’s fluff tester to perform the fluff test. 

During the test, the specimen is located between a steel roll and the offset blanket. It is then driven between the rolls under nip pressure. The magnifying glass counter, mounted on the machine counts the number of fibers and particles sticking to a particular area of the blanket. What’s the best about this machine is that it gives reproducible results. Plus, multiple sheets can be tested together at a great speed. 

2. Printability Test

This test is the laboratory version of testing the paper and ink in conditions imitated to the actual printing. In other words, this test determines the precise simulation of an offset press, gravure, and flexo printing on a lab scale. UEC’s printability tester is used to perform this test. 

During the test, the paper surface strength, wet pick, abrasion, print penetration, etc. are tested. Two printing discs, a variable interval timer, speed, and printing pressures are all driven electrically. Manufacturers can also opt for inking apparatus and sample cutters to get appropriate results. 

Conclusion

Both fluff and printability tests are significant when it comes to testing the surface and coating strength of the paper. Learn more about the coating and printability testing equipment by UEC and invest in the right machines. Visit the website today.