the guide to hot stamping and foil selection

Transcription

THE GUIDE TO HOT STAMPING
AND FOIL SELECTION
A Note on the downloadable PDF version of the
Milford Astor Guide to Hot Stamping and Foil Selection.
This version of the foil catalogue does not include any foil or colour
swatches as colours and finishes can not be replicated on a computer
screen. If you are interested in getting samples of the foils mentioned in
this catalogue please contact your Milford Astor Sales Representative
or email us: [email protected].
CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION
Milford Astor Printing Systems
Milford Astor Foilmakers
Milford Astor Pty Ltd
ABN 70 004 321 322
2 Rothschild Avenue ROSEBERY NSW 2018 AUSTRALIA
21 Temple Drive THOMASTOWN VIC 3074 AUSTRALIA
complies with the requirements of
AS/NZS ISO 9001:2000
Quality management systems
Requirements
for the following capability
The registration covers the Quality Management System for the manufacture, procurement, warehousing, slitting and
distribution of pigmented and metallised hot stampig foil; procurement, warehousing, slitting and distribution of thermal
transfer ribbon, the purchase and distribution of machines for marking, coding and product embellishment and
associated equipment and supplies; the servicing and technical support of supplied machines; the production of
artwork, manufacture and supply of printing elements.
Registered by:
SAI Global Certification Services Pty Ltd (ACN 108 716 669) 286 Sussex Street Sydney NSW 2000 Australia with SAI Global Limited
(”SAI Global”) and subject to the SAI Global Terms and Conditions for Certification. While all due care and skill was exercised in carrying out
this assessment, SAI Global accepts responsibility only for proven negligence. This certificate remains the property os SAI Global and must be
returned to SAI Global upon request.
Originally certified to AS/NZS ISO 9002 on 20 August 1993
09 February 2004
24 November 2006
Alex Ezrakhovich
General Manager Certification
for and on behalf of
Authorised Local Signatory, SAI Global
E
M
BE
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R OF
TE
RA
T
M
ACCREDITED
R
Assurance
Assurance Services
Services
E
L
standards
assurance
innovation
C
N
SAI Global Limited
OG
NIT
IO N
A RR AN
GE
M
E
THE INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATION NETWORK
MEMBER
www.jas-anz.com.au/register
MKP 142.02 CDAN 05/225 HMABLAZE 112557
Certified Date:
Expiry Date:
Certificate No.: QEC2098
Issue Date:
11 November 2005
Milford
Milford
Astor Astor
Foilmakers
Contents
Basic Hot Stamping Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1. .-1-44
. . -5 8
-8
Hot Stamping History, Manufacture & Stamping Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
29
Foil & Shade Selection Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99-- 17
15
Metallic Foils for Graphics, Plastics, Leather & Fabrics . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .99-- 11
Matt Pigment Foils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
17 - 19
21 - -23
Gloss & Semi-Gloss Foils for Plastics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
14
Pearl Foils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
25 - 27
. . 29
Metallic Foils for Rotary & Cylinder Presses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Specialty Foils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
. . . 31
Quick Application Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
. . . 32
Hot Stamping Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
33 - -34
20
Bottle Stamping & Roll-on Stamping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
35 - -39
25
Hot Stamping Substrates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
40 --41
27
Stamping Dies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
42 - -45
31
Make-Ready Materials & General Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
46 - -47
33
Tips to Save Pains & Strains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
. . 48
Weights & Measurements of Master Rolls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
. . 49
Foil Requirements Calculator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
. . 50
Table of Cuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 37
. . . 51
Common Problems and Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
. . . 51
. 52-54
Glossary of Hot Stamping Terms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
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MELBOURNE
21 Temple Drive
Thomastown VIC 3074
Ph: (03) 9465 0166
Fax: (03) 9464 1024
SYDNEY
2 Rothschild Avenue
Rosebery NSW 2018
Ph: (02) 9663 3911
Fax: (02) 9662 1020
e-mail: [email protected]
ADELAIDE
1A West Thebarton Road
Thebarton SA 5031
Ph: (08) 8234 5466
Fax: (08) 8352 3712
www.astor.com.au
Milford Astor
Basic Hot Stamping Information
This catalogue has been published to illustrate and describe our hot stamping foils available for
marking and decorating a wide variety of materials. It includes essential product specifications
to guide and assist in the selection and application of foils.
Milford Astor offers the widest selection of grades, colours and finishes, and maintain the industry's
largest stock in strategically located warehouses to ensure prompt delivery. Recommendations for
usage are to help in selecting the correct foil to meet a particular application.
Please request samples for testing and evaluation in your own plant.
samples, please specify or submit materials to be stamped.
When requesting
Our foil testing facilities together with technical sales people are at your service for consultation
and assistance.
Selection of Foils
The following pages are designed to assist in the selection of foils for particular applications.
However, the information given is intended purely as a guide.
In many cases more than one grade of foil has been recommended for a particular application.
This is because of the wide range of hot stamping machines in use and the variations
encountered in substrates and print requirements. For these reasons it is essential that
customers carry out their own tests to ascertain the most suitable grade for their application.
Metallic Shades
Shade references should be checked against the colour cards before ordering. However, owing
to variations in formulas from one grade to another, each has its own distinctive characteristics,
giving a slightly different appearance between shades with the same reference numbers.
Pigment Shades
The colour charts show shades obtained when a solid area is stamped onto a white gloss card.
NOTE: Some pigments such as red and maroon can smudge if rubbed. It is the responsibility
of the customer to test for abrasion and smudge resistance.
Shades may appear slightly darker if stamped:
a) at too high a temperature
b) with too much pressure
c) with too much dwell
d) in fine detail work
e) on a very dark or contrasting background
They may appear slightly lighter if stamped:
a) at too low a temperature
b) with too little pressure
c) with a rubber die
d) with insufficient dwell
e) on a similar coloured background
f) onto clear plastic
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Toxicity
If required, we can supply foils that are non-toxic according to standards laid down by health
authorities. Our technical staff will assist you in making your choice.
Metal Corrosion
When metallised foils are stamped onto ink, plastic surfaces, or materials that contain certain
chemicals, there is a possibility that the metallic layer may be attacked. This possibility is even
more likely if the substrate is moist at the time of stamping, e.g., from a gluing operation, or if
stored after blocking in an atmosphere of high humidity.
It is essential that before any stamping programme is carried out on such substrates, test
stampings are made and prints subjected to high humidity for a period of two or three days.
Migration (Plasticisers)
When foils are stamped onto soft flexible plastics, such as PVC, there is a possibility that the
plasticisers used in such substrates will migrate into the foiled area. The surface of this area
may become 'tacky' or smudge and in the case of coloured metallic and gold foils the colour will
gradually fade. This may occur after blocking where work is stacked. In our range there are
foils designed to reduce this possibility. However, because circumstances at the time of
blocking are beyond our control, we cannot assume any liability and would stress that tests for
plasticiser migration be carried out before any blocking is attempted on such substrates, and
test prints be subjected to heat and pressure for a period of two or three days.
Oxidation
Some metallic foils and imitation bronze powder foils when blocked onto natural leathers may
eventually be affected by oxidation. They can also corrode when in contact with any acidity on
the substrate. Imitation bronze foils may also have a tendency to smear slightly.
Foil Storage Conditions
Most standard foils can be stored safely under normal conditions, i.e., at temperatures between
5 degrees C (40 degrees F) and 20 degrees C (68 degrees F) and a relative humidity of between
30% and 70%. Care should be taken to avoid storage close to heating pipes and radiators, or in
direct sunlight.
Special care should be taken when storing low temperature grades. Rolls should not be
subjected to high temperature, or pressure, which could result in delamination. Rolls should be
stood on end, avoid stacking rolls horizontally.
Core Sizes
Foil is normally wound onto a 25mm (1") internal diameter cardboard core. Foils can be
supplied on 17mm (5/8"), 40mm (1.57"), 76mm (3") and 152mm (6") cores on special request.
Roll Widths and Lengths
Standard widths are 610mm, 640mm (depending on grade) and 1280mm. Standard lengths are
61m, 122m, 244m and 305m. Other lengths are available on request such as 183m, 500m,
1000m, 1500m and 2000m.
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Foiling Ultra Violet Cured Varnishes
Ultra Violet (UV) cured varnishes are varnishes from the acrylate resin family that include a
photo-initiator. This reacts with the light from UV lamps, triggering a reaction which causes the
varnish to cure and dry instantaneously.
UV varnishes give a high gloss, abrasion-resistant finish.
process time and makes coating much more compact.
The instant drying also reduces
For foil blockers, however, UV cured surfaces present particular problems owing to their
relatively low surface energy. Also, there is a tendency to include additives such as waxes and
silicones to increase the gloss or to act as a slip aid. Such additives can further reduce the
surface energy below that level necessary for successful foil blocking.
Another related problem is that of differential curing over coloured inks. Lighter coloured inks
will reflect back more UV light than dark ones, with the effect that the coating over a lighter
printed area cures faster. On a sheet with, for example, black ink and white areas, the varnish
can be properly cured over the white area and under cured on the black.
It is usually easy to get an indication of the degree of cure of a UV varnish. Simply wipe a
cotton wool swab moistened with an aggressive solvent such as MEK over the lacquer surface
and note the number of wipes taken to break through the lacquer. A properly cured varnish
should resist 10 double wipes.
A useful field method is to fold a piece of UV coated card in two and rub the surfaces together.
If they slip over each other without friction or resistance, it is likely that the surfaces are too
glossy for foil blocking. If there is some sticking or friction, the surface should be reasonably
foil-receptive, although other factors can, of course, prevent successful blocking.
Under Cured Varnishes
Blockers need to ensure that UV surfaces are properly cured. A UV varnish that is normally
blockable can give problems if it is under cured. In extreme cases, the varnish will be tacky, or
will smell strongly. In less obvious situations the foil will give poor adhesion or will blister,
known as "gassing".
Under curing can result from:
* inadequate level of photo-initiators in the varnish. (They are expensive and economies
may have been attempted by the coater.)
* excessive web speed, giving too little curing time.
* too few or dirty UV lamps, providing insufficient light for curing.
* too high a coating weight of varnish being applied.
Recommendations for Successful Foil Blocking
Where difficulties are encountered, we suggest:
* turning the sheet over and printing on the reverse. If the foil prints well, it confirms that
the UV surface is the problem.
o
* turning the sheet through 180 and print again to show up any differential curing and to
check if the problem lies with the dies or the press.
* putting the sheet through the curing process again - this could well correct any fault due
to under curing.
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* resisting the urge to increase blocking temperature as this usually exacerbates
the problem.
* that, if problems persist, samples are submitted to MILFORD ASTOR for evaluation.
Corona Treatment
Hitherto unprintable surfaces can be made blockable by Corona discharge treatment. However,
on UV surfaces, the effects of this treatment dissipate very quickly and the sheets should be
blocked within 12 hours at the most.
Over Varnishing / Printing
With the increased use of foils for such applications as magazine covers, foil stampers should
be aware that not all foils will accept after varnishing be they conventional or UV. It is always
wise to test.
Venting of Dies
6.35mm
0.250"
A common problem associated with the flat stamping die is flashing. Flashing occurs as a
natural process when all elements come together and causes the foil to transfer in unwanted
areas of your image. A common spot is the middle of an O or trapped area forming a
compressed air pocket.
When the flat stamping die is etched to its common depth of 0.889mm, the inside of type may
be as shallow as 0.127mm. When air is heated and trapped, it will transfer one ton of pressure
per square inch, and transfer foil in undesirable locations.
Venting these areas by drilling a hole will let the heated air escape into the honeycomb.
How to Order Foils
Having selected the colour of your choice, refer to the industry application section for the grade
most suitable for your application.
Caution
The information in this catalogue is based on our experience and research as well as that of our
customers and is correct to the best of our knowledge. However, as we have no control over
user conditions, we cannot accept liability. You are advised to carry out your own testing.
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Hot Stamping History,
Stamping Equipment
Manufacture
&
Hot stamping is the method of transferring a metallic or pigment finish from a
carrier strip, known as a foil, onto a substrate using heat, pressure and time.
Described here is the history of this process, the types of hot stamping foils
available today, the method of manufacture and other important factors to be
considered when foiling a product.
History
On July 24th, 1892, Dr Ernest Oeser first patented the production of both gold and
coloured stamping foils using 23 carat gold or bronze (copper and zinc) powder with
a dye to obtain the necessary colour. Both these foils were supported by a glassine
(paper) carrier strip.
This process had some limitations. Real gold was too expensive, being approximately eight to ten times more costly than the vacuum metallised type foils used
today; and also bronze powder foils tarnished. Tarnishing is caused by the copper
oxidising, also the dyes available at that time were not completely light stable and
so the foils faded.
Other alternatives were considered and in the early 1950's vacuum metallised foils,
using aluminium were developed. This method is still used today and there is no
foreseeable change.
Foils Available Today
The range today includes genuine gold (23 carat), bronze powder, imitation golds
and metallic colours (vacuum metallised) pigments (flat, semi-gloss and gloss)
psychedelic, multi-colour, woodgrain and marble effects, brushed finishes,
chrome, leather look, clear, pearlescents and holographic.
Foil Selection
In hot stamping, a pigmented or metallised coated foil is transferred from a carrier,
usually polyester film, and fused to a substrate. Therefore, it is essential that the
pigmented or metallised coat be compatible with the material to be stamped. For
this reason, hot stamping foils are manufactured in various formulations designed
to give quality prints on a specific material. Also incorporated in the foils are
qualities such as abrasion resistance, oil and grease resistance, and chemical
resistance. Gloss, semi-gloss and matt finishes are available in a wide range of
colours.
Where formulation or colour is not satisfactory, custom made foils are obtainable.
Method of Manufacture
Vacuum metallised foils are commonly used today. A production roll of polyester
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Milford Astor
coating machine to have the wax release coating applied. This is then dried by radiant
heat before the film continues to the next coating to have the colour lacquer applied, after
which it is re-rolled and then placed into a continuous vacuum metallising machine. It
then goes to the third coating machine to have the adhesive coat applied. The foil is
inspected for pin holes and defects and is re-rolled into the length required by the end
user, normally 122m or 305m rolls.
The only difference between the manufacture of metallised and pigment foil is that
pigment foils do not have a vacuum metallised coating. Instead of the lacquer used for
gold and other metallic finishes a pigmented coating similar to ink is used.
From the diagram it may be seen that a foil comprises up to five layers and in each case
these may be varied to achieve the optimum result for different applications. Refer to
Diagram A below.
Carrier Film: There are basically six types, namely paper, cellulose, polypropylene,
acetate, polythene and polyester film. These vary in thickness from 12 micron (most
commonly used today) up to 50 micron. Most popular is 12 micron polyester. The heavier
carrier is used for stamping complicated plastic parts where a thin carrier tends to tear or
distort. Heavy carriers are also used when stamping large areas as this enables the foil to
lay flat on the job, thus facilitating the operation.
Release Coating: This is generally a wax which, as the heat is applied to the carrier, melts
and releases the other layers from the carrier. Many wax releases are available, ranging
from very easy to very tight. This can mean the difference between coverage on large
areas and obtaining fine detail.
Colour Coating: This varies in thickness. For fine definition a thin colour coat is
necessary; for large areas and where opaqueness is required a thick colour coat is used.
Vacuum Metallised Coating: Generally this does not vary, although in extreme cases a
heavier coating may be required.
Adhesive or Size Coating: This is probably the most important layer in the manufacture
of foil as it varies according to the substrate being stamped. For example, the adhesive
required for stamping paper is completely different from that needed when stamping
plastic bottles.
It is obvious that one foil cannot be selected to do all jobs. There is no universal foil that
will stamp all substrates. All the above details should be taken into consideration if the
best results are to be obtained.
Diagram A
PIGMENT FOIL
VACUUM METALLISED FOIL
HOT STAMPING DIE
HOT STAMPING DIE
CARRIER FILM
RELEASE COATING
COLOUR COATING
SIZE COATING
CARRIER FILM
RELEASE COATING
COLOUR COATING
METALLISED COATING
SIZE COATING
MATERIAL TO BE
HOT STAMPED
MATERIAL TO BE
HOT STAMPED
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Equipment Selection: Equipment selection will be determined by the design of
the article to be stamped, and production rate required.
Hand fed presses hot stamp up to 1200 parts per hour. Production from 1200 to
3000 parts per hour can be expected from a turntable equipped press, and even
greater output is possible from a clam action press, cylinder or roll-on press. The
basic types of presses are shown in Diagram C
39.
B on page 8.
1.1.
Vertical air-operated presses with a capacity of 0.25 to 6.0 tonnes. These are
mainly used for light duty stamping with metal dies or silicone pads. Vertical
presses compensate for variations in part thickness as they do not have a
fixed stop or mechanical linkage, the head of the press continues to travel
until it reaches the stamping surface and then builds up pressure to transfer
the foil to the part.
2.2.
Air toggle presses with a capacity of 3 to 16 tonnes. The primary purpose of the
air cylinder on these presses is to actuate a mechanical linkage which exerts
greater pressure. Toggle action presses are capable of stamping parts up to
1200mm long x 600mm wide and have become popular owing to their capacity
and versatility. Another advantage of these presses is that with a fully opened
toggle, the head always descends to a pre-set position for uniform stamping.
This is dependent on a uniform wall thickness of the part.
3.3.
Roll-on presses make possible a partial or complete stamping of the periphery
of cylindrical objects and also large flat contoured areas. These presses are airoperated and incorporate a mechanical adjustment for die pressure. Air
ejection is available as optional equipment. Output of 800 to 2000 parts per
hour can be expected. Multiple colour stampings can be achieved on this
equipment providing the colours are on separate lines and a separation of 1.5
3mm is maintained between colours. This type of equipment is recommended
for hot stamping odometer and counter wheels, lipstick tubes, knobs,
television escutcheons, auto dash panels, plastic bottles and air conditioning
grills.
4.4.
Clam shell mechanically operated presses with automatic feeding and
restacking of the product. These presses are used for such products as
greeting cards, letterheads and cartons.
5.5.
Cylinder presses, based on the cylinder letterpress machine where the hot
plate is mounted to the moving bed usually have autofeed and restacking
facilities. These presses are used for foiling large sheets of paper and board.
6.6.
Rotary letterpress machines, used for reel to reel pressure sensitive label
making are capable of running up to speeds of 300 meters per minute.
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Milford Astor
B
Diagram C
HAND OPERATED PRESS
CLAM ACTION PRESS
TOGGLE ACTION PRESS
FOILING SECTION
OF ROTARY LABEL
PRESS
ROLL-ON PRESS FOR PLASTICS & MDF
DIRECT ACTION
AIR OPERATED PRESS
CYLINDER HOT FOIL PRESS
WITH AUTO FEED
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Milford Astor
Foil Selection Guide
Metallic Foils - For Graphics
It is always advisable to check availability of stock
Grade EDJ
Easy Release Foil
Grade EFA
Tight Release Foil
Grade EFE
Easy Release Foil
Grade EFF
Medium Release Foil
Grade 537
Easy Release Foil
Grade GP
Medium Release Foil
Grade UNC
Easy Release Foil (Overstampable)
Grade OVP
Medium Release Foil (Overprintable)
Grade LCF
Cold Foil (Free Radical Type)
Available in shades 000, 001, 027, 029
Available in shades 001, 002, 006, 013,
017, 027, 028, 029
013, 017, 025, 027, 029, 036, 091, 095,
097, 266
027, 029, 036, 241, 257, 260, 261, 262,
266, 267, 268, 269, 299, 308
Available in shades 002, 008, 029,
And others on request.
Available in shades 385, 428, SM, SBR
Available in shades 385, 425, 428, SM,
SBR
Available in shades 385, SBR
Available in shades 000, 385
Suitable for coated and uncoated papers and boards, acetate, blockable UV
inks and varnishes on platen and cylinder machines.
Temperature range 100 - 120 degrees C.
Fine detail foil for smooth and coated paper stocks, leather and wood.
General purpose foil for large areas, suitable for dry and smooth papers and
boards. Ideal for fast running machines such as Bobst, Gietz and Heidelberg
cylinder machines.
Fine detail to medium solid work on plain papers and boards. Also suitable for
blockable UV inks and varnishes.
General purpose foil for large areas, suitable for dry and smooth surfaces.
Ideal for fast running machines such as, Bobst, Gietz and Heidelberg cylinder
machines.
Versatile foil offering medium release whilst producing fine clean
impressions. Suitable for coated and uncoated stocks, most inks, lacquers
and OPP laminates.
Suitable for rotary, cylinder and platen machines.
Versatile foil offering easy release, produces clean, sharp impressions.
Suitable for coated stock and very suitable for uncoated stocks. Overstamps
most coatings, inks and UV varnishes.
Suitable for coated and uncoated stocks. Overstamps most coatings, inks
and UV varnishes.
Fast release up to 300m/minute. Requires special “adhesive” which is readily
available.
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Milford Astor
Metallic Foils - For Graphics
(continued)
Grade 700 Series
Medium Release Foil
Grade 045
Medium Release Foil
Grade 100
Medium Release Foil
Available in shades 10, 23, 33, 46, 64,
70
Available in shade 000
Suitable for many types of papers and boards. Will print on most inks,
lacquers and blockable UV varnishes.
Suitable for use on platen and cylinder machines.
Suitable for all types of smooth papers and boards. Will print on most inks
and UV varnishes, for fine to medium print definition.
Temperature range 110 - 150 degrees C,
Grade 101
General purpose foil for most types of stocks including plastic coated, Celloglazed varnished & UV varnished papers and boards. General purpose foil for
most plastics including PP, PE and ABS.
Grade 140 000
Easy Release Foil
Grade 140 300
Available in a shade similar to 001
Suitable for parchment, leather, nylon polymer, satin acetate, all types of
papers and boards for medium to large detail.
Grade 030
Medium Release Foil
Grade GFE
Easy Release Foil
Available in shades 10, 14, 23, 26, 33,
60, 62, 64
123, 127, 241, 257, 260, 261, 262, 267,
268, 269, 277, 299, 308
Suitable for credit card tipping. General purpose, will suit most stocks.
General purpose foil for large areas, suitable for dry and smooth papers and
boards. Developed for scuff resistance of embossed image areas. Ideal
for fast running machines such as Bobst, Gietz, and Heidelberg cylinder
machines.
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Milford Astor
Metallic Foils - For Plastics, Leathers & Fabrics
Grade EFF
Medium to Tight Release Foil
Grade 591
Medium Release Foil
Grade 595
Easy Release Foil
Grade 100
Medium Release Foil
029, 036, 241, 257, 260, 261, 262, 266,
267, 268, 269, 299, 308
Available in shades 000, 001, 011
Suitable for ‘tipping’ conventional plastics such as styrene and PVC.
Suitable for PVC, leather and some fabrics.
Suitable for PVC, leather and some fabrics.
Grade 101
An extremely flexible foil suitable for most plastics including polypropylene,
polyethylene, ABS and styrene. Excellent high temperature performance.
Grade 140 000
Easy Release Foil
Grade 140 300
Suitable for parchment, leather, nylon polymer, grained book cloth, satin
ribbons and all types of papers and boards for medium to large detail.
Grade M 160 Series
Medium Release Foil
Grade YS
Medium Release Foil
Grade PS GG2
Medium Release Foil
Grade PT SLI
Tight Release Foil
Available in shade 000 and a shade
similar to 029
Very flexible foil for rigid plastics such as ABS and styrene, but especially for
polypropylene and polyethylene. High resistance to diluted acids. Fine to
medium coverages, metal die.
Suitable for some PVC and polyolefins.
Very universal quality for the plastics industry. Suitable for use on PS, PVC,
ABS, SAN and PET. Excellent for ‘tipping’ eg. Shampoo bottles.
Suitable for roll on application using metal or rubber dies for blown bottles, PE
and PP.
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Milford Astor
Matt Pigment Foils
Grade CDF
Date Coding Foil
Grade CDF A Series
Date Coding Foil
Grade CDF P Series
Date Coding Foil
Grade CDF 4 Series
Date Coding Foil
Grade CDF 5 Series
Medium Release Foil
Grade CDF PH Series
Cold Stamping Foil
Grade DAG
Scratch Off Foil
Grade DAH
Medium to Soft Release Foil
Grade DBA
Tight Release, Fine to Medium Detail
Grade DBF
Tight Release Foil
Grade DBJ
Medium to Soft Release Foil
Grade DCB
Easy Release Foil
Grade DHE
Easy Release Foil
Grade LT
Easy Release Foil
Available in shades 1, 3, 4, 6, 9
021, 025
018, 021, 025, 031, 073, 171, 178, 180,
184, 205, 206, 625, 626, 632
Available in shades 001, 012, 018, 021
Available in shades 1, 3, 4, 6, 9
Versatile product. Applications include packaging films such as polyethylene,
cellophane, right through to some label stocks.
Specially formulated, gives extra adhesion for foil tablet packs, foiled Easter
egg packs, for use when other coding foils scratch off.
High speed application ideally suited to low melt packaging films.
Polyethylene, vinyl and frozen food bags.
Fine detail, suitable for varnished pharmaceutical labels, cheese packs and
other vacuum packed foods.
Suitable for large area prints, gives this series a wide scope of applications,
including date coding.
Used by bakeries to mark styrene bread bag seals.
Suitable for gloss boards, inks, UV varnishes, plastics such as credit cards,
phone cards and game cards. Temperature range 110 - 130 degrees C.
Bronze foil that can be overprinted. Resistant to smudge. Suitable for a very
wide range of substrates. Temperature range 110 - 150 degrees C.
Suitable for most coated or smooth papers and boards. Also suitable for
nylon, styrene and PVC.
Extra fine detail foil. Ideal for coated papers and boards.
Temperature range 110 -150 degrees C.
Bronze powder type. Suitable for a very wide range of substrates, including
polyurethane and polypropylene. Take care, this foil could corrode and rub off
if in contact with carbon and acidic substrates.
Suitable for a large range of substrates including coated and uncoated stocks,
ABS, acetate, acrylic, cellophane and styrene.
Suitable for a large range of substrates including coated and uncoated
papers, boards and plastic films. Temperature range 100 - 150 degrees C.
Suitable for a large range of substrates, including coated and uncoated
stocks.
12
Milford Astor
Gloss Pigment Foils For Plastics
Grade A Series
Medium Release Foil
Grade B Series
Fine Release Foil
Grade DFJ
Tight Release Foil
Grade PP1
Medium Release Foil
Grade PS1
Medium Release Foil
Grade Y Series
Tight Release Foil
Grade SV Series
Quick Release Foil
Available in B12A White, B10A Black,
B24A Yellow
Available in B233PR Black
Available in shade 021 Black
Available in shades
1016 White
4728 Dark Red
6721 Dark Blue
7028 Dark Green
9110 Black
Available in shades
1041 White
4088 Dark Red
6061 Light Blue
6237 Dark Blue
9001 Black
Available in shades
064 White
93 Black
Available in shades
59724 Black
56759 Blue
54757 Red
Suitable for polyethylene, PVC, acrylic, ABS, acetate, polypropylene, metal or
rubber dies.
Designed for polypropylene and polyethylene, metal dies.
Suitable for ABS, styrene, acetate, nylon and PVC.
Suitable for polyethylene, polypropylene, vertical and roll on presses.
Suitable for acrylic, styrene and ABS.
Designed for polypropylene and polyethylene but also suitable for styrene,
ABS, metal dies.
Designed for stamping onto soft vinyl, such as IV bags and blood bags.
For Shades Available Request Samples
13
Milford Astor
Semi-Gloss Pigment Foils For Plastics
Grade Semi-Gloss
Available in shades
SI9 230 White
SH9 231 Black
SA 9232 Red
SC9 234 Yellow
SB9 237 Orange
SD9 238 Dark Green
SD9 233 Light Green
SE9 239 Dark Blue
SE9 240 Light Blue
SG9 241 Brown
Easy Release General Purpose Foil
This low temperature foil shows excellent results on soft PVC and
polypropylene but is also suitable for most other plastics using metal dies.
Rubber dies can be used when required. This grade is ideal for a second
surface on clear plastic. Also suitable on some leathers.
Temperature range 110 - 200 degrees C, depending on the type of plastic
being stamped.
For Shades Available Request Samples
Gloss Pigment Foils (for a variety of applications)
Grade DFJ
Easy Release Foil
Grade DFD
Medium Release Foil
Grade FFF
Medium Release Foil
192, 193, 194, 226, 227, 228, 479
Available in shade 000 (clear)
Grade CC
Suitable for coated and uncoated papers, credit card tipping, styrene and
ABS. Not suitable for plasticised surfaces. Can be used as an alternative to
DFD. Temperature range 110 - 130 degrees C.
Transparent gloss foil, excellent fine detail and large area properties on gloss
white paper and acetates. Substrate colours cause colour change owing to
transparent nature of foil, therefore it is suggested for use on gloss white
substrates only. Can be used with other colours to give special effects.
Used to increase gloss level on printed surface, for highlighting.
Tight Release Foil
Suitable for credit card tipping.
14
Milford Astor
Pearl Foils
Grade DFE
Medium Release Foil
Grade DFF
Easy Release Foil
114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 125,
214, 220, 471, 472, 474, 475, 621, 622
621
Suitable for coated and uncoated papers and boards.
Suitable for coated and uncoated papers and boards.
15
Milford Astor
Metallic Foils for Rotary & Cylinder Presses
Grade GP
Medium Release Foil
Grade UNC
Easy Release Foil (Overstampable)
Grade OVP
Medium Release Foil (Overstampable)
Available in shades 385, 428, SM, SBR
Available in shades 385, 425, 428, SM,
SBR
Versatile foil offering medium release while producing fine clean impressions.
Suitable for coated and uncoated stocks, most inks, lacquers and OPP
laminates.
Suitable for coated stock and very suitable for uncoated stocks. Overstamps
most coatings, inks and UV varnishes.
Versatile foil offering easy release, produces clean sharp impressions.
Suitable for coated and uncoated stocks. Overstamps most coatings, inks
and UV varnishes.
We have a seperate article written on “Rotary Hot Stamp Process”.
It is available on request.
16
Milford Astor
Specialty Foils
Security - Holographic
We are specialist suppliers of optical variable devices (OVD’s) for brand authentication
and security applications. Bank note and high security markets include passports, ID
systems, government documents, stamps, travellers’ cheques, gift vouchers, travel
tickets, event tickets and cheques. Brand protection markets include licensed
merchandise, pharmaceuticals, automotive parts, fashion industry and software
industry.
Products include holograms-2D, 3-D, transfer foils and labels, tamper evident
holographic labels, holographic tear tapes, holographic hot stamp foils and holographic
thread.
Packaging - Holographic
Holographic film, laminates and papers find applications in label manufacture,
packaging, confectionery, snackfood, detergent, health care, cosmetics, wine and
spirits, display, point of sale and publishing.
Foils for Timber / Medium Density Fibreboard
Specialty foils for timber products such as picture frames, trophies, furniture, kitchen
cabinets, etc, are available in a range of patterns and colours including solid colours,
woodgrains, marbles and special effects. Pattern and colour matching service is also
available.
Washable Foils for Textiles and Apparel
For the textile and apparel industries, there is a range of washable hot stamp foils for
garment care labels.
A range of fabrics for garment care labels is also available. These include white, pearl
and black nylon, pearl and matt white non-woven polyester.
Cold Foil
This series of metallic foils requires no heated die. Requires application in conjunction
with a free-radical cold foiling adhesive which is UV activated. Generally used on web
fed machinery such as Gallus, Nilpeter, or any UV curing printing machine.
We have aarticle
separate
article written
on “Cold
Foil Application”.
We have a seperate
written
on “Cold
Foil Application”.
It is available
on request.
It is available
on request.
17
GRADE
Co S
a U
U ted B
nc P S
U oat ape TR
V e r
A
d
M Inks Pa and TE
at a p B S
G t Pa nd er a oa
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s
Co s P ers arn d B s
nv ap an ish oa
W en er d es rds
at ti s a Bo
H erle ona nd ard
D s l
B s
P s
LD E In Ink oar
ks s & d
PE
s
PE
Va
rn
Fi
is
PP lm
he
s
PS
PV
C
PV Ri
C gid
PV So
C ft
PE Fil
T m
O
PP
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Po
ly
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cr t
y h
Po lic an
e
ly
A est
BS e
r
D
el
rin
Ep
o
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V
N
yl
o
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ce
Po tate
ly
Le car
at b
W he
oo r
La d
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br re
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flo
oo
CA n
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ta
te
Milford Astor
Quick Application Reference
Your guide to the optimum foil grade for your substrate.
030
045
050
055
100
101
140 000
140 300
A
B
CC
CDF
CDF 4
CDF 5
CDF/PH
CDF A
CDF P
COLD FOILS
DAG
DAH
DBA
DBF
DBJ
DCB
DEJ
DFD
DFE
DFF
DFJ
DHE
537
EDJ
EFA
EFE
EFF
EFJ
591
595
700
GFE
GP
M160
OVP
PP1
PS 220
PS1
PT SLI
UNC
SC,SE,SG
SI,SH,SA,SD
Y SERIES
YSG2
18
Milford Astor
Hot Stamping Operation
The hot stamping operation is a function of four variables: die temperature, dwell time,
pressure and stripping time. (Stripping time is not so important in graphic arts
application).
Die Temperature is generally controlled by a thermostat or temperature controller,
which is capable of maintaining head heat under normal cycle speeds in a range of 100
- 170 degrees C. Fluctuations from the set temperature should not exceed plus or
minus 5 degrees C.
The temperature control should be set only high enough to bring the foil and the part to
a plastic state. Excessive heat will cause decomposition of the resin used in the foil
and prevent its adhesion to the part. Other indications of excessive heat are flaking
where the foil bridges between borders (or leaves fuzzy edges which flake off when
rubbed), discolouration, and dullness of the stamping. Since the correct plastic
temperatures of resins are a known factor, charts have been compiled giving the
proper temperature settings for the various foil formulations and plastic materials to be
stamped. These charts should be used in setting temperatures on new jobs.
Normally, only minor adjustments from these temperatures will be necessary on a
specific job. Experience gained with these settings will indicate that slight variations
from the standard settings can be controlled by the dwell timer rather than by changing
the temperature control.
Care should be taken to ensure good contact between the die and the head of the
press to prevent heat loss and maintain adequate heat flow. Use of higher
temperatures to increase the depth of penetration of the die, to complete transfer
on an uneven or improperly supported part, or to increase wear resistance should be
avoided. Depth of penetration should be a function of pressure, not heat.
Dwell Time is the second variable. To determine the proper dwell setting, start with
the shortest dwell and increase the time in small increments until a full transfer is
achieved. The shortest dwell should be measured from the time the die comes in
contact with the part and not from the zero reading on the timer, since the timer starts
when the head begins its downward stroke. In recording dwell time for future use, the
dwell time should be measured from initial contact, since head speeds vary from press
to press.
As dwell time is a factor in determining the rate of production, it is obvious that the
fastest dwell setting is desirable. To accomplish this, heat should be raised by
increments of 5 - 10 degrees C. Once the heat has stabilised at the new setting,
reduce the dwell time to just above the point of incomplete transfer.
Pressure determines the depth of penetration of the stamp below the surface of the
part. Of equal importance is the matter of head velocity which controls die impact.
Also to be considered is a mechanical depth stop control.
On toggle presses the depth of penetration is set by raising or lowering the worktable. When the toggle is closed, the head will always stop at the same point.
19
Milford Astor
On direct-acting air presses, the depth of penetration is set by raising or lowering the
work table (on some presses of this type, the entire head of the press can be lowered
to achieve the same effect).
With metal dies, use of low head pressure to control depth of penetration results in
changing dwell times and erratic transfer. To obtain a mechanical stop and minimise
head speed variations, which affect dwell time, close to the maximum recommended
air pressure should be used. This is normally 80 - 100 p.s.i. and in most cases never
below 50 p.s.i. Note that air pressure at the press should be set approximately 10
p.s.i. below line pressure to eliminate fluctuations due to the on-off cycle of the
compressor. Such fluctuations would result in erratic timing. Speed applications
should be set high enough to achieve the penetration and slow enough to prevent
damage to the part and die.
Rules for tipping raised areas with silicone rubber pads are different to those for
metal dies because the head velocity must be reduced to give a light 'kiss'
impression. Head stop control also is extremely important since excessive repetitive
compression of the silicone pad at high velocities will result in poorer quality
stamping and more rapid breakdown of the silicone pad. Use of make-ready to build
up areas of no transfer once the head stop control has been set, enabling the silicone
pads to just contact the part, is preferable to a pressure increase. This is extremely
important with plated metallic foils since excessive pressure will result in a dull finish.
Stripping Time is the fourth variable. After the hot die has lifted off the part,
sufficient time must be allowed for the transferred material to cool and harden on the
part. The carrier is now stripped from the part and the transfer is complete.
Obviously, stripping the carrier while the resin is still in the plastic state will result in
incomplete transfer or pulling the pigment and even some resin away. Proper
adjustment of the foil stripper bars can assist this situation.
In the case of a travelling foil feed, as the die starts its downward motion, the stripper
bars push the foil ahead of the die onto the part. As the die continues downward, the
stripper bars hold the foil onto the part until the head returns. As the compressed
springs are released, the stripper bars rise, separating the foil from the part. Most
machines now have foil feed delay timers fitted.
If longer cooling time is required, the foil feed delay time should be increased. On
machines without foil feed delay timers, the stripper bars must be set lower. The
proper cycle should be set by laying the foil onto the part by hand. Then, the foil
should be threaded through the press with the stripper bars adjusted so that the foil
passes 12mm below the die. After making a test stamping, the stripper bars should
be lowered until transfer is complete. In extreme cases where stripper bars cannot
be lowered sufficiently, the foil feed should be slowed down.
Conclusion: The hot stamping process is ideally suited to the decoration of many
products. Being a dry printing process, parts can be packed immediately at the
machine. Stampings are permanent and inexpensive. As it is a simple process,
Operator training is minimised. By following the procedures outlined in this
catalogue, trouble-free hot stamping can be achieved.
20
Milford Astor
Bottle Stamping & Roll-on Stamping
The technology matches the workpiece
The mechanics of the stamping process vary depending on the type and shape of the
workpiece to be enhanced. The most important difference between the various
design principles is the method by which the pressure is transferred from the
stamping tool to the workpiece. On this basis the various methods are vertical
stamping, circumferential marking, inflation stamping for bottles and similar hollow
bodies and roll-on stamping.
!
1.
Vertical Stamping
The presses for this process, in which the stamping tool moves vertically up and
down at each stroke, are generally termed “vertical presses” in enhancement of
plastics. Depending on the system used to generate the pressure they are
divided into mechanically, pneumatically and electromagnetically operating
vertical presses.
In the pure vertical stamping process
flat parts can be stamped using a
flat tool, convex parts using a
corresponding shaped concave tool
and concave parts using a convex tool
to match the workpiece.
With
curvatures, the stamping angle should
not exceed 90o. Up to 25% of the
circumference of a cylindrical part
can be enhanced using vertical
stamping provided the tools match the
workpieces.
These are maximum
figures which only apply if the radii are
sufficiently large.
!
2.
Circumferential Marking
Hot stamping can be performed “all around the workpiece” on presses which
are similar in their basic design to vertical presses. Special holding fixtures,
rotating supports and horizontal guides for the workpiece complete the
stamping presses for circumferential marking. The special feature of this
process is that a cylindrical workpiece (can, sleeve, tube, screw cap) is rolled
under a flat stamping tool and the foil is stationary.
The back pressure is produced by two support rollers on which the cylindrical
workpiece rotates. The support rollers and the workpiece holding fixture
(location pin) together form the rolling device and are carried forwards
horizontally by means of a drive system (support).
The forward
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Milford Astor
drive is controlled pneumatically or electrically while the roll-on movement is
usually mechanically controlled.
Numbering wheels, too, are normally stamped by this method. Special
equipment allows extremely accurate automatic positioning of the injection
moulded part.
Using this process it is also easy to stamp
slight conical parts, the die being shifted
somewhat on the workpiece to even out
the difference in the roll-on speed of the
large and small diameters.
Parts with a conical angle of over 1o to 2o
must be positioned on a special roll-on
device, which permits the workpiece to
rotate around the imagined apex of the
cone. Parts which are strongly conical
cause difficulties for circum-ference
m a r k i n g, b e c a u s e t h e d i f f e r e n t
circumferential speeds of the large and
small diameters make it almost
impossible to foil.
In circumferential marking the location of
the stamping die must always be in
register with the hartline of the moulding.
The lowest temperature for the platen and stamping tool during the working
stroke is accurately determined by the depth stop. This device restricts the
downward motion of the pump rod in pneumatic systems when pressure builds
up in the cylinder by means of a mechanical stop.
In circumferential marking the roll-on device is moved from one end setting to the
other end setting. The roll-on speed is controlled and the distance rolled by a
time switch or limit switch. The stamping process begins, as soon as the front
edge of the heated tool comes into contact with the circumference of the
workpiece. It continues until the rear end of the stamping tool is reached.
When the workpiece makes initial contact or leaves the stamping tool,
excessively deep or insufficiently deep stamping may occur, depending on the
stamped image. This can be counteracted by attaching a front or end piece
made from thermally insulating material (laminated plastic) at the beginning and
end of the stamping tool. A corresponding lateral mask of insulating material
helps to support the stamping die on the workpiece and also prevents the tool
sinking too deeply into the surface of the workpiece.
Parts which need to have the stamped image matched precisely with a functional
edge or another printed image, are rolled under positive drive. For this a pinion is
attached on the axle of the workpiece holding fixture. The diameter of the
pitched circle of this pinion coincides with the diameter
22
Milford Astor
under the stamped image. When
the roller device is moved forward
the pinion meshes in a gear rack
and drives the workpiece.
With positive drive as with rolling
under friction, the line connecting
the axes of the supporting rollers
should form an angle of approx 90o
with the axis of the workpiece.
3.
Bottle Stamping
This variation of hot stamping was
developed for hollow bodies, in
which the back pressure required
for hot stamping cannot be
produced by mechanical means
because of their shape and elasticity.
Hot stamping is carried out in this case in a two part mould, which fits exactly
round the external contours of the plastic bottle. The bottle is laid in the lower
half of the open mould. The upper half of the mould contains the stamping tool,
which must also be matched exactly to the contours of the bottle, and the guides
for the stamping foil.
The hot stamping process is as follows: the two halves of the shroud are closed,
and the bottle is inflated through a mouthpiece via a control valve using
compressed air at approx. 8 to 10 bar. The expansion of the bottle causes the
wall of the bottle to be pressed against the stamping foil and the stamping tool
located above the bottle. The internal pressure in the bottle thus generates the
printing pressure for the hot stamping. The contact is ended by letting out the
compressed air. The shroud can now be opened and the hollow body removed.
4.
Roll-on Stamping
In this process a stamping tool in the form of a (normally externally) heated
silicone rubber roller is rolled over a workpiece on which stamp foil has been laid;
in this way lines, letters and decoration, which are embossed on the moulded
parts (relief injection moulded parts) can be coated with stamping foil as also can
flat surfaces and continuous sections.
A typical example of the roll-on method is the rotation of a round roller over a flat
surface, in which only a narrow continually moving zone is in contact (“line
contact”). The contact time is usually very short and has to be compensated for
by higher operating temperatures, and by the use of particularly easily releasing
stamping foils.
The workpieces are placed on a moving table or on a conveyor belt and are
moved forward at constant velocity under the stamping roller or stamping wheel.
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Milford Astor
The roll-on method is not limited, however, to flat objects. This process is
suitable, in principle, for any workpieces on which a stamping foil can lie
without creasing. This includes, for example, cylindrical, oval, square edged
and other convex bodies with parallel side lines running in the direction of the
stamping roller axis.
Using appropriately fitted stamping roller or wheels, even grooved profile
strips or external radii can be continuously stamped by the roll-on method. In
such cases excessive differences in the diameters in stamping wheels
should be avoided, since large differences in the circumferential speeds
cause folding in the stamping foil. With workpieces of this kind it is
recommended that very deep and raised parts of the cross section be
enhanced in separate operations. The same applies for very pronounced
curvatures, where a stamping angle of 120o would be obtained, for example,
by using two stamping wheels in series each at 65o. The applicability of this
technique depends naturally on the
decoration of the stamping foil
selected.
Typical examples of the use of the
roll-on process are housings for
sound and television equipment,
frames and furniture strips,
windscreens for motor vehicles and
other similar parts. In other words,
workpieces which are not suitable
for vertical stamping because of
their shape or for which the
necessary printing pressure cannot
be economically achieved in vertical
printing presses because of their
large surface area.
In this variation of the hot stamping
process the design of the workpiece
holding fixture requires much care.
much care.
Workpiece holding fixture for the roll-on
stamping of the front panel of an
instrument with windows: 1 – front
piece, 2 – core pieces, 3 – end piece,
each at the height of the workpiece, set
2mm away from the workpiece.
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Milford Astor
Thus, for example, front pieces must be positioned in front of the tool so that
the stamping roller is set down on a connected surface and not on the edge of
the workpiece. In this way a clear imprint is obtained and the silicone
stamping tool is protected. Front pieces also result in the longitudinal folds in
the stamping foil, which form when the stamping roller descends, being first
rolled flat. End pieces behind the workpiece have the effect of shifting the
problem zone when the stamping roller is lifted from the workpiece. Front and
end pieces must be at the exact height of the workpiece, as must the so-called
core pieces in the workpiece holding fixture which are used to fill large cutouts
(“Windows”) in the workpieces. Core pieces also help to prevent folds
forming in the stamping foil.
A particular variation of this process is roll-on stamping using a cylindrical
stamping tool, the circumference of which is covered with characters,
symbols, numbers, etc. This is used in particular for marking cables, plastic
pipes, for hot stamping continuously running packaging sheets, or for
decorative purposes.
Diagram B
C
TOOLING
1
3
Mandrell
Top surfaces
horizontal
Die
Part
Top Shroud
Air
Bottle
Part
4
Lay
Bottom
Shroud
2
Part
5
Part
Nest
Support
25
Milford Astor
Hot Stamping Substrates
Printing techniques concern the reproduction of written, pictorial and ornamental
images on paper, cardboard and similar materials. But hot stamping however is an
application well outside this definition. All wettable materials paper and board,
thermoplastics and duroplastics, leather and textiles, wood and many other materials
can be printed, stamped, coated, or refined with hot stamping foils: In brief, they can
be finished to a specification.
Cast Coated and Machine Coated Papers and Boards
These are among the least troublesome of print carriers and do not restrict the choice
of stamping foil. With cast coated types, pressure and temperature activate
adhesion of the surface coating, which benefits hot stamping. This intrinsic adhesive
action only has an undesirable effect in types coated both sides by causing the
printing sheet to stick to the packing. In such cases, easy release stamping foils,
which permit low stamping temperature, must be used in order not to activate the
intrinsic adhesive effect of the material. The make-ready should be covered, if it
consists of a plastic material such as Makrolon, etc., with a protective sheet. Easy
release types of stamping foil have proved more suitable for stamping solid areas
since compression force applied to the cardboard coating can be reduced. It can be
observed that the coating is pressure sensitive particularly in the case of cast coated
types with a relatively high unit weight, which can produce poor results in stamping
solid areas due to the formulation of shadows and small blemishes.
Papers and Boards with Smooth or Rough Surfaces
Untreated papers and boards are suitable for hot stamping as long as they are not
synthetic papers. A smooth surface structure permits great latitude in the use of
tight release or easy release stamping foils. The rougher the surface, the less the
latitude with the tight release types and the greater the latitude with the easy release
types of stamping foils. Easy release types of stamping foil come away from the
carrier under relatively slight temperature changes. Their adhesive layer is in most
cases formulated to produce a high bonding effect. Of the easy release types of
stamping foil, those with a thick, elastic coating, such as grade EFE and 140 should
be selected, to cover rough surfaces well. The degree of fineness of hot stampings
can suffer from rough surfaces, and the easy release types are necessary for this
purpose.
Lacquered, Coated or Foil-laminated Papers and Boards
Papers and boards with metallic plastic coatings, particularly involving the use of
polyolefins such as polyethylene, accept stamping foil only with great difficulty.
Particularly high demands are placed on the adhesion of the stamping foil by boards
that have been foil-laminated or specially coated with polypropylene, particularly with
areas of solid print or similar decoration. However, other surface coatings, such as,
Chromolux
Metallic
or Chromolux
Colour,
also
limit
stamping. Such
eg. Chromolux
Metallic
or Chromolux
Colour,
also
limitthe
theuse
useof
of hot
hot stamping.
Such
print
tend to
to gas
gas quickly.
quickly. Solid
print carriers
carriers tend
Solid areas
areas stamping
stamping should
should therefore
therefore be
be applied
applied
preferably
with rotary
rotaryor
orcylinder
cylinderstamping
stampingmachines.
machines.
preferably with
However, on all these print carriers hot stamping in the form of lettering, lines and
generally
be done without trouble using any machine.
small ornamental areas can be
generally
26
Milford Astor
It should also be borne in mind that subsequent damage from plasticisers can occur
not only with soft PVC foils, but also with PVC coated self-adhesive papers (plasticiserresistant stamping foils).
Leather Fibrous Substrates, Soft PVC Foils
Leather fibrous substances are normally less problematic printing materials. The
fineness of the hot stamping that can be executed is largely governed by the grain of
the surface. A rough surface of coarse grain refracts light, which can make fine
lettering illegible (“filling”). It should also be remembered that a good surface
covering is extremely difficult to obtain on coarse-grained materials since the grain
cannot be smoothly printed in the normal stamping procedure. Although very fine
lettering can be produced with tighter release stamping foils, it should not be done
below a certain limit. Soft PVC can also be hot stamped without much difficulty with
selected foils. With the normal stamping method the same restrictions apply as in the
case of leather, fibrous substances and grained, nitrocoated papers. For grained PVC
materials embossing is by high-frequency stamping methods, in which the area is
previously smoothed by high frequency embossing.
Creasing of Hot Stamped Impressions
If a crease or fold extending over the hot stamping impression is to be made in the
substrate, eg. in the production of folding boxes, it is absolutely essential to check
the “creasability” of the applied stamping foil in each case. It is not sufficient to
test the creasing behaviour of the “cardboard or paper” base material on principle.
All further finishings, such as offset printing, lacquering or foil lamination, affect the
creasability of a material. The same comments also apply to the “hot stamping”
finishing stage. We recommend that you check the creasability of the hot stamped
impression and substrate, at the beginning and during the production run. An
optical evaluation is not enough to ensure quality given the extreme stresses to
which a surface is subjected during folding and creasing, and in the carton gluing
machine after treatment. For this reason creasability must be supplemented by
passing the specimen through a gluing machine. Hot stamping near an area which
has to be later folded or creased must be subjected to the most thorough care and
quality checks.
27
Milford Astor
Stamping Dies
The collective term is used to cover all functional parts which transfer heat and
compressive force to the stamping foil and the workpiece during the hot stamping
process and whose surface layout determines the stamping image. In the wider
sense this also includes die plates, stamping rollers and wheels for large area transfer.
In the narrow sense we mean by stamping tools (so-called stamping dies), plates with
a surface design in three dimensions, the raised parts of which transfer the active
layers of stamping foil on to the surface of the workpiece.
Depending on the type of hot stamping process used (vertical stamping,
circumferential marking, bottle stamping, roll-on stamping) and the surface design of
the workpiece (plain, convex, concave), the stamping components on the stamping
die can lie on a flat, convex or concave plane. The difficulties in manufacturing curved
stamping tools do indeed have an effect on the price, but the basic demands placed
by hot stamping on the tools are much the same for all the different types.
Depending on the material used, the tools are divided into metal stamping dies and
silicone stamping dies.
Metal Stamping Dies
There are two different basic
manufacturing methods: etching
and engraving of stamping tools.
The materials suited for the
manufacture of etched stamping
tools are copper, magnesium, brass
and steel. The particular advantage
of etched stamping tools is that
the manufacturing method is
inexpensive, based on etching from
a photographically reproduced
original. Since the costs are based on
the size of the surface area of the
tool, it is an inexpensive method for
producing difficult motifs, eg.
ornaments, lines, large blocks of
of text.
text.
Subsequent engraving work is
sometimes necessary.
Magnesium
Etched
MagnesiumDie
Die.
Etched
EtchedCopper
CoperDie.
Die
28
Milford Astor
Engraved Metal Stamping Tools
Engravedsteel
steelstamping
stampingdie
diematched
matchedtoto
Engraved
the
workpiece
two
planes
the
workplace
onon
two
planes.
Stamping tools on which are placed strict requirements for accuracy and stability
are manufactured by precision engraving from brass or steel.
The hardness of brass is sufficient to make this material suitable for hot stamping
even in large runs. On the other hand brass is not as hard as steel and can be
worked more easily and is therefore also suitable for tools where a lot of material
has to be cut away from the blank, because of the design, eg. stamping tools for
vertical stamping and convex and concave parts and for bottle stamping.
Steel is becoming increasingly popular as a material for engraved stamping tools.
Steel stamping tools should be made from low distortion tool steel so that they
remain true to size even after hardening.
A hardened steel stamping die shows hardly any wear under normal load and is
therefore suitable for large runs. Since steel can be worked with particular
precision, special stamping tools for geometrical instruments, rulers and number
wheels should also be made in steel, as should stamping equipment with
interchangeable parts, such as type brackets.
Any slight damage on metal stamping tools, eg. caused by foreign bodies, can be
repaired by the specialist.
Where dies are purchased, the die vendor should be supplied with a sample, a print
or drawing of the part, and black and white artwork of the impression. The print
should be used for reference only and the part for matching. Artwork should be
drawn 1:1 for large dies and 2:1 for smaller dies. Photographic positive can be
substituted for black and white artwork. It should be noted that the sharper the
artwork, the sharper the die.
29
Milford Astor
Silicone Rubber Pads
Silicone Rubber Pads are used to hot stamp onto raised surfaces of plastic
mouldings, this process is called “tipping”. Silicone rubber is used because it can
withstand heat, and being elastic it will compensate for variations in the height of the
moulding. The raised surface may be a logo, lettering or a surround of a panel.
These are formed by engraving the plastic moulding die and should allow the raised
surface to be a minimum of 1.5mm high. Silicone rubber is available in thicknesses
from 1/32 to 1/4 inch bonded to either steel or aluminium of 1/32 or 1/8 inch
thickness. The thickness of the silicone selected will depend on the amount and
height of the raised area and the degree of distortion of the part. The following guide
to maximum desirable penetration by the part is suggested.
Rubber Thickness
Penetration
0.794mm (1/32 inch)
0.254 - 0.397mm (1/100 - 1/64 inch)
1.588mm (1/16 inch)
0.397 - 0.794mm (1/64 - 1/32 inch)
3.175mm (1/8 inch)
0.794 - 1.588mm (1/32 - 1/16 inch)
The deeper the penetration, the shorter the life of the silicone rubber. Sharp edges
on the plastic part should be avoided as they will cut into the pad and reduce its life.
Die temperatures of 150 - 200 degrees C (thermostat setting 200 - 250 degrees C) are
necessary. It should be noted that excess heat will cause delamination of the rubber
from its aluminium base and mechanical abuse will quickly damage the rubber face.
Correct usage of silicone rubber will result in a life of up to 20,000 - 30,000
impressions, increased brilliance of gold and silver foils, improved adhesion and
surface hardness, lower rejects, increased production and more uniform and
attractive prints.
Note that rubber pads should not be used carelessly to overcome poor alignment
between die and fixture bed; or to compensate for excessive sinks and distortions
caused by poor design and moulding techniques.
Moulded Silicone Rubber Dies
Moulded Silicone Rubber Dies are also used for first and second surface stamping of
plastic items, which are unusual in design, and where a 'laid on' foil effect rather than
an 'embossed' effect is required. They can also compensate, to a degree, for
irregularities in the part being stamped.
see
Tooling
Three basic materials are used for fixtures: epoxy, aluminium and steel (not
hardened). Fixtures serve two purposes. The first is to position the part
accurately under the stamping die. The second is to support the part properly
when pressure is applied by the die. Lack of proper support will allow the part to
shift out of position, causing stamping of uneven depth and missing prints. Poor
support may also result in cracking or crazing of the plastic and / or foil shown.in
diagram
B on
page
See
diagram
C on
page 39.
30
Milford Astor
Epoxy Fixtures are used mostly by stampers who must contend with short runs or
complex shapes. These fixtures usually are cast directly from the part to be stamped
and the back is either sanded or milled flat. They are also used to match irregular
surfaces or contours. Epoxy fixtures require continuous 'make-ready' throughout the
production run because they continually flatten due to the pressure and heat exerted
by the die. The term 'make-ready' refers to the use of tape, cork, rubber or other
materials to build up depressed areas of the fixture to properly support the part when
die pressure is exerted. See Make-ready, page 32.
Aluminium Fixtures are often used in the industry because of their ease of
workability, and because of reduced machining cost when compared to steel. One
disadvantage of aluminium is that the steel die will make an imprint on the fixture if
the operator lowers the head without placing a part on the fixture. In this case, the
fixture must be reworked to properly support the part.
Steel Fixtures offer the best results in quality stamping and provide protection
against damage due to accidental operation of the press. Steel fixtures can be silver
soldered or welded and hand filed to match the contour of the part. All fixtures must
match the contour of the part and support the stamping area. Proper selection and
use of fixtures will reduce downtime and rejects, resulting in increased production.
Make-Ready is the term used to ensure that the product to be stamped and the
stamping die are exactly in contact to ensure a perfect result. To help correct these
irregularities, various materials such as cardboard, rubber or a mixture of cork and
rubber supplied in sheet form are available. In the graphic arts area, where an
embossed or raised effect is required, specialty products such as pour-a-counter are
available. See page 32.
31
Milford Astor
Make-Ready Materials and General Supplies
Milford Astor has developed a comprehensive range of made-ready materials. These
have been selected to enable the user to achieve a high consistency in quality print
performance with increased productivity. The following information details each
product and its uses.
Black Printing Underlay
This product is used extensively throughout the foiling industry for flat stamping,
suitable for most platen presses. Quite resilient and yet soft enough to compensate
for minor variations. Supplied in sheets.
Die Mounting Tape
A heat activated tape for adhering dies to the press. Also used for adhering foam
support on cylinder presses. Currently stocked in: 38mm x 50m (1.5” x 150'), 310mm
x 50m (12” x 150'), 75mm x 50m (3” x 150').
Epoxy Glassboard
For flat stamping and foil embossing. Extremely strong and durable make-ready base
providing very clean and sharp prints. Can be used with other make-readies, such as
Coverboard and Pragotherm. Epoxy Glassboard is very flat giving correct pressure
across the make-ready.
Recommended for all type of work from fine detail to solid areas and can be used on
both Platen and Cylinder presses.
Epoxy Glass is very resilient and the fact that it is extremely difficult to dent makes it
ideal for very long production runs so reducing make-ready times. Epoxy Glass has
also been designed for repeated use on different jobs without any detrimental effect
on quality. Main advantages, very strong, even thickness across the board, cost
effective, availability. Available in: 914mm x 1220mm, 25mm x 55m, 100mm x 55m,
.5mm (.020”), .8mm (.031”), 1.0mm (.040”), 1.6mm (.062”), 2.4mm (.093”).
Pertoid
For flat stamping and flat embossing. When flat stamping, is extremely good for fine
detail printing, giving crisp, clean prints. Pertoid is recommended for Geitz and
Bobsts presses. It is extremely durable, allowing longer press runs without stopping.
Designed for repeated use. Currently stocked in 610mm x 610mm.
Polyurethane Sheets
For flat stamping. It is recommended for use as a unique make-ready board for flat
stamping large, solid areas. Despite its flexibility, it is hard enough to resist
indentation on large stampings. Its soft cushioning effect prevents bruising, even on
thin, foil edged paper labels. It can be used repeatedly, by simply replacing the
32
Milford Astor
polyurethane tape with which it is adhered to the platen. It springs back to its original
shape after stamping. Acts as a self levelling board, therefore minimising spot makeready. Suitable for Geitz and other large platen presses. Limitations: needs special
tape to adhere to machine bed. Not for use when doing fine detail work. Not for use on
Heidelberg presses. Currently stocked in 610mm x 610mm sheets.
Pour-A-Counter Liquid and Powder
For combination foiling and embossing. This is a two part mix system for making a
counter for the female embossing die. Shelf life of the product is 24 - 30 months.
Benefits to the Printer: Pour-a-Counter is very durable and good for use with deep
sculptured dies. Limitations: can be slightly messy.
Presspahn
Foil flat stamping. A good standard make-ready base board with a smooth surface.
Excellent for short to medium runs. Currently stocked in 1000mm x 1067mm.
Printing Base Self Adhesive
This product is used extensively throughout the foiling industry for flat stamping,
suitable for most platen presses. Quite resilient and yet soft enough to compensate for
minor variations and has the convenience of pressure sensitive application. Supplied
in sheets 690mm x 1020mm.
Yellow Cover Board
Used for blind embossing. It provides a quick, clean and very effective method for
forming a male counter for blind embossing. It can also be used on top of a Liquid and
Powder formed counter to give extra depth and aid in smoothing out stock. The board is
fixed to the machine bed and moistened with a damp cloth, or spray. A few impressions
are made and the coverboard conforms precisely to the die producing a durable blind
embossing counter. Coverboard can significantly reduce make-ready time over powder
techniques which involve prolonged drying time. Currently stocked in 61cm x 48cm
sheets.
33
Milford Astor
Tips to Save Pains and Strains
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!!
Check the realistic registration tolerances of your printer and stamper to decrease
rejects and ensure a quality piece.
If designing large solid areas and fine intricate areas in the same design, expect to foil
stamp it with two passes.
Have your printer and foil stamper talk before beginning the job. COMMUNICATION
CAN SAVE EVERYONE TIME AND MONEY.
Ink must be wax free and not rubber-based if you are foil stamping over an inked area.
Be careful to try to avoid wet trapping your inked area by varnishing before these areas
are dry.
Stamping over UV coatings on some applications can present a challenge. Therefore,
try to use an aqueous coating or wax free varnish whenever possible, or stamp prior to
UV coating. If you must stamp over UV varnish ask Milford Astor to advise the
appropriate UV varnish.
Check with your printer to help determine the dyne count (surface tension) of a
laminated sheet. The dyne count should be higher than 40 for the sheet to be foil
stamped.
Keep within your customer's budget. Foil is a very economical addition when planned
correctly. You may be able to save an entire run through the press with one slight
adjustment of your design.
Call Milford Astor to check if the foil shade you have chosen is available in the correct
grade for your stock you are using and the coverage you are trying to achieve.
Many pigment and pearl foils are translucent. This can drastically change the
appearance on coloured stocks. Check the opacity of your chosen foil before
specifying.
When stamping dry, textured stocks, be sure to specify the correct foil to prevent
dulling.
When designing foil for letterheads to be used through laser printers, it is essential to
have your customers test a stamped sample through their laser printer before running
the entire job.
For a quality stamp of areas designed with intricate detail, be sure the space between
the lines in the design is no less than half the thickness of the stock you are using.
As a general rule with hard plastics, it takes one tonne per 25mm x 25mm of stamped
area. Choice of stock, die construction and make-ready can decrease tonnage
needed. Check with your stamper for his equipment capabilities regarding your
particular design.
34
Milford Astor
Weights and Measurements of Master Rolls
Approximate weights and measurements (diameter) of Master Rolls 61cm (24”) wide on standard 25mm
(1”) diameter cores on 12 micron polyester.
Length
Metallics
Golds, Silvers & Colours
Pigmented
Polyester
On 16mm CORES Polyester
Diameter
metres
feet
mm
61
122
183
305
200
400
600
1000
51
57
70
89
61
122
183
305
200
400
600
1000
61
200
inches
Weight
kg
lbs
2
2 1/4
2 3/4
3 1/ 2
.90
1.72
2.35
3.06
2.00
3.80
5.20
6.70
57
76
82.5
105
2 1/4
3
3 1/4
4 1/4
1.27
2.54
2.90
5.17
2.80
5.60
6.40
11.40
41.5
1 5/8
.90
2.00
Stamping Temperatures
The printing temperature range of Milford Astor Foilmakers foils is approx 100 - 170
degrees C. It is not possible to recommend a given temperature for any particular
surface to be stamped because of the varying production conditions that are
encountered. The controlling factors are as follows:
1.
Characteristics of the foil.
2.
Type of machine in use (hand, mechanical or air-operated and whether
semi or fully automatic).
3.
Action of machine - time in contact with blocking surface, i.e., dwell.
4.
Surface to be blocked - receptive or non receptive.
5.
Type of die to be used and total area of print.
6.
Heat source.
7.
Variation between heater block and die face temperatures.
8.
Ambient conditions.
The ideal foiling temperature for metallics is the lowest possible temperature
at which maximum coverage, adhesion and cleanliness is obtained.
35
Milford Astor
Foil Requirements Calculator - Metric
Pull length
in mm
Roll 61m
Roll 122m
Roll 183m
Roll 305m
10
12
14
16
18
20
6100
5083
4357
3813
3389
3050
12200
10167
8714
7625
6778
6100
18300
15250
13071
11438
10167
9150
30500
25417
21786
19063
16944
15250
25
30
35
40
45
50
2440
2033
1743
1525
1356
1220
4880
4067
3486
3050
2711
2440
7320
6100
5229
4575
4067
3660
12200
10167
8714
7625
6778
6100
55
60
65
70
75
1109
1017
938
871
813
2218
2033
1877
1743
1624
3327
3050
2815
2614
2440
5545
5083
4692
4357
4067
80
85
90
95
100
763
718
678
642
610
1525
1435
1356
1284
1220
2288
2153
2033
1926
1830
3813
3588
3389
3211
3050
110
120
130
140
150
555
508
469
436
407
1109
1017
938
871
813
1664
1525
1408
1307
1220
2773
2542
2346
2179
2033
160
170
180
190
200
381
359
339
321
305
763
718
678
641
610
1144
1076
1017
963
915
1906
1794
1694
1605
1525
210
220
230
240
250
290
277
265
254
244
581
555
530
508
488
871
832
796
763
732
1452
1386
1326
1271
1220
Foil Requirements Calculator - Imperial
Pull length
in inches
36
Roll 200
feet
Roll 400
feet
Roll 600
feet
Roll 1000
feet
9/
16
5/
8
5486
4800
4267
3840
10971
9600
8533
7680
16457
14400
12800
11520
27429
24000
21333
19200
11/
16
3/
4
7/
8
15/
16
3491
3200
2743
2560
6982
6400
5486
5120
10473
9600
8229
7680
17455
16000
13714
12800
1
11/ 8
1 1/ 4
13/ 8
1 1/ 2
15/ 8
1 3/ 4
17/ 8
2400
2133
1920
1745
1600
1477
1371
1280
4800
4267
3840
3491
3200
2954
2743
2560
7200
6400
5760
5236
4800
4431
4114
3840
12000
10667
9600
8727
8000
7385
6857
6400
2
21/ 8
2 1/ 4
23/ 8
2 1/ 2
25/ 8
2 3/ 4
27/ 8
1200
1129
1067
1011
960
914
873
835
2400
2259
2133
2021
1920
1829
1745
1670
3600
3388
3200
3032
2880
2743
2618
2504
6000
5647
5333
5053
4800
4571
4364
4174
3
31/ 8
3 1/ 4
33/ 8
3 1/ 2
35/ 8
3 3/ 4
37/ 8
800
768
738
711
686
662
640
619
1600
1536
1477
1422
1371
1324
1280
1239
2400
2304
2215
2133
2057
1986
1920
1858
4000
3840
3692
3556
3429
3310
3200
3097
4
4 1/ 4
4 1/ 2
4 3/ 4
600
565
533
505
1200
1129
1067
1011
1800
1694
1600
1516
3000
2824
2667
2526
5
5 1/ 4
5 1/ 2
5 3/ 4
480
457
436
417
960
914
873
835
1440
1371
1309
1252
2400
2286
2182
2087
6
6 1/ 4
6 1/ 2
6 3/ 4
400
384
369
356
800
768
738
711
1200
1152
1108
1067
2000
1920
1846
1778
7
7 1/4
7 1/ 2
7 3/4
8
343
331
320
310
300
686
662
640
619
600
1029
993
960
929
900
1714
1655
1600
1545
1500
3/
8
1/
2
Milford Astor
Table of cuts (from a 610mm wide roll)
Widths
Inches
mm
No.
cuts
Offcut
mm inches
Widths
Inches
mm
No.
cuts
Offcut
mm inches
Widths
Inches
mm
No.
cuts
Offcut
mm inches
10
11
13
16
17
19
21
22
25
0.38
0.43
0.51
0.63
0.67
0.75
0.83
0.87
0.98
64
54
48
38
34
28
29
27
24
0
10
0
6
10
0
11
10
0
0.00
0.38
0.00
0.25
0.38
0.00
0.44
0.38
0.00
54
57
60
64
67
70
73
76
79
2.13
2.24
2.36
2.52
2.64
2.76
2.87
2.99
3.11
11
10
10
9
9
8
8
8
7
16
38
6
38
10
51
25
0
54
0.63
1.50
1.25
1.50
0.38
2.00
1.00
0.00
2.13
114
121
133
140
146
152
159
165
171
4.49
4.76
5.24
5.51
5.75
5.98
6.26
6.50
6.75
5
4
4
4
4
4
3
3
3
7
102
76
51
25
0
133
114
95
0.25
4.00
3.00
2.00
1.00
0.00
5.25
4.50
3.75
27
29
32
35
38
41
44
48
51
1.06
1.14
1.26
1.38
1.50
1.61
1.73
1.89
2.01
22
21
19
17
16
14
13
12
12
16
10
6
16
0
32
32
38
0
0.63
0.38
0.25
0.63
0.00
1.25
1.25
1.50
0.00
83
86
89
92
95
98
102
102
108
3.27
3.39
3.50
3.62
3.74
3.86
4.02
4.02
4.25
7
7
6
6
6
6
6
5
5
32
10
76
57
38
19
0
7
38
26.0
0
0.38
3.00
2.25
1.50
0.75
0.00
2.75
1.50
189
184
191
7.01
7.24
7.52
3
3
3
76
57
38
3.00
2.25
1.50
197
203
7.76
7.99
3
3
76
0
3.00
0.00
Common Problems and Solutions
Problem
Solution
1. Bridging
Reduce temperature and dwell.
2. Bad coverage
Insufficient heat or dwell.
3. Foil carrier sticks to product being
stamped
Position foil guide bars in feed side down just above the
stamping surface and outfeed a little higher. This gives a
peeling action rather than a snatch. Use foil with a softer
release. Reduce temperature and / or dwell.
4. Foil pre-heated by die or platen
This causes bridging. Set foil by die guide bars so that foil is
not touching heated area.
5. Static electricity
On high speed machines this can cause foil feeding problems.
It can sometimes be reduced by placing a copper strip from
foil bars to earth.
6. Foil rainbows
Reduce heat or dwell.
7. Blushing on polystyrene
This is caused by excessive pressure. Increase temperature
and / or dwell and reduce pressure.
8. Tipping raised letter or surfaces in
plastics
Silicone rubber bonded to aluminium. In plastics higher
than normal temperature should be used as rubber is not a
good conductor of heat.
9. Lines appear on printed product
Check to ensure foil is not creased. Reduce foil tension on foil
off-take roll. On cylindrical machines, use sponge rubber.
37
Milford Astor
Glossary of Hot Stamping Terms
Air Press:
A pneumatic cylinder applies the force.
Brass Die:
A st amping die made from brass. Better and longer-lasting than
mag die (q.v.), but more expensive.
Blocking :
Another word used to describe ‘Stamping’.
Blushing:
See 'Clouding'
Bridging:
See 'Filming'
Carrier:
The film or paper on which foil is carried in roll leaf hot stamping.
Clouding:
A milky or cloudy appearance of stamped areas. Sometimes
called blushing.
Cold Foil:
A stamping foil that gives a similar result as hot stamping foil but
the foil does not incorporate an adhesive coat. The foil is laid
down onto a special adhesive, before UV curing and peeling off.
Copper Die:
A stamping die etched in copper, very hard, good for long runs in
graphics.
Cork Rubber:
An adhesive-backed cork sheet used as make-ready.
Corona Treatment: A method of changing the surface molecular tension of plastic
films to accept inks and varnishes.
Detail Foil:
Foil best suited for stamping fine detail, such as small lettering.
Dwell Time:
Length of time the heated die is allowed to remain in contact with
t he piece being stamped.
Fibre Board:
Stiff paper board used as make-ready.
Filming:
Excess particles of leaf around the edge of a stamped area. Also
called bridging or flooding.
First-Surface Impressions:
The stamping of foil on the top surface of a plastic part. See
'Second Surface Impression'.
Flashing:
See ‘Filming’.
Flooding:
See 'Filming'.
Gassing:
Caused by heated inks when stamping large areas, causing pin
holes in foil, as well as entrapment of air.
38
Milford Astor
Glassine:
A brittle, high-finish fibrous paper sometimes used as a carrier for an
imitation gold foil.
Hand Press:
Pressure applied by hand to a mechanical lever.
Imitation Leaf:
The dull golds and silvers made by dusting metal powders. Also
known as 'bronze powder', 'dusted leaf'.
Foil:
The coating which is transferred from the carrier to the hot-stamped
item by a heated die. Sometimes also called 'roll leaf'. The term
derives from the original gold leaf, which was beaten into thin sheets
(leaves) by hand. Actually, leaf today is a coating or dispersion that is
applied to a carrier film.
Mag. Die:
A stamping die etched in magnesium. Usually inexpensive but does
not wear well. Suitable only for relatively short runs on hard plastics
and longer runs on plasterboard.
Make-Ready:
Material placed beneath the object to be stamped, usually to help in
correcting irregularities in either the piece itself or the stamping die.
Serves also as a counter for dies that are raised or embossed.
Moulded Silicone Dies:
A die moulded from silicone rubber. Used mostly for stamping
plastic objects of unusual design or material.
Oil Resistance:
The ability of a stamped impression to withstand attack from any
aliphatic and most aromatic-based liquids, i.e., motor oil, benzene,
naphthalene, toluene, etc.
Opaque:
A foil that permits no light to pass through the stamped impression.
Overprintable:
A stamping foil once applied which allows over printing with ink.
Overstamp:
A second stamping sometimes applied when the first is slightly
faulty.
Panel Foil:
Foil that is best suited for stamping broad areas.
Picking:
The effect of missing pieces of leaf from a stamped area.
Pigment Foil:
Solid-colour roll foil made with organic and inorganic pigment.
Plated Foil:
See 'Simulated Foil'.
Polyester:
A strong, stable plastic film used as a carrier for foil.
Printability:
a) The ability of a foil to be overprinted with ink,
b) As well as the ability of foil to over-stamp an ink surface.
Rainbowing:
An iridescent effect in a stamped area. Usually caused by too much
heat in stamping metallic foils.
39
Milford Astor
Rotary Press:
The die is round, and foil is applied as the die rotates, or a flat die
and foil are applied by a rotating pressure roll which forces the
paper onto a heated die.
Second-Surface Impression:
The stamping of foil on the underside of a transparent part so that
the co l our of the leaf shows through. Used as distinct from 'FirstSurface Impression'.
Silicone Rubber:
A sheet of silicone rubber backed with steel or aluminium and
used as a hot-stamping die for raised and flat surfaces on plastics.
Made with various thicknesses of both face and backing. See
' Tipping'.
Simulated Foils:
Foil of bright gold, silver and metallic colours manufactured by the
vacuum plating process.
Solids:
Large or broad areas.
Stamping Press:
Clamshell: A press that stamps foil with clamshell type of action,
ie. a Kluge, Thompson Heidelberg, etc.
Cylinder: A press which uses a flat die passing under an
impression cylinder.
Roll-On: A press that applies foil with a rolling action.
Rotary: A press where the die is round.
Vertical: A press that stamps with a straight up and down stroke.
Tipping:
To hot stamp a raised plastic surface with silicone rubber.
Toggle Press:
A pneumatic cylinder applies the force, which is multiplied by
toggle mechanism.
Top Rub:
The resistance of a foil to sustained rubbing. Foil with poor top rub
will smear or break down rather easily.
Translucent:
Foil stamping that allows a partial passage of light. Sometimes
used to colour a transparent plastic.
Woodgrain Foil:
Foil with a woodgrain pattern.
40

the guide to hot stamping and foil selection

Transcription

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