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PADPRINT NOTEBOOK
Useful Tips & Information © ITW Trans Tech An Illinois Tool Works Company |
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Ink Pump Doubles As Dispenser
OCCASIONALLY an alternate use of an accessory can become more popular than the intended application. Automatic Ink Pump (US patent # 4,792,292) from ITW Trans Tech was originally designed for large, completely automated pad printing systems that require a continuous supply of ink at a consistent viscosity. These machines typically are high-speed, open inkwell units for printing on golfballs, syringes and other high-volume production runs. But several of our customers have begun to demand an accessory to be used as an ink dispenser. Our patented pump conveniently fits the need.
Mix Once, Pour-Off Often
In operations where several machines are being used daily in full-time, multiple shifts, stopping production to mix or add thinner to ink is not an option. Valuable time can be saved with a ready supply of ink to refill cups and get back up and running. This is an ideal situation for using the Automatic Ink Pump as a dispenser.
Its ample, three-liter reservior enables operators to mix a large batch of ink, thinner and, if desired, other additives– then fill the pump and tap off individual cupfuls as needed during the day. In a large production run using a single color, this is both convenient and cost-effective.
Top photo: Automatic Ink Pump as viewed from above shows control panel knobs with LED viscosity readout and pour-off valve in up position. Above is closeup view.
Viscosity Control, Minimal Evaporation
With a heighten awareness of OSHA regulations and workplace safety issues, many customers are looking to limit employee exposure to solvent fumes during mixing as well as the general air quality of their work environment. By pre-mixing a larger volume of ink and keeping it confined to a sealed dispenser, odors and spillage are kept to a minimum.
The simple tapper valve enables spill-free dispensing into inkcups or open inkwells. In addition, viscosity is automatically maintained by the pump unit to operator-adjustable settings. This ensures consistent ink opacity and image quality from beginning to end of the batch.
Pre-Mix Ink, Pour Into Pump, Make Control Settings
Typically, ink and solvent are pre-mixed in a separate container, then poured into the pump through the reservoir cap. The solvent bowl is also filled with the same type of thinner. This original ink batch viscosity is the reference point for the pump’s automatic settings. The controller has adjustable set points for high and low to allow the thinner valve to open and close as needed to maintain the viscosity setting. As the ink viscosity changes over time, the ink pump sensor signals for a measured release of solvent until the preset viscosity level is satisfied.
For ink viscosity guidelines, click here!
For more information on using the Automatic Ink Pump in your pad printing operation, please contact the ITW Trans Tech sales team at: www.itwtranstech.com
ITW TRANS TECH An Illinois Tool Works Company
475 North Gary Avenue • Carol Stream, IL 60188-4900
Phone: 630.752.4000 • Fax: 630.752.4460
www.itwtranstech.com
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© 2007 ITW Trans Tech • An Illinois Tool Works Company
 SPECIFICATIONS: Automatic Ink Pump Part Number: 9016-11-000 Power Supply: 120v 60Hz; single-phase Control Voltage: 5V Power Consumption: 75 watts Ink Container: 3.0 Liters Solvent Container: 0.5 Liter Flow Rate: 400 ml / minute. Electronic Controls: pump on/off; timer control on/off; range; consistence; LED viscosity indicator. Dimensions: 44 cm (L) x 22 cm (W) x 76 cm (H) Weight: 52 lbs. This fully automatic ink pump with electronic controls is designed to continuously recycle ink and maintain a constant level of viscosity. By using this control device, consistent ink viscosity is guaranteed. The result is improved print quality and elimination of rejects normally caused by viscosity changes. Another advantage of the Automatic Ink Pump is that periodic, ink mixing adjustments by the operator are no longer required. This allows the use of fully automatic pad printing systems with minimal operator involvement or the option to use unskilled labor during manual printing operations. Not only will labor savings be realized but added quality improvement will also reduce production costs. Easy Operation Ink is supplied to the inkwell by means of a gear pump which is nested inside the ink container. Leaks which could occur from faulty pump seals are thus eliminated. The viscosity measuring device constantly signals the level to the electronic controls. This opens or closes a solenoid valve to dispense solvent into the container as required. A stainless steel agitator assures thorough mixing of solvent and ink. The ink reservoir is equipped with a port which also may serve as an ink return in a recycling set-up. The system includes a translucent solvent container, flow control valve, drive motor for gear pump, agitator, plus all controls necessary for maximum and minimum allowable viscosity tolerances. The entire unit is mounted to a coated aluminum base with lockable casters to aid in workplace mobility. |
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