Silicones and Applications
In the printing industry, there are three forms or types of silicone products available. There are traditional silicones, traditional silicone blends (with anti-stat) and web conditioners or synthetic silicones. All are applied using a silicone applicator unit which provide a consistent film of diluted silicone designed to replace lost moisture in the web and provide a protective barrier on the surface of the web to eliminate or minimize scuffing or marking.
Conventional silicone
Conventional silicone consist of pure silicone oils which range in solid content. The highest solids content available in the printing market is 60%. The difference between various silicons in the industry is the quality of the silicone oils and the amount or level of solids in the formula.
Web conditioners
Synthetic or web conditioners are commonly used as an alternative to traditional silicones and silicone blends. In some cases they are used as an economical substitution and in some cases they are used for performance advantages.
Anti-Stat Applications
Press used anti-stat is used to help minimize of eliminate static which builds up on the web and the printed material as it passes through the various areas in the printing process. This type of material can be incorporated into the silicone to create a finished product or can be added press side as an additive when needed.