Printing on silicone presents challenges, and these difficulties are amplified when the silicone product includes other materials with differing physical characteristics that are bonded to or integrated within it. A perfect example of this is Bala bangles, made from silicone rubber, Velcro combined with rubber bands, and magnets. All these materials respond differently to heat, which is essential for drying and curing the ink.
We will discuss how a customer brought this challenge to Boston Industrial Solutions, Inc., and how we addressed the issue within hours.
The Challenge: Delivering the perfect print without damaging the heat-sensitive component bonded to silicone.
The Stryker bangle’s combination of materials creates a unique printing challenge.
- Velcro is heat-sensitive and will melt under high temperatures.
- Magnets lose their magnetism when exposed to heat.
- Silicone casings require specialized inks for strong adhesion.
Solvent-based pad printing inks do not bond to silicone. The alternative ink, the Natron® SE Series, requires heat to cure. However, introducing heat would damage the Velcro and cause the magnets to lose their magnetism. Additionally, other inks currently available on the market would present the same issues as the SE Series–until now.
The Solution: Natron® DC Series Ink
Boston Industrial Solutions, Inc. developed the Natron® DC Series ink, an innovative and highly reactive silicone ink. It dries quickly and is specifically formulated for heat-sensitive silicone products. In contrast to the SE Series, this ink incorporates dual-cure® technology, allowing for both air and heat curing. Its ability to dry at low temperatures provides complete versatility for products with heat-sensitive components.
For the silicone Bala weighted bangle:
- The silicone casing is pad printed using DC Series ink.
- Instead of heat-curing, the ink is left to air-cure at room temperature.
- The Velcro and magnets remain fully functional, while the silicone print becomes permanent, durable, and part of the product.
Why Choose DC Series Ink?
We engineered the Natron® DC Series ink using silicone polymers for long-lasting adhesion and flexibility. It is non-toxic and formulated with fade-resistant, heavy-metal-free pigments. Available in 14 standard colors (with custom matches available), it’s the ideal ink for complex projects like the Stryker bangle.
Key Features:
- Two-component silicone ink
- Glossy finish with high opacity
- Excellent elasticity and durability
- Dual-cure: Air-cure or heat-cure
- Safe, non-toxic, and fade-resistant
Mixing & Curing Instructions:
- Mix 20 parts ink with 1 part catalyst and stir thoroughly.
- Adjust viscosity by adding 5-20% of the Natron® SF Solvent as needed.
- Print on the product.
- Air-curing: Let dry at room temperature.
- Heat-curing (optional): Heat in an oven for 2 minutes at 200°F to accelerate curing.
- Safety note: Allow the product to cool before handling.
A Dynamic Ink for Complex Applications
With the Natron® DC Series, printing on silicone items with heat-sensitive components is no longer a barrier. Whether it’s medical devices, wearable tech, or unique consumer products, the DC Series ink ensures brilliant, durable prints without compromising product functionality.
Learn more about the Natron® DC Series Ink today and discover how it can transform your printing process.
