Requirements for Inkjet Printer Ink in the Wire and Cable Industry

22 Sep,2025

The wire and cable industry has strict requirements for inkjet printer ink because products must maintain clear, durable markings under long-term use, bending, friction, sun exposure, and rain. The main requirements include:

Strong Adhesion

  • Ink must firmly attach to cable surfaces made of different materials such as PVC, PE, PP, and rubber
  • Should not peel off due to friction, bending, or handling
  • Must remain stable during subsequent processing like extrusion or winding that involve high temperatures or pressure

Weather and Environmental Resistance

  • UV resistance: Outdoor cable markings must resist UV radiation to prevent fading
  • Water, oil, and chemical resistance: Must withstand humid, oily, acidic, and alkaline environments
  • Wide temperature tolerance: Maintains performance typically from -20℃ to 80℃ or wider range

Quick Drying

  • Wire and cable production speeds can reach tens of meters per minute
  • Ink must dry instantly to prevent smudging after printing

Color and Contrast

  • Black or white inks are most common
  • Must provide high contrast with cable background for long-distance readability
  • Color stability is essential for consistent appearance over time

Environmental Protection and Safety

  • Must comply with RoHS, REACH, and other environmental standards
  • Should be free of heavy metals and toxic solvents
  • Some applications (food, medical, marine cables) require stricter non-toxic certifications

Compatibility with Inkjet Printers

  • Ink viscosity, conductivity (for piezoelectric printers), and drying speed must match equipment specifications
  • Different formulations required for continuous inkjet (CIJ) and drop-on-demand (DOD) technologies