HOW TO SELECT THE PROPER TYPE OF RUBBER

The type of the rubber to be used is determined by:

• The ink and solvent system being used determine the base rubber:

Water or alcohol based inks	Natural Rubber
Oil or mixed solvent inks	Nitrile
Inks with acetates or ketones	EP
For a listing of more specialized applications and solvents, consult the solvent compatibility chart or your Graphic Arts Distributor.

• Nature of the surface to be printed determines the hardness of the rubber:

Film, paper, foil	Mid durometer
Corrugated, uneven surfaces	Low durometer
For a listing of more specialized applications and solvents, consult the solvent compatibility chart or your Graphic Arts Distributor.

• Type of artwork being printed also determines the hardness of the rubber:

Box dies	Low durometer
Line work	Low to mid durometer
Type	Low to mid durometer
Fine type	Mid durometer
Process color work	NBR/PVC, Mid durometer
Offset Blanket	NBR/PVC High durometer
Embossing	High durometer

• Other factors:

Will the plate be ground to final thickness?	Easy grinding compound or a combination of face and grinding compounds.
Is any type of reinforcement being used?	Must be compatible with rubber.