The theoretical ink deposit is an approximate value used to help select the most appropriate Mesh count for the printing application. By determining this factor, we can then select a mesh count that will best match our needs for any given screen printing project where ink deposit on the Substrate must be finely controlled.

As seen in the diagram, the ink is forced through the screen mesh in cubes, whose volume is determined by the mesh aperture (w) and the mesh thickness (D). The cubes then flow together to form an even wet ink film of theoretical thickness on the substrate. Since screen printing mesh can be made with extremely thin thread diameters, it can deposit ink cubes with exceptionally small gaps between them. Therefore, the ink cubes have only a small distance to flow and form a uniform ink deposit, and thus, print definition with only the most minimal Serration.

The theoretical ink deposit (Vth) can be calculated in cm3 per m2 of screen mesh using the following formula:

Vth=[W / w + d]2 x D

In addition to the screen mesh, other factors influencing the ultimate ink deposit will include:

• Ink Viscosity ~ Ink type
  

• Surface characteristics of the substrate
  

• Screen Stencil thickness "E.O.M." Emulsion Over Mesh
  

• Screen Mesh Tension
  

• Off Contact

• Flood Bar / Squeegee Speed, Angle, Pressure and Durometer.