Ink pick

Ink pick on paper is the damage of the paper surface caused during printing: the damage may be coating or fibre lift. When the printing form is lifted off the paper, the ink exerts a force on the paper. This force increases with the viscosity and tack of the ink and the printing speed. If this force exceeds a certain value, the surface of the paper is damaged. The IGT pick test can also be used to assess the delamination resistance of a board liner.

The pick velocity is defined as the velocity at which picking starts: the pick resistance is characterized by the product of pick velocity in m/s and viscosity in Pa.s of the pick test oil used. Testing is made in accordance with British Standard BS 6225:2, Tappi 514 and International Standard ISO 3783.

IGT pick testing is included in Pira's Paper Proficiency Service.

Contact the Expert

  • Maggie is Principal Consultant for Print and Document Security and has over 30 years experience in the print industry with a broad knowledge of printing, finishing, foil blocking, inks and coatings. Experienced in problem solving and mediating in resolution of print-related issues. Maggie is also secretary of the Associates of Print and Paper Technologists (APPT).

    Maggie Carnegie
    Maggie Carnegie

    Pira International

    +44(0)1372 802158

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