Champion Inks® OPTI-971 Slow Thinner – Superior Ink Flow & Adhesion for Plastics | 10000 Series
Precision control for perfect plastic prints.
Champion Inks® OPTI-971 Slow Thinner is a professional-grade ink modifier formulated to enhance ink flow, printability, and adhesion across a variety of plastic substrates. Designed for 10000 Series Screen Inks, it ensures superior resolution, durability, and gloss finish on ABS, Acrylic, COP, Polystyrene, Polycarbonate, and Butylate.
With a mild odor and non-leaded composition, OPTI-971 delivers a safer and cleaner production experience while providing a scuff-resistant, mar-resistant finish ideal for professional-grade vacuum-formed and industrial printing applications.
Key Features
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Enhanced Ink Flow & Printability – Prevents premature drying for smooth, consistent results.
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Superior Adhesion – Optimized for a range of plastics including ABS, Acrylic, and Polycarbonate.
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High-Resolution Printing – Produces sharp, detailed prints with excellent opacity.
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Durable & Mar-Resistant Finish – Ensures glossy, long-lasting prints built to endure.
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Environmentally Safer Formula – Non-leaded pigments and low-odor solvents for a cleaner workspace.
Recommended Substrates
- ABS
- Acrylic
- Butylate
- Polystyrene
- Polycarbonate
- Cyclic Olefin Polymer (COP)
- Vacuum-Formed Plastics
Product Compatibility
Optimized for use with 10000 Series Screen Inks, enhancing print quality and open screen time for high-demand plastic printing. Ideal for extended runs and precision detail work.
Pre-Test Recommended: Always test on actual substrate before production to confirm adhesion and performance.
Screen Printing Guidelines
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Coverage: ~1,000 sq. ft. per gallon (250-mesh screen)
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Mesh Compatibility: 230–280 (92T–112T/cm European)
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Stencil Type: Optima EM-500, SBQ, or solvent-resistant emulsions
Drying & Curing Instructions
| Method |
Time & Temperature |
| Air Dry |
30 minutes (solvent evaporation) |
| Jet Dry |
20–30 seconds @ 135°F–180°F (57°C–82°C) |
Ink Modification & Additive Guide
| Modifier |
Purpose |
Recommended Use |
| T-922 Biting Solvent |
Prevents drying in hot/humid conditions |
2–3% by weight |
| T-970B Fast Thinner |
Speeds drying & improves ink flow |
5–15% by weight |
| OPTI-971 Slow Thinner |
Slows drying for extended open time |
5–15% by weight |
| T-980 / T-999 Retarder |
Prevents premature on-screen drying |
2–3% by weight |
| FA-011 Flow Agent |
Improves smoothness & print uniformity |
0.5–1% by weight |
| 10790 Clear Base |
Extends color range |
As needed |
| 10800 Halftone Base |
Enhances fine detail printing |
As needed |
Clean-Up Recommendations
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Primary Solvents: T-902 or T-925 Wash-Up
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Eco Alternatives: SC-500 Bio Wash-Up or SC-510 Instant Bio Wash-Up
- Ensures clean, residue-free equipment for consistent printing performance.
Available Packaging
- 1-Quart (0.945 L)
- 1-Gallon (3.78 L)
Safety & Handling
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Refer to MSDS: Review safety guidelines before use.
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Protective Gear: Use gloves, goggles, and adequate ventilation.
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Storage: Keep sealed in a cool, dry area away from heat and direct sunlight.
Why Choose Champion Inks® OPTI-971 Slow Thinner?
Champion Inks® OPTI-971 ensures exceptional ink control, adhesion, and clarity for plastic substrates. Perfect for demanding production environments, it delivers consistent flow, extended open time, and brilliant print finishes.
Champion Inks® — perfect flow, flawless adhesion, lasting brilliance.