Kolorguide Dyne Marker Pens Instructions – Step-by-Step Guide for Accurate Surface Energy Testing

This guide explains how to properly use Kolorguide dyne marker pens to measure surface energy in plastics, films, and other substrates. Accurate dyne testing is essential for ensuring proper ink adhesion, coating performance, and lamination quality.

The following procedure is based on industry best practices and should be followed carefully to obtain reliable results.

TEST PROCEDURE AND SAFETY NOTICE

Important Safety Notice:

The fluids present in Kolorguide Dyne Marker pens are classified as hazardous materials. Exercise caution to avoid skin contact, ensure proper ventilation, and prevent eye exposure. Pregnant women should refrain from conducting this test. For more information, consult the product MSDS or  Info@kolorguide.com.

To ensure meaningful test results, adherence to the following four points is imperative:

1. Surface Integrity: Avoid touching or contaminating the test surface, as dirty surfaces compromise wettability.
2. Marker Pen Quality: Utilize uncontaminated and up-to-date Kolorguide dyne marker pens.
3. Sample Retesting: Do not retest the same sample location; move along the sample or pull a new one.
4. Storage Conditions: Store and use Dyne marker pens at room temperature.

Materials/Equipment

1.1 Kolorguide Marker Pens

1.2 Subject Material

1.3 Clean Level Test Area

1.4 Thermometer and Hygrometer

Method

2.1 Sample Preparation: Pull a high-quality sample without surface aberrations, especially for extruded film.

2.2 Sample Placement: Position the sample on a clean, level surface, securing edges if necessary to prevent curling or deformation.

2.3 Recording Conditions: Record ambient temperature and relative humidity; allow the sample temperature to stabilize if different from ambient.

2.4 Testing Locations: Test at least three points across the sample, including 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4 sections, and consider testing outer edges. Determine test locations for non-film materials in-house.

Determination of Wetting

2.5.1 Marker Selection: Choose an Kolorguide Dyne marker pen with a dyne level slightly lower than the test sample.

2.5.2 Application: Press the applicator tip firmly on the subject material until saturated with ink.

2.5.3 Testing: Draw the pen lightly across the test sample in parallel passes, evaluating only the last pass for accurate measurement.

2.5.4 Interpretation: Follow specific actions based on whether the ink swath remains wetted, beads up, tears apart, or shrinks. Repeat with higher or lower dyne level markers accordingly.

Precision and Further Considerations

This method provides relatively accurate surface energy measurements in standard 2 dyne/cm increments. KOLORGUIDE DYNE marker pens offer results with a precision of approximately +/- 2.0 dynes/cm. For investigating discrepancies, consider more precise methods or use KOLORGUIDE DYNE  surface tension test fluids per ASTM D2578-84.

It is recommended to establish a quality assurance plan, conduct regular audits during the phase-in stage of KOLORGUIDE DYNE marker pen use, and monitor changeovers between substrates. Surface energy is a critical factor in converting operations, but it should be considered alongside other factors like surface topography and chemical compatibility.

Note: The safety notice and testing procedure are provided by Esmarco Corp, and caution should be exercised to prevent any losses or damages during the use of this report.

Why Dyne Marker Pen Testing Matters

Surface energy directly affects print adhesion, coating uniformity, and lamination strength. Incorrect surface energy levels can lead to ink rejection, poor bonding, and production defects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What dyne level is good for printing?
Typically 38–42 dynes/cm depending on the substrate and ink system.

How accurate are dyne marker pens?
Approximately ±2 dynes/cm under controlled conditions.

Can dyne pens go bad?
Yes, contamination and age affect accuracy. Always use fresh pens.