Now that we have identified the potential threat posed by poor printing, let’s take a closer look at how to use print adhesion testing to assess print quality before shipment.There are two very simple ways to perform a print adhesion test.Two of the more standardized and popular tests are the 3M Tape Test and the Rub Test.
3M tape test
The 3M tape test is one that all professional quality control inspectors are familiar with.To perform the 3M tape test, all you need is a small piece of 3M brand 1/2" wide tape and the following 3 steps:
Press a piece of tape firmly onto the test surface.In general, the test surface can be a printed product logo, or any other surface on a product that contains printed material.Rub the tape repeatedly until all air underneath is removed.
With a quick movement of the tape, pull the tape vertically off the test surface to remove it completely.
Look closely at the tape and visually inspect for any signs of peeling from the test surface.As well as checking for marks on the surface of the material.If there is material on the tape or the printed area of the test surface is damaged, the item will fail the 3M tape test.
Dry rubbing and alcohol rubbing test
Common procedures in print adhesion testing are dry rubbing and alcohol rubbing tests.These tests are usually done together and involve the use of a white cotton cloth, isopropyl alcohol or ethanol (often called rubbing alcohol), and the following steps:
First press a dry white cloth tightly onto the printed test surface and rub it back and forth 24 times.For the alcohol rub test, lightly dampen the cloth before also rubbing the test surface.
Lift the cloth from the test surface and inspect it visually for prints lifted from the test surface.After the proof test, the print quality of the test surface remained unchanged.If the printed area shows signs of damage, such as fading, peeling, or smudging, the part failed the rub test.
