Glossary

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VARNISH

A thin, clear coating of mixtures of natural and synthetic resins and drying oils applied to a printed web for protection or appearance. In ink making, it can be part of the ink's vehicle or carrier. Refer IM.

VEHICLE

In printing inks, the fluid component which serves as the dispersant for the pigment and gives the ink flow (carrier). Refer IM.

VIGNETTE

An illustration in which the background fades gradually until it blends into the unprinted area.

VINYL

Synthetic plastic product which can be made in film, sheet or other forms. Vinyls can be manufactured in rigid or flexible constructions. Generally more flexible and formable than polyesters. Also known as PVC or polyvinyl chloride. A tough durable plastic film having excellent resistance to oils, chemicals and many solvents. It has excellent abrasion resistance. It can also be coloured. Its high stretch is due to the addition of a plasticiser.

VISCOMETER

An instrument for measuring the viscosity or resistance to flow. Refer IM.

VISCOSITY

Resistance to flow. It is related to the properties of tack and yield value; the flow rate. Refer IM.

VOID

An area of a coated film which does not have a coating. An adhesive skip; adhesive void.

VULCANISING

Cross linking an adhesive substance by the application of heat and catalysts.