2. Do pads yield consistent results throughout their lifetime ?

3. What is the correct way to clean a printing pad ?

4. What is the significance of a pad's durometer ?

5. What is the correct way to store a printing pad ?

1. Question : how long do printing pads last ?

Answer : the life of a pad will vary greatly, depending upon its composition, the conditions of use, the aggressiveness of ink chemistry, and the nature of the substrate being printed. A pad of decent quality should last at least 30,000 cycles in any case; a working life of over 100,000 cycles is possible.

2. Question : do pads yield consistent results throughout their lifetime ?

Answer : new pads usually do experience a short break-in period, during which they transfer less than the optimum amount of ink. As pads age, the integrity of the image transfer will tend to degrade, evidenced by a slightly fuzzy image, particularly in areas of fine detail. A pad can be used as long as one deems the results to be acceptable.

3. Question : what is the correct way to clean a printing pad ?

Answer : new pads should be gently wiped with a soft, lint-free rag which has been dampened with lacquer thinner or ink thinner. This will remove any mold release left over from the manufacturing process, and assist with break-in (pads which require longer break-in times may be wiped in this manner repeatedly to assist the process). During its service life, the pad should be cleaned using the sticky side of a roll of clear packing tape or masking tape to "lift" dried ink and dirt off of the working surface of the pad.

4. Question : what is the significance of a pad's durometer ?

Answer : Durometer is the relative hardness of the rubber of which the pad is made. Printex offers three standard durometers, and can make up many more to order. General rules for the effects of durometer can be found in our introduction to pad printing.
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5. Question : what is the correct way to store a printing pad ?

Answer : Pads should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from exposure to direct sunlight, dust and debris. The pad should be rested on its base (inverted), and under no circumstances should the working surface be in contact with other objects, as permanent dents or creases could result.