Foil Catalogue Web Version

THE GUIDE TO HOT STAMPING AND FOIL SELECTION
A Note on the downloadable PDF version of the Milford Astor Guide to Hot Stamping and Foil Selection.
This version of the foil catalogue does not include any foil or colour swatches as colours and finishes can not be replicated on a computer screen. If you are interested in getting samples of the foils mentioned in this catalogue please contact your Milford Astor Sales Representative or email us: sales@astor.com.au.
CERTIFICATE OF REGISTRATION
Milford Astor Printing Systems Milford Astor Foilmakers
Milford Astor Pty Ltd
ABN 70 004 321 322
2 Rothschild Avenue ROSEBERY NSW 2018 AUSTRALIA 21 Temple Drive THOMASTOWN VIC 3074 AUSTRALIA
complies with the requirements of
Quality management systems
AS/NZS ISO 9001:2000

for the following capability
Requirements
The registration covers the Quality Management System for the manufacture, procurement, warehousing, slitting and distribution of pigmented and metallised hot stampig foil; procurement, warehousing, slitting and distribution of thermal transfer ribbon, the purchase and distribution of machines for marking, coding and product embellishment and associated equipment and supplies; the servicing and technical support of supplied machines; the production of artwork, manufacture and supply of printing elements.
Registered by:
SAI Global Certification Services Pty Ltd (ACN 108 716 669) 286 Sussex Street Sydney NSW 2000 Australia with SAI Global Limited (SAI Global) and subject to the SAI Global Terms and Conditions for Certification. While all due care and skill was exercised in carrying out this assessment, SAI Global accepts responsibility only for proven negligence. This certificate remains the property os SAI Global and must be returned to SAI Global upon request.
Originally certified to AS/NZS ISO 9002 on 20 August 1993
Certificate No.: QEC2098 Issue Date: 11 November 2005
Certified Date: Expiry Date:
09 February 2004 24 November 2006
SAI Global Limited
for and on behalf of
Authorised Local Signatory, SAI Global

standards assurance innovation
BE
MULTILA R OF TE
RA
Assurance Services
ACCREDITED
OG
NIT
IO N
A RR AN
GE
THE INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATION NETWORK
www.jas-anz.com.au/register
MEMBER
MKP 142.02 CDAN 05/225 HMABLAZE 112557
Alex Ezrakhovich General Manager Certification
Milford Astor Astor Milford Foilmakers

Contents
Basic Hot Stamping Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 .-1- 4 . 4
. . 5Hot Stamping History, Manufacture & Stamping Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5. - 88 29 Foil & Shade Selection Guides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99-- 17 15 Metallic Foils for Graphics, Plastics, Leather & Fabrics . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .99-- 11
Matt Pigment Foils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12- 19 17

21 14 Gloss & Semi-Gloss Foils for Plastics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13- -23
Pearl Foils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15- 27 25

.. Metallic Foils for Rotary & Cylinder Presses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 29
Specialty Foils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 . 31 .. Quick Application Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18. 32 .. Hot Stamping Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19- - 20 33 34 Bottle Stamping & Roll-on Stamping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21- -39 35 25 Hot Stamping Substrates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 --41 40 27 Stamping Dies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28- -45 42 31 Make-Ready Materials & General Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32- -47 46 33 Tips to Save Pains & Strains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 48 .. Weights & Measurements of Master Rolls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 49 .. Foil Requirements Calculator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 50 .. Table of Cuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 37. 51 .. Common Problems and Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37. 51 ..
. 52-54 Glossary of Hot Stamping Terms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 - 40
Milford Astor
MELBOURNE 21 Temple Drive Thomastown VIC 3074 Ph: (03) 9465 0166 Fax: (03) 9464 1024 SYDNEY 2 Rothschild Avenue Rosebery NSW 2018 Ph: (02) 9663 3911 Fax: (02) 9662 1020 ADELAIDE 1A West Thebarton Road Thebarton SA 5031 Ph: (08) 8234 5466 Fax: (08) 8352 3712
e-mail: sales@astor.com.au
www.astor.com.au
Milford Astor Foilmakers Milford Astor
Basic Hot Stamping Information

This catalogue has been published to illustrate and describe our hot stamping foils available for marking and decorating a wide variety of materials. It includes essential product specifications to guide and assist in the selection and application of foils. Milford Astor offers the widest selection of grades, colours and finishes, and maintain the industry's largest stock in strategically located warehouses to ensure prompt delivery. Recommendations for usage are to help in selecting the correct foil to meet a particular application. Please request samples for testing and evaluation in your own plant. samples, please specify or submit materials to be stamped. When requesting
Our foil testing facilities together with technical sales people are at your service for consultation and assistance.
Selection of Foils
The following pages are designed to assist in the selection of foils for particular applications. However, the information given is intended purely as a guide. In many cases more than one grade of foil has been recommended for a particular application. This is because of the wide range of hot stamping machines in use and the variations encountered in substrates and print requirements. For these reasons it is essential that customers carry out their own tests to ascertain the most suitable grade for their application.
Metallic Shades
Shade references should be checked against the colour cards before ordering. However, owing to variations in formulas from one grade to another, each has its own distinctive characteristics, giving a slightly different appearance between shades with the same reference numbers.
Pigment Shades
The colour charts show shades obtained when a solid area is stamped onto a white gloss card. NOTE: Some pigments such as red and maroon can smudge if rubbed. It is the responsibility of the customer to test for abrasion and smudge resistance. Shades may appear slightly darker if stamped: a) at too high a temperature b) with too much pressure c) with too much dwell d) in fine detail work e) on a very dark or contrasting background They may appear slightly lighter if stamped: a) at too low a temperature b) with too little pressure c) with a rubber die d) with insufficient dwell e) on a similar coloured background f) onto clear plastic 21
Milford Astor
Toxicity
If required, we can supply foils that are non-toxic according to standards laid down by health authorities. Our technical staff will assist you in making your choice.
Metal Corrosion
When metallised foils are stamped onto ink, plastic surfaces, or materials that contain certain chemicals, there is a possibility that the metallic layer may be attacked. This possibility is even more likely if the substrate is moist at the time of stamping, e.g., from a gluing operation, or if stored after blocking in an atmosphere of high humidity. It is essential that before any stamping programme is carried out on such substrates, test stampings are made and prints subjected to high humidity for a period of two or three days.
Migration (Plasticisers)
When foils are stamped onto soft flexible plastics, such as PVC, there is a possibility that the plasticisers used in such substrates will migrate into the foiled area. The surface of this area may become 'tacky' or smudge and in the case of coloured metallic and gold foils the colour will gradually fade. This may occur after blocking where work is stacked. In our range there are foils designed to reduce this possibility. However, because circumstances at the time of blocking are beyond our control, we cannot assume any liability and would stress that tests for plasticiser migration be carried out before any blocking is attempted on such substrates, and test prints be subjected to heat and pressure for a period of two or three days.
Oxidation
Some metallic foils and imitation bronze powder foils when blocked onto natural leathers may eventually be affected by oxidation. They can also corrode when in contact with any acidity on the substrate. Imitation bronze foils may also have a tendency to smear slightly.
Foil Storage Conditions

Most standard foils can be stored safely under normal conditions, i.e., at temperatures between 5 degrees C (40 degrees F) and 20 degrees C (68 degrees F) and a relative humidity of between 30% and 70%. Care should be taken to avoid storage close to heating pipes and radiators, or in direct sunlight. Special care should be taken when storing low temperature grades. Rolls should not be subjected to high temperature, or pressure, which could result in delamination. Rolls should be stood on end, avoid stacking rolls horizontally.
Core Sizes
Foil is normally wound onto a 25mm (1") internal diameter cardboard core. Foils can be supplied on 17mm (5/8"), 40mm (1.57"), 76mm (3") and 152mm (6") cores on special request.
Roll Widths and Lengths

Standard widths are 610mm, 640mm (depending on grade) and 1280mm. Standard lengths are 61m, 122m, 244m and 305m. Other lengths are available on request such as 183m, 500m, 1000m, 1500m and 2000m.
Milford Astor
Foiling Ultra Violet Cured Varnishes
Ultra Violet (UV) cured varnishes are varnishes from the acrylate resin family that include a photo-initiator. This reacts with the light from UV lamps, triggering a reaction which causes the varnish to cure and dry instantaneously. UV varnishes give a high gloss, abrasion-resistant finish. process time and makes coating much more compact. The instant drying also reduces
For foil blockers, however, UV cured surfaces present particular problems owing to their relatively low surface energy. Also, there is a tendency to include additives such as waxes and silicones to increase the gloss or to act as a slip aid. Such additives can further reduce the surface energy below that level necessary for successful foil blocking. Another related problem is that of differential curing over coloured inks. Lighter coloured inks will reflect back more UV light than dark ones, with the effect that the coating over a lighter printed area cures faster. On a sheet with, for example, black ink and white areas, the varnish can be properly cured over the white area and under cured on the black. It is usually easy to get an indication of the degree of cure of a UV varnish. Simply wipe a cotton wool swab moistened with an aggressive solvent such as MEK over the lacquer surface and note the number of wipes taken to break through the lacquer. A properly cured varnish should resist 10 double wipes. A useful field method is to fold a piece of UV coated card in two and rub the surfaces together. If they slip over each other without friction or resistance, it is likely that the surfaces are too glossy for foil blocking. If there is some sticking or friction, the surface should be reasonably foil-receptive, although other factors can, of course, prevent successful blocking.
Under Cured Varnishes

Blockers need to ensure that UV surfaces are properly cured. A UV varnish that is normally blockable can give problems if it is under cured. In extreme cases, the varnish will be tacky, or will smell strongly. In less obvious situations the foil will give poor adhesion or will blister, known as "gassing". Under curing can result from: * inadequate level of photo-initiators in the varnish. (They are expensive and economies may have been attempted by the coater.) * excessive web speed, giving too little curing time. * too few or dirty UV lamps, providing insufficient light for curing. * too high a coating weight of varnish being applied.
Recommendations for Successful Foil Blocking

Where difficulties are encountered, we suggest: * turning the sheet over and printing on the reverse. If the foil prints well, it confirms that the UV surface is the problem.
o * turning the sheet through 180 and print again to show up any differential curing and to check if the problem lies with the dies or the press. * putting the sheet through the curing process again - this could well correct any fault due to under curing.
Milford Astor Milford Astor Foilmakers

* resisting the urge to increase blocking temperature as this usually exacerbates the problem. * that, if problems persist, samples are submitted to MILFORD ASTOR for evaluation.
Corona Treatment
Hitherto unprintable surfaces can be made blockable by Corona discharge treatment. However, on UV surfaces, the effects of this treatment dissipate very quickly and the sheets should be blocked within 12 hours at the most.
Over Varnishing / Printing

With the increased use of foils for such applications as magazine covers, foil stampers should be aware that not all foils will accept after varnishing be they conventional or UV. It is always wise to test.
Venting of Dies
A common problem associated with the flat stamping die is flashing. Flashing occurs as a natural process when all elements come together and causes the foil to transfer in unwanted areas of your image. A common spot is the middle of an O or trapped area forming a compressed air pocket. 6.35mm 0.250" When the flat stamping die is etched to its common depth of 0.889mm, the inside of type may be as shallow as 0.127mm. When air is heated and trapped, it will transfer one ton of pressure per square inch, and transfer foil in undesirable locations. Venting these areas by drilling a hole will let the heated air escape into the honeycomb.
How to Order Foils

Having selected the colour of your choice, refer to the industry application section for the grade most suitable for your application.
Caution
The information in this catalogue is based on our experience and research as well as that of our customers and is correct to the best of our knowledge. However, as we have no control over user conditions, we cannot accept liability. You are advised to carry out your own testing.
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Milford AstorAstor Milford Foilmakers
Hot Stamping History, Stamping Equipment
Manufacture
&
Hot stamping is the method of transferring a metallic or pigment finish from a carrier strip, known as a foil, onto a substrate using heat, pressure and time. Described here is the history of this process, the types of hot stamping foils available today, the method of manufacture and other important factors to be considered when foiling a product.
History
On July 24th, 1892, Dr Ernest Oeser first patented the production of both gold and coloured stamping foils using 23 carat gold or bronze (copper and zinc) powder with a dye to obtain the necessary colour. Both these foils were supported by a glassine (paper) carrier strip. This process had some limitations. Real gold was too expensive, being approximately eight to ten times more costly than the vacuum metallised type foils used today; and also bronze powder foils tarnished. Tarnishing is caused by the copper oxidising, also the dyes available at that time were not completely light stable and so the foils faded. Other alternatives were considered and in the early 1950's vacuum metallised foils, using aluminium were developed. This method is still used today and there is no foreseeable change.
Foils Available Today

The range today includes genuine gold (23 carat), bronze powder, imitation golds and metallic colours (vacuum metallised) pigments (flat, semi-gloss and gloss) psychedelic, multi-colour, woodgrain and marble effects, brushed finishes, chrome, leather look, clear, pearlescents and holographic.
Foil Selection
In hot stamping, a pigmented or metallised coated foil is transferred from a carrier, usually polyester film, and fused to a substrate. Therefore, it is essential that the pigmented or metallised coat be compatible with the material to be stamped. For this reason, hot stamping foils are manufactured in various formulations designed to give quality prints on a specific material. Also incorporated in the foils are qualities such as abrasion resistance, oil and grease resistance, and chemical resistance. Gloss, semi-gloss and matt finishes are available in a wide range of colours. Where formulation or colour is not satisfactory, custom made foils are obtainable.
Method of Manufacture
Vacuum metallised foils are commonly used today. A production roll of polyester film of the required thickness and thousands of metres long is run through a
25

coating machine to have the wax release coating applied. This is then dried by radiant heat before the film continues to the next coating to have the colour lacquer applied, after which it is re-rolled and then placed into a continuous vacuum metallising machine. It then goes to the third coating machine to have the adhesive coat applied. The foil is inspected for pin holes and defects and is re-rolled into the length required by the end user, normally 122m or 305m rolls. The only difference between the manufacture of metallised and pigment foil is that pigment foils do not have a vacuum metallised coating. Instead of the lacquer used for gold and other metallic finishes a pigmented coating similar to ink is used. From the diagram it may be seen that a foil comprises up to five layers and in each case these may be varied to achieve the optimum result for different applications. Refer to Diagram A below. Carrier Film: There are basically six types, namely paper, cellulose, polypropylene, acetate, polythene and polyester film. These vary in thickness from 12 micron (most commonly used today) up to 50 micron. Most popular is 12 micron polyester. The heavier carrier is used for stamping complicated plastic parts where a thin carrier tends to tear or distort. Heavy carriers are also used when stamping large areas as this enables the foil to lay flat on the job, thus facilitating the operation. Release Coating: This is generally a wax which, as the heat is applied to the carrier, melts and releases the other layers from the carrier. Many wax releases are available, ranging from very easy to very tight. This can mean the difference between coverage on large areas and obtaining fine detail. Colour Coating: This varies in thickness. For fine definition a thin colour coat is necessary; for large areas and where opaqueness is required a thick colour coat is used. Vacuum Metallised Coating: Generally this does not vary, although in extreme cases a heavier coating may be required. Adhesive or Size Coating: This is probably the most important layer in the manufacture of foil as it varies according to the substrate being stamped. For example, the adhesive required for stamping paper is completely different from that needed when stamping plastic bottles. It is obvious that one foil cannot be selected to do all jobs. There is no universal foil that will stamp all substrates. All the above details should be taken into consideration if the best results are to be obtained.
Diagram A
PIGMENT FOIL
HOT STAMPING DIE CARRIER FILM RELEASE COATING COLOUR COATING SIZE COATING MATERIAL TO BE HOT STAMPED
VACUUM METALLISED FOIL

HOT STAMPING DIE CARRIER FILM RELEASE COATING COLOUR COATING METALLISED COATING SIZE COATING MATERIAL TO BE HOT STAMPED
26

Equipment Selection: Equipment selection will be determined by the design of the article to be stamped, and production rate required. Hand fed presses hot stamp up to 1200 parts per hour. Production from 1200 to 3000 parts per hour can be expected from a turntable equipped press, and even greater output is possible from a clam action press, cylinder or roll-on press. The basic types of presses are shown in Diagram C on page 8. 39. B 1. 1. Vertical air-operated presses with a capacity of 0.25 to 6.0 tonnes. These are mainly used for light duty stamping with metal dies or silicone pads. Vertical presses compensate for variations in part thickness as they do not have a fixed stop or mechanical linkage, the head of the press continues to travel until it reaches the stamping surface and then builds up pressure to transfer the foil to the part. Air toggle presses with a capacity of 3 to 16 tonnes. The primary purpose of the air cylinder on these presses is to actuate a mechanical linkage which exerts greater pressure. Toggle action presses are capable of stamping parts up to 1200mm long x 600mm wide and have become popular owing to their capacity and versatility. Another advantage of these presses is that with a fully opened toggle, the head always descends to a pre-set position for uniform stamping. This is dependent on a uniform wall thickness of the part. Roll-on presses make possible a partial or complete stamping of the periphery of cylindrical objects and also large flat contoured areas. These presses are airoperated and incorporate a mechanical adjustment for die pressure. Air ejection is available as optional equipment. Output of 800 to 2000 parts per hour can be expected. Multiple colour stampings can be achieved on this equipment providing the colours are on separate lines and a separation of 1.5 3mm is maintained between colours. This type of equipment is recommended for hot stamping odometer and counter wheels, lipstick tubes, knobs, television escutcheons, auto dash panels, plastic bottles and air conditioning grills. Clam shell mechanically operated presses with automatic feeding and restacking of the product. These presses are used for such products as greeting cards, letterheads and cartons. Cylinder presses, based on the cylinder letterpress machine where the hot plate is mounted to the moving bed usually have autofeed and restacking facilities. These presses are used for foiling large sheets of paper and board. Rotary letterpress machines, used for reel to reel pressure sensitive label making are capable of running up to speeds of 300 meters per minute.
2. 2.
3. 3.
4. 4.
5. 5.
6. 6.
27
Milford Astor B Diagram C
HAND OPERATED PRESS
CLAM ACTION PRESS
TOGGLE ACTION PRESS
FOILING SECTION OF ROTARY LABEL PRESS
ROLL-ON PRESS FOR PLASTICS & MDF
DIRECT ACTION AIR OPERATED PRESS
CYLINDER HOT FOIL PRESS WITH AUTO FEED
Milford Astor
Foil Selection Guide

Metallic Foils - For Graphics
Grade EDJ
Available in shades 000, 001, 027, 029
It is always advisable to check availability of stock Easy Release Foil

Suitable for coated and uncoated papers and boards, acetate, blockable UV inks and varnishes on platen and cylinder machines. Temperature range 100 - 120 degrees C.
Grade EFA Grade EFE
Available in shades 001, 002, 006, 013, 017, 027, 028, 029 Available in shades 000, 001, 003, 006, 013, 017, 025, 027, 029, 036, 091, 095, 097, 266
Tight Release Foil Easy Release Foil
Fine detail foil for smooth and coated paper stocks, leather and wood. Temperature range 110 - 140 degrees C. General purpose foil for large areas, suitable for dry and smooth papers and boards. Ideal for fast running machines such as Bobst, Gietz and Heidelberg cylinder machines. Temperature range 80 - 130 degrees C.
Grade EFF
Available in shades 000, 001, 006, 017, 027, 029, 036, 241, 257, 260, 261, 262, 266, 267, 268, 269, 299, 308
Medium Release Foil
Fine detail to medium solid work on plain papers and boards. Also suitable for blockable UV inks and varnishes. Temperature range 110 - 125 degrees C.
Grade 537
Available in shades 002, 008, 029, And others on request.
Easy Release Foil
General purpose foil for large areas, suitable for dry and smooth surfaces. Ideal for fast running machines such as, Bobst, Gietz and Heidelberg cylinder machines. Temperature range 80 - 130 degrees C.
Grade GP
Available in shades 385, 428, SM, SBR
Medium Release Foil
Versatile foil offering medium release whilst producing fine clean impressions. Suitable for coated and uncoated stocks, most inks, lacquers and OPP laminates. Suitable for rotary, cylinder and platen machines. Temperature range 110 - 180 degrees C.
Grade UNC
Available in shades 385, 425, 428, SM, SBR
Easy Release Foil (Overstampable)
Versatile foil offering easy release, produces clean, sharp impressions. Suitable for coated stock and very suitable for uncoated stocks. Overstamps most coatings, inks and UV varnishes. Suitable for rotary, cylinder and platen machines. Temperature range 110 - 200 degrees C.
Grade OVP
Available in shades 385, SBR
Medium Release Foil (Overprintable)
Versatile foil offering easy release, produces clean, sharp impressions. Suitable for coated and uncoated stocks. Overstamps most coatings, inks and UV varnishes. Suitable for rotary, cylinder and platen machines. Temperature range 110 - 180 degrees C.
Grade LCF
Available in shades 000, 385
Cold Foil (Free Radical Type)
Fast release up to 300m/minute. Requires special adhesive which is readily available.
Milford Astor Metallic Foils - For Graphics

(continued) Grade 700 Series
Medium Release Foil
Suitable for many types of papers and boards. Will print on most inks, lacquers and blockable UV varnishes. Suitable for use on platen and cylinder machines. Temperature range 120 - 160 degrees C.
Grade 045
Available in shades 10, 23, 33, 46, 64, 70
Medium Release Foil
Suitable for all types of smooth papers and boards. Will print on most inks and UV varnishes, for fine to medium print definition. Temperature range 110 - 150 degrees C,
Grade 100 Grade 101
Available in shade 000 Available in shade 001
Medium Release Foil
General purpose foil for most types of stocks including plastic coated, Celloglazed varnished & UV varnished papers and boards. General purpose foil for most plastics including PP PE and ABS. , Temperature range 110 - 130 degrees C.
Grade 140 000 Grade 140 300 Grade 030
Available in shade 000 Available in a shade similar to 001 Available in shades 10, 14, 23, 26, 33, 60, 62, 64
Easy Release Foil
Suitable for parchment, leather, nylon polymer, satin acetate, all types of papers and boards for medium to large detail. Temperature range 100 - 130 degrees C.
Medium Release Foil Easy Release Foil
Suitable for credit card tipping. General purpose, will suit most stocks. Temperature range 110 - 140 degrees C. General purpose foil for large areas, suitable for dry and smooth papers and boards. Developed for scuff resistance of embossed image areas. Ideal for fast running machines such as Bobst, Gietz, and Heidelberg cylinder machines. Temperature range 80 - 120 degrees C.
Grade GFE
Available in shades 095, 098, 107, 108, 123, 127, 241, 257, 260, 261, 262, 267, 268, 269, 277, 299, 308
0
Milford Astor Metallic Foils - For Plastics, Leathers & Fabrics

It is always advisable to check availability of stock Grade EFF
Available in shades 000, 001, 006, 017, 029, 036, 241, 257, 260, 261, 262, 266, 267, 268, 269, 299, 308
Medium to Tight Release Foil
Suitable for tipping conventional plastics such as styrene and PVC. Temperature range 110 - 130 degrees C.
Grade 591 Grade 595 Grade 100 Grade 101
Medium Release Foil Easy Release Foil
Suitable for PVC, leather and some fabrics. Temperature range 110 - 125 degrees C. Suitable for PVC, leather and some fabrics. Temperature range 110 - 125 degrees C.
Available in shades 000, 001, 011
Available in shade 000 Available in shade 001
Medium Release Foil
An extremely flexible foil suitable for most plastics including polypropylene, polyethylene, ABS and styrene. Excellent high temperature performance. Temperature range 130 - 150 degrees C.
Grade 140 000 Grade 140 300
Available in shade 000 Available in a shade similar to 001
Easy Release Foil
Suitable for parchment, leather, nylon polymer, grained book cloth, satin ribbons and all types of papers and boards for medium to large detail. Temperature range 100 - 130 degrees C.
Grade M 160 Series
Available in shade 000 and a shade similar to 029
Medium Release Foil
Very flexible foil for rigid plastics such as ABS and styrene, but especially for polypropylene and polyethylene. High resistance to diluted acids. Fine to medium coverages, metal die. Temperature range 120 - 200 degrees C.
Grade YS
Medium Release Foil Medium Release Foil
Suitable for some PVC and polyolefins. Temperature range 110 - 130 degrees C. Very universal quality for the plastics industry. Suitable for use on PS, PVC, ABS, SAN and PET. Excellent for tipping eg. Shampoo bottles. Temperature range 110 - 200 degrees C.
Grade PS GG2
Available in a shade similar to 001
Grade PT SLI
Available in shade 000
Tight Release Foil
Suitable for roll on application using metal or rubber dies for blown bottles, PE and PP . Temperature range 120 - 200 degrees C.

Milford Astor Matt Pigment Foils

Grade CDF
Available in shades 1, 3, 4, 6, 9
It is always advisable to check availability of stock Date Coding Foil Date Coding Foil Date Coding Foil Date Coding Foil
Versatile product. Applications include packaging films such as polyethylene, cellophane, right through to some label stocks. Specially formulated, gives extra adhesion for foil tablet packs, foiled Easter egg packs, for use when other coding foils scratch off. High speed application ideally suited to low melt packaging films. Polyethylene, vinyl and frozen food bags. Fine detail, suitable for varnished pharmaceutical labels, cheese packs and other vacuum packed foods.
Grade CDF A Series

Grade CDF P Series

Grade CDF 4 Series

Grade CDF 5 Series

Medium Release Foil Cold Stamping Foil Scratch Off Foil
Suitable for large area prints, gives this series a wide scope of applications, including date coding. Used by bakeries to mark styrene bread bag seals. Suitable for gloss boards, inks, UV varnishes, plastics such as credit cards, phone cards and game cards. Temperature range 110 - 130 degrees C.
Grade CDF PH Series

Grade DAG Grade DAH Grade DBA
Medium to Soft Release Foil
Bronze foil that can be overprinted. Resistant to smudge. Suitable for a very wide range of substrates. Temperature range 110 - 150 degrees C.
Available in shades 001, 016, 017, 018, 021, 025
Tight Release, Fine to Medium Detail
Suitable for most coated or smooth papers and boards. Also suitable for nylon, styrene and PVC. Temperature range 110 - 150 degrees C.
Grade DBF Grade DBJ
Tight Release Foil
Extra fine detail foil. Ideal for coated papers and boards. Temperature range 110 -150 degrees C.
Medium to Soft Release Foil
Bronze powder type. Suitable for a very wide range of substrates, including polyurethane and polypropylene. Take care, this foil could corrode and rub off if in contact with carbon and acidic substrates. Temperature range 110 - 130 degrees C.
Grade DCB
Available in shades 001, 005, 010, 012, 018, 021, 025, 031, 073, 171, 178, 180, 184, 205, 206, 625, 626, 632
Easy Release Foil
Suitable for a large range of substrates including coated and uncoated stocks, ABS, acetate, acrylic, cellophane and styrene. Temperature range 100 - 150 degrees C.
Grade DHE Grade LT
Available in shades 001, 012, 018, 021
Easy Release Foil Easy Release Foil
Suitable for a large range of substrates including coated and uncoated papers, boards and plastic films. Temperature range 100 - 150 degrees C. Suitable for a large range of substrates, including coated and uncoated stocks. Temperature range 100 - 130 degrees C.

Milford Astor Gloss Pigment Foils For Plastics

It is always advisable to check availability of stock Grade A Series Grade B Series Grade DFJ Grade PP1
Available in B12A White, B10A Black, B24A Yellow Available in B233PR Black Available in shade 021 Black
Medium Release Foil Fine Release Foil
Suitable for polyethylene, PVC, acrylic, ABS, acetate, polypropylene, metal or rubber dies. Designed for polypropylene and polyethylene, metal dies.
Tight Release Foil
Suitable for ABS, styrene, acetate, nylon and PVC. Temperature range 110 -130 degrees C.
Available in shades 1016 White 4728 Dark Red 6721 Dark Blue 7028 Dark Green 9110 Black
Medium Release Foil
Suitable for polyethylene, polypropylene, vertical and roll on presses. Temperature range 120 -155 degrees C.
Grade PS1
Available in shades 1041 White 4088 Dark Red 6061 Light Blue 6237 Dark Blue 9001 Black
Medium Release Foil
Suitable for acrylic, styrene and ABS. Temperature range 135 -155 degrees C.
Grade Y Series
Available in shades 064 White 93 Black Available in shades 59724 Black 56759 Blue 54757 Red
Tight Release Foil
Designed for polypropylene and polyethylene but also suitable for styrene, ABS, metal dies. Temperature range 110 - 150 degrees C.
Grade SV Series
Quick Release Foil
Designed for stamping onto soft vinyl, such as IV bags and blood bags.
For Shades Available Request Samples
Milford Astor Semi-Gloss Pigment Foils For Plastics

It is always advisable to check availability of stock Grade Semi-Gloss
Available in shades SI9 230 White SH9 231 Black SA 9232 Red SC9 234 Yellow SB9 237 Orange SD9 238 Dark Green SD9 233 Light Green SE9 239 Dark Blue SE9 240 Light Blue SG9 241 Brown
Easy Release General Purpose Foil
This low temperature foil shows excellent results on soft PVC and polypropylene but is also suitable for most other plastics using metal dies. Rubber dies can be used when required. This grade is ideal for a second surface on clear plastic. Also suitable on some leathers. Temperature range 110 - 200 degrees C, depending on the type of plastic being stamped.
For Shades Available Request Samples
Gloss Pigment Foils (for a variety of applications)

It is always advisable to check availability of stock Grade DFJ
Easy Release Foil
Suitable for coated and uncoated papers, credit card tipping, styrene and ABS. Not suitable for plasticised surfaces. Can be used as an alternative to DFD. Temperature range 110 - 130 degrees C.
Grade DFD
Available in shades 021, 094, 096, 191, 192, 193, 194, 226, 227, 228, 479
Medium Release Foil
Transparent gloss foil, excellent fine detail and large area properties on gloss white paper and acetates. Substrate colours cause colour change owing to transparent nature of foil, therefore it is suggested for use on gloss white substrates only. Can be used with other colours to give special effects. Temperature range 110 -130 degrees C.
Grade FFF
Available in shade 000 (clear)
Medium Release Foil
Used to increase gloss level on printed surface, for highlighting. Temperature range 110 - 130 degrees C.
Grade CC
Tight Release Foil
Suitable for credit card tipping. Temperature range 110 - 130 degrees C.

Milford Astor Pearl Foils

Grade DFE It is always advisable to check availability of stock
Available in shades 109, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 125, 214, 220, 471, 472, 474, 475, 621, 622
Medium Release Foil
Suitable for coated and uncoated papers and boards. Temperature range 110 -120 degrees C.
Grade DFF
Easy Release Foil
Suitable for coated and uncoated papers and boards. Temperature range 110 -120 degrees C.

Milford Astor Metallic Foils for Rotary & Cylinder Presses

It is always advisable to check availability of stock Grade GP
Available in shades 385, 428, SM, SBR
Medium Release Foil
Versatile foil offering medium release while producing fine clean impressions. Suitable for coated and uncoated stocks, most inks, lacquers and OPP laminates. Suitable for rotary, cylinder and platen machines. Temperature range 110 - 180 degrees C.
Grade UNC
Available in shades 385, 425, 428, SM, SBR
Easy Release Foil (Overstampable)
Versatile foil offering easy release, produces clean, sharp impressions. Suitable for coated stock and very suitable for uncoated stocks. Overstamps most coatings, inks and UV varnishes. Suitable for rotary, cylinder and platen machines. Temperature range 110 - 200 degrees C.
Grade OVP
Medium Release Foil (Overstampable)
Versatile foil offering easy release, produces clean sharp impressions. Suitable for coated and uncoated stocks. Overstamps most coatings, inks and UV varnishes. Suitable for rotary, cylinder and platen machines. Temperature range 110 - 180 degrees C.
We have a seperate article written on Rotary Hot Stamp Process. It is available on request.

Milford Astor Specialty Foils

Security - Holographic We are specialist suppliers of optical variable devices (OVDs) for brand authentication and security applications. Bank note and high security markets include passports, ID systems, government documents, stamps, travellers cheques, gift vouchers, travel tickets, event tickets and cheques. Brand protection markets include licensed merchandise, pharmaceuticals, automotive parts, fashion industry and software industry. Products include holograms-2D, 3-D, transfer foils and labels, tamper evident holographic labels, holographic tear tapes, holographic hot stamp foils and holographic thread. Packaging - Holographic Holographic film, laminates and papers find applications in label manufacture, packaging, confectionery, snackfood, detergent, health care, cosmetics, wine and spirits, display, point of sale and publishing. Foils for Timber / Medium Density Fibreboard Specialty foils for timber products such as picture frames, trophies, furniture, kitchen cabinets, etc, are available in a range of patterns and colours including solid colours, woodgrains, marbles and special effects. Pattern and colour matching service is also available. Washable Foils for Textiles and Apparel For the textile and apparel industries, there is a range of washable hot stamp foils for garment care labels. A range of fabrics for garment care labels is also available. These include white, pearl and black nylon, pearl and matt white non-woven polyester. Cold Foil This series of metallic foils requires no heated die. Requires application in conjunction with a free-radical cold foiling adhesive which is UV activated. Generally used on web fed machinery such as Gallus, Nilpeter, or any UV curing printing machine. We have separate article on Cold Foil Foil Application. We have a seperateaarticle writtenwritten on Cold Application. It is available on request. It is available on request.

030 045 050 055 100 101 140 000 140 300 A B CC CDF CDF 4 CDF 5 CDF/PH CDF A CDF P COLD FOILS DAG DAH DBA DBF DBJ DCB DEJ DFD DFE DFF DFJ DHE 537 EDJ EFA EFE EFF EFJ 591 595 700 GFE GP M160 OVP PP1 PS 220 PS1 PT SLI UNC SC,SE,SG SI,SH,SA,SD Y SERIES YSG2
GRADE
Quick Application Reference
Your guide to the optimum foil grade for your substrate.

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Co S a U U ted B nc P S U oat ape TR V e r A d M Inks Pa and TE at a p B S G t Pa nd er a oa lo p V n r d s Co s P ers arn d B s nv ap an ish oa W en er d es rds at ti s a Bo H erle ona nd ard D s l B s P s LD E In Ink oar ks s & d PE s PE Va rn Fi is PP lm he s PS PV C P V Ri C gid PV So C ft PE Fil T m O PP SA Fil N m Po ly A ure cr t y h Po lic an e ly A est BS e r D el rin Ep o U xy V N yl o A n ce Po tate ly Le car at b W he oo r La d cq Fa ue br re Te ic d W flo oo CA n d B Co po Sa tin ly m A er ce ta te
Milford AstorAstor Milford Foilmakers
Hot Stamping Operation

The hot stamping operation is a function of four variables: die temperature, dwell time, pressure and stripping time. (Stripping time is not so important in graphic arts application). Die Temperature is generally controlled by a thermostat or temperature controller, which is capable of maintaining head heat under normal cycle speeds in a range of 100 - 170 degrees C. Fluctuations from the set temperature should not exceed plus or minus 5 degrees C. The temperature control should be set only high enough to bring the foil and the part to a plastic state. Excessive heat will cause decomposition of the resin used in the foil and prevent its adhesion to the part. Other indications of excessive heat are flaking where the foil bridges between borders (or leaves fuzzy edges which flake off when rubbed), discolouration, and dullness of the stamping. Since the correct plastic temperatures of resins are a known factor, charts have been compiled giving the proper temperature settings for the various foil formulations and plastic materials to be stamped. These charts should be used in setting temperatures on new jobs. Normally, only minor adjustments from these temperatures will be necessary on a specific job. Experience gained with these settings will indicate that slight variations from the standard settings can be controlled by the dwell timer rather than by changing the temperature control. Care should be taken to ensure good contact between the die and the head of the press to prevent heat loss and maintain adequate heat flow. Use of higher temperatures to increase the depth of penetration of the die, to complete transfer on an uneven or improperly supported part, or to increase wear resistance should be avoided. Depth of penetration should be a function of pressure, not heat. Dwell Time is the second variable. To determine the proper dwell setting, start with the shortest dwell and increase the time in small increments until a full transfer is achieved. The shortest dwell should be measured from the time the die comes in contact with the part and not from the zero reading on the timer, since the timer starts when the head begins its downward stroke. In recording dwell time for future use, the dwell time should be measured from initial contact, since head speeds vary from press to press. As dwell time is a factor in determining the rate of production, it is obvious that the fastest dwell setting is desirable. To accomplish this, heat should be raised by increments of 5 - 10 degrees C. Once the heat has stabilised at the new setting, reduce the dwell time to just above the point of incomplete transfer. Pressure determines the depth of penetration of the stamp below the surface of the part. Of equal importance is the matter of head velocity which controls die impact. Also to be considered is a mechanical depth stop control. On toggle presses the depth of penetration is set by raising or lowering the worktable. When the toggle is closed, the head will always stop at the same point.
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On direct-acting air presses, the depth of penetration is set by raising or lowering the work table (on some presses of this type, the entire head of the press can be lowered to achieve the same effect). With metal dies, use of low head pressure to control depth of penetration results in changing dwell times and erratic transfer. To obtain a mechanical stop and minimise head speed variations, which affect dwell time, close to the maximum recommended air pressure should be used. This is normally 80 - 100 p.s.i. and in most cases never below 50 p.s.i. Note that air pressure at the press should be set approximately 10 p.s.i. below line pressure to eliminate fluctuations due to the on-off cycle of the compressor. Such fluctuations would result in erratic timing. Speed applications should be set high enough to achieve the penetration and slow enough to prevent damage to the part and die. Rules for tipping raised areas with silicone rubber pads are different to those for metal dies because the head velocity must be reduced to give a light 'kiss' impression. Head stop control also is extremely important since excessive repetitive compression of the silicone pad at high velocities will result in poorer quality stamping and more rapid breakdown of the silicone pad. Use of make-ready to build up areas of no transfer once the head stop control has been set, enabling the silicone pads to just contact the part, is preferable to a pressure increase. This is extremely important with plated metallic foils since excessive pressure will result in a dull finish. Stripping Time is the fourth variable. After the hot die has lifted off the part, sufficient time must be allowed for the transferred material to cool and harden on the part. The carrier is now stripped from the part and the transfer is complete. Obviously, stripping the carrier while the resin is still in the plastic state will result in incomplete transfer or pulling the pigment and even some resin away. Proper adjustment of the foil stripper bars can assist this situation. In the case of a travelling foil feed, as the die starts its downward motion, the stripper bars push the foil ahead of the die onto the part. As the die continues downward, the stripper bars hold the foil onto the part until the head returns. As the compressed springs are released, the stripper bars rise, separating the foil from the part. Most machines now have foil feed delay timers fitted. If longer cooling time is required, the foil feed delay time should be increased. On machines without foil feed delay timers, the stripper bars must be set lower. The proper cycle should be set by laying the foil onto the part by hand. Then, the foil should be threaded through the press with the stripper bars adjusted so that the foil passes 12mm below the die. After making a test stamping, the stripper bars should be lowered until transfer is complete. In extreme cases where stripper bars cannot be lowered sufficiently, the foil feed should be slowed down. Conclusion: The hot stamping process is ideally suited to the decoration of many products. Being a dry printing process, parts can be packed immediately at the machine. Stampings are permanent and inexpensive. As it is a simple process, Operator training is minimised. By following the procedures outlined in this catalogue, trouble-free hot stamping can be achieved.
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Bottle Stamping & Roll-on Stamping
The technology matches the workpiece
The mechanics of the stamping process vary depending on the type and shape of the workpiece to be enhanced. The most important difference between the various design principles is the method by which the pressure is transferred from the stamping tool to the workpiece. On this basis the various methods are vertical stamping, circumferential marking, inflation stamping for bottles and similar hollow bodies and roll-on stamping.
1.
Vertical Stamping The presses for this process, in which the stamping tool moves vertically up and down at each stroke, are generally termed vertical presses in enhancement of plastics. Depending on the system used to generate the pressure they are divided into mechanically, pneumatically and electromagnetically operating vertical presses. In the pure vertical stamping process flat parts can be stamped using a flat tool, convex parts using a corresponding shaped concave tool and concave parts using a convex tool to match the workpiece. With curvatures, the stamping angle should not exceed 90o. Up to 25% of the circumference of a cylindrical part can be enhanced using vertical stamping provided the tools match the workpieces. These are maximum figures which only apply if the radii are sufficiently large.
2.
Circumferential Marking Hot stamping can be performed all around the workpiece on presses which are similar in their basic design to vertical presses. Special holding fixtures, rotating supports and horizontal guides for the workpiece complete the stamping presses for circumferential marking. The special feature of this process is that a cylindrical workpiece (can, sleeve, tube, screw cap) is rolled under a flat stamping tool and the foil is stationary. The back pressure is produced by two support rollers on which the cylindrical workpiece rotates. The support rollers and the workpiece holding fixture (location pin) together form the rolling device and are carried forwards horizontally by means of a drive system (support). The forward
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drive is controlled pneumatically or electrically while the roll-on movement is usually mechanically controlled. Numbering wheels, too, are normally stamped by this method. Special equipment allows extremely accurate automatic positioning of the injection moulded part. Using this process it is also easy to stamp slight conical parts, the die being shifted somewhat on the workpiece to even out the difference in the roll-on speed of the large and small diameters. Parts with a conical angle of over 1o to 2o must be positioned on a special roll-on device, which permits the workpiece to rotate around the imagined apex of the cone. Parts which are strongly conical cause difficulties for circum-ference m a r k i n g, b e c a u s e t h e d i f f e r e n t circumferential speeds of the large and small diameters make it almost impossible to foil. In circumferential marking the location of the stamping die must always be in register with the hartline of the moulding. The lowest temperature for the platen and stamping tool during the working stroke is accurately determined by the depth stop. This device restricts the downward motion of the pump rod in pneumatic systems when pressure builds up in the cylinder by means of a mechanical stop. In circumferential marking the roll-on device is moved from one end setting to the other end setting. The roll-on speed is controlled and the distance rolled by a time switch or limit switch. The stamping process begins, as soon as the front edge of the heated tool comes into contact with the circumference of the workpiece. It continues until the rear end of the stamping tool is reached. When the workpiece makes initial contact or leaves the stamping tool, excessively deep or insufficiently deep stamping may occur, depending on the stamped image. This can be counteracted by attaching a front or end piece made from thermally insulating material (laminated plastic) at the beginning and end of the stamping tool. A corresponding lateral mask of insulating material helps to support the stamping die on the workpiece and also prevents the tool sinking too deeply into the surface of the workpiece. Parts which need to have the stamped image matched precisely with a functional edge or another printed image, are rolled under positive drive. For this a pinion is attached on the axle of the workpiece holding fixture. The diameter of the pitched circle of this pinion coincides with the diameter

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under the stamped image. When the roller device is moved forward the pinion meshes in a gear rack and drives the workpiece. With positive drive as with rolling under friction, the line connecting the axes of the supporting rollers o should form an angle of approx 90 with the axis of the workpiece. 3. Bottle Stamping This variation of hot stamping was developed for hollow bodies, in which the back pressure required for hot stamping cannot be produced by mechanical means because of their shape and elasticity. Hot stamping is carried out in this case in a two part mould, which fits exactly round the external contours of the plastic bottle. The bottle is laid in the lower half of the open mould. The upper half of the mould contains the stamping tool, which must also be matched exactly to the contours of the bottle, and the guides for the stamping foil. The hot stamping process is as follows: the two halves of the shroud are closed, and the bottle is inflated through a mouthpiece via a control valve using compressed air at approx. 8 to 10 bar. The expansion of the bottle causes the wall of the bottle to be pressed against the stamping foil and the stamping tool located above the bottle. The internal pressure in the bottle thus generates the printing pressure for the hot stamping. The contact is ended by letting out the compressed air. The shroud can now be opened and the hollow body removed. 4. Roll-on Stamping In this process a stamping tool in the form of a (normally externally) heated silicone rubber roller is rolled over a workpiece on which stamp foil has been laid; in this way lines, letters and decoration, which are embossed on the moulded parts (relief injection moulded parts) can be coated with stamping foil as also can flat surfaces and continuous sections. A typical example of the roll-on method is the rotation of a round roller over a flat surface, in which only a narrow continually moving zone is in contact (line contact). The contact time is usually very short and has to be compensated for by higher operating temperatures, and by the use of particularly easily releasing stamping foils. The workpieces are placed on a moving table or on a conveyor belt and are moved forward at constant velocity under the stamping roller or stamping wheel.

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The roll-on method is not limited, however, to flat objects. This process is suitable, in principle, for any workpieces on which a stamping foil can lie without creasing. This includes, for example, cylindrical, oval, square edged and other convex bodies with parallel side lines running in the direction of the stamping roller axis. Using appropriately fitted stamping roller or wheels, even grooved profile strips or external radii can be continuously stamped by the roll-on method. In such cases excessive differences in the diameters in stamping wheels should be avoided, since large differences in the circumferential speeds cause folding in the stamping foil. With workpieces of this kind it is recommended that very deep and raised parts of the cross section be enhanced in separate operations. The same applies for very pronounced curvatures, where a stamping angle of 120o would be obtained, for example, by using two stamping wheels in series each at 65o. The applicability of this technique depends naturally on the decoration of the stamping foil selected. Typical examples of the use of the roll-on process are housings for sound and television equipment, frames and furniture strips, windscreens for motor vehicles and other similar parts. In other words, workpieces which are not suitable for vertical stamping because of their shape or for which the necessary printing pressure cannot be economically achieved in vertical printing presses because of their large surface area. In this variation of the hot stamping process the design of the workpiece holding fixture requires much care. much care.
Workpiece holding fixture for the roll-on stamping of the front panel of an instrument with windows: 1 front piece, 2 core pieces, 3 end piece, each at the height of the workpiece, set 2mm away from the workpiece.

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Thus, for example, front pieces must be positioned in front of the tool so that the stamping roller is set down on a connected surface and not on the edge of the workpiece. In this way a clear imprint is obtained and the silicone stamping tool is protected. Front pieces also result in the longitudinal folds in the stamping foil, which form when the stamping roller descends, being first rolled flat. End pieces behind the workpiece have the effect of shifting the problem zone when the stamping roller is lifted from the workpiece. Front and end pieces must be at the exact height of the workpiece, as must the so-called core pieces in the workpiece holding fixture which are used to fill large cutouts (Windows) in the workpieces. Core pieces also help to prevent folds forming in the stamping foil. A particular variation of this process is roll-on stamping using a cylindrical stamping tool, the circumference of which is covered with characters, symbols, numbers, etc. This is used in particular for marking cables, plastic pipes, for hot stamping continuously running packaging sheets, or for decorative purposes.
Diagram B C
TOOLING
3
Die Top Shroud Top surfaces horizontal Part
Mandrell
Air
Bottle
Part Lay
Bottom Shroud
Part
Part
Nest
Support

Milford Astor Hot Stamping Substrates

Printing techniques concern the reproduction of written, pictorial and ornamental images on paper, cardboard and similar materials. But hot stamping however is an application well outside this definition. All wettable materials paper and board, thermoplastics and duroplastics, leather and textiles, wood and many other materials can be printed, stamped, coated, or refined with hot stamping foils: In brief, they can be finished to a specification.
Cast Coated and Machine Coated Papers and Boards

These are among the least troublesome of print carriers and do not restrict the choice of stamping foil. With cast coated types, pressure and temperature activate adhesion of the surface coating, which benefits hot stamping. This intrinsic adhesive action only has an undesirable effect in types coated both sides by causing the printing sheet to stick to the packing. In such cases, easy release stamping foils, which permit low stamping temperature, must be used in order not to activate the intrinsic adhesive effect of the material. The make-ready should be covered, if it consists of a plastic material such as Makrolon, etc., with a protective sheet. Easy release types of stamping foil have proved more suitable for stamping solid areas since compression force applied to the cardboard coating can be reduced. It can be observed that the coating is pressure sensitive particularly in the case of cast coated types with a relatively high unit weight, which can produce poor results in stamping solid areas due to the formulation of shadows and small blemishes.
Papers and Boards with Smooth or Rough Surfaces

Untreated papers and boards are suitable for hot stamping as long as they are not synthetic papers. A smooth surface structure permits great latitude in the use of tight release or easy release stamping foils. The rougher the surface, the less the latitude with the tight release types and the greater the latitude with the easy release types of stamping foils. Easy release types of stamping foil come away from the carrier under relatively slight temperature changes. Their adhesive layer is in most cases formulated to produce a high bonding effect. Of the easy release types of stamping foil, those with a thick, elastic coating, such as grade EFE and 140 should be selected, to cover rough surfaces well. The degree of fineness of hot stampings can suffer from rough surfaces, and the easy release types are necessary for this purpose.
Lacquered, Coated or Foil-laminated Papers and Boards

Papers and boards with metallic plastic coatings, particularly involving the use of polyolefins such as polyethylene, accept stamping foil only with great difficulty. Particularly high demands are placed on the adhesion of the stamping foil by boards that have been foil-laminated or specially coated with polypropylene, particularly with areas of solid print or similar decoration. However, other surface coatings, such as, Chromolux Metallic or Chromolux Colour, also limit the use of hot stamping. Such eg. Chromolux Metallic or Chromolux Colour, also limit the use of hot stamping. Such print carriers tend to gas quickly. Solid areas stamping should therefore be applied print carriers tend to gas quickly. Solid areas stamping should therefore be applied preferably with rotary or cylinder stamping machines. preferably with rotary or cylinder stamping machines. However, on all these print carriers hot stamping in the form of lettering, lines and generally be small ornamental areas can be generally done without trouble using any machine.

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It should also be borne in mind that subsequent damage from plasticisers can occur not only with soft PVC foils, but also with PVC coated self-adhesive papers (plasticiserresistant stamping foils).
Leather Fibrous Substrates, Soft PVC Foils

Leather fibrous substances are normally less problematic printing materials. The fineness of the hot stamping that can be executed is largely governed by the grain of the surface. A rough surface of coarse grain refracts light, which can make fine lettering illegible (filling). It should also be remembered that a good surface covering is extremely difficult to obtain on coarse-grained materials since the grain cannot be smoothly printed in the normal stamping procedure. Although very fine lettering can be produced with tighter release stamping foils, it should not be done below a certain limit. Soft PVC can also be hot stamped without much difficulty with selected foils. With the normal stamping method the same restrictions apply as in the case of leather, fibrous substances and grained, nitrocoated papers. For grained PVC materials embossing is by high-frequency stamping methods, in which the area is previously smoothed by high frequency embossing.
Creasing of Hot Stamped Impressions

If a crease or fold extending over the hot stamping impression is to be made in the substrate, eg. in the production of folding boxes, it is absolutely essential to check the creasability of the applied stamping foil in each case. It is not sufficient to test the creasing behaviour of the cardboard or paper base material on principle. All further finishings, such as offset printing, lacquering or foil lamination, affect the creasability of a material. The same comments also apply to the hot stamping finishing stage. We recommend that you check the creasability of the hot stamped impression and substrate, at the beginning and during the production run. An optical evaluation is not enough to ensure quality given the extreme stresses to which a surface is subjected during folding and creasing, and in the carton gluing machine after treatment. For this reason creasability must be supplemented by passing the specimen through a gluing machine. Hot stamping near an area which has to be later folded or creased must be subjected to the most thorough care and quality checks.

Milford Astor Stamping Dies

The collective term is used to cover all functional parts which transfer heat and compressive force to the stamping foil and the workpiece during the hot stamping process and whose surface layout determines the stamping image. In the wider sense this also includes die plates, stamping rollers and wheels for large area transfer. In the narrow sense we mean by stamping tools (so-called stamping dies), plates with a surface design in three dimensions, the raised parts of which transfer the active layers of stamping foil on to the surface of the workpiece. Depending on the type of hot stamping process used (vertical stamping, circumferential marking, bottle stamping, roll-on stamping) and the surface design of the workpiece (plain, convex, concave), the stamping components on the stamping die can lie on a flat, convex or concave plane. The difficulties in manufacturing curved stamping tools do indeed have an effect on the price, but the basic demands placed by hot stamping on the tools are much the same for all the different types. Depending on the material used, the tools are divided into metal stamping dies and silicone stamping dies.
Metal Stamping Dies

There are two different basic manufacturing methods: etching and engraving of stamping tools. The materials suited for the manufacture of etched stamping tools are copper, magnesium, brass and steel. The particular advantage of etched stamping tools is that the manufacturing method is inexpensive, based on etching from a photographically reproduced original. Since the costs are based on the size of the surface area of the tool, it is an inexpensive method for producing difficult motifs, eg. ornaments, lines, large blocks of text. of text. Subsequent engraving work is sometimes necessary.
Magnesium Die Etched Magnesium Die.
Etched Copper Die. Etched Coper Die

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Engraved Metal Stamping Tools
Engraved steel stamping die matched Engraved steel stamping die matched toto the workpiece on two planes the workplace on two planes.
Stamping tools on which are placed strict requirements for accuracy and stability are manufactured by precision engraving from brass or steel. The hardness of brass is sufficient to make this material suitable for hot stamping even in large runs. On the other hand brass is not as hard as steel and can be worked more easily and is therefore also suitable for tools where a lot of material has to be cut away from the blank, because of the design, eg. stamping tools for vertical stamping and convex and concave parts and for bottle stamping. Steel is becoming increasingly popular as a material for engraved stamping tools. Steel stamping tools should be made from low distortion tool steel so that they remain true to size even after hardening. A hardened steel stamping die shows hardly any wear under normal load and is therefore suitable for large runs. Since steel can be worked with particular precision, special stamping tools for geometrical instruments, rulers and number wheels should also be made in steel, as should stamping equipment with interchangeable parts, such as type brackets. Any slight damage on metal stamping tools, eg. caused by foreign bodies, can be repaired by the specialist. Where dies are purchased, the die vendor should be supplied with a sample, a print or drawing of the part, and black and white artwork of the impression. The print should be used for reference only and the part for matching. Artwork should be drawn 1:1 for large dies and 2:1 for smaller dies. Photographic positive can be substituted for black and white artwork. It should be noted that the sharper the artwork, the sharper the die.

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Silicone Rubber Pads
Silicone Rubber Pads are used to hot stamp onto raised surfaces of plastic mouldings, this process is called tipping. Silicone rubber is used because it can withstand heat, and being elastic it will compensate for variations in the height of the moulding. The raised surface may be a logo, lettering or a surround of a panel. These are formed by engraving the plastic moulding die and should allow the raised surface to be a minimum of 1.5mm high. Silicone rubber is available in thicknesses from 1/32 to 1/4 inch bonded to either steel or aluminium of 1/32 or 1/8 inch thickness. The thickness of the silicone selected will depend on the amount and height of the raised area and the degree of distortion of the part. The following guide to maximum desirable penetration by the part is suggested. Rubber Thickness 0.794mm (1/32 inch) 1.588mm (1/16 inch) 3.175mm (1/8 inch) Penetration 0.254 - 0.397mm (1/100 - 1/64 inch) 0.397 - 0.794mm (1/64 - 1/32 inch) 0.794 - 1.588mm (1/32 - 1/16 inch)
The deeper the penetration, the shorter the life of the silicone rubber. Sharp edges on the plastic part should be avoided as they will cut into the pad and reduce its life. Die temperatures of 150 - 200 degrees C (thermostat setting 200 - 250 degrees C) are necessary. It should be noted that excess heat will cause delamination of the rubber from its aluminium base and mechanical abuse will quickly damage the rubber face. Correct usage of silicone rubber will result in a life of up to 20,000 - 30,000 impressions, increased brilliance of gold and silver foils, improved adhesion and surface hardness, lower rejects, increased production and more uniform and attractive prints. Note that rubber pads should not be used carelessly to overcome poor alignment between die and fixture bed; or to compensate for excessive sinks and distortions caused by poor design and moulding techniques.
Moulded Silicone Rubber Dies

Moulded Silicone Rubber Dies are also used for first and second surface stamping of plastic items, which are unusual in design, and where a 'laid on' foil effect rather than an 'embossed' effect is required. They can also compensate, to a degree, for irregularities in the part being stamped.
Tooling
see Three basic materials are used for fixtures: epoxy, aluminium and steel (not hardened). Fixtures serve two purposes. The first is to position the part accurately under the stamping die. The second is to support the part properly when pressure is applied by the die. Lack of proper support will allow the part to shift out of position, causing stamping of uneven depth and missing prints. Poor support may also result in cracking or crazing of the plastic and / or foil shown. in diagram B on page See diagram C on page 39.
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Milford Astor
Epoxy Fixtures are used mostly by stampers who must contend with short runs or complex shapes. These fixtures usually are cast directly from the part to be stamped and the back is either sanded or milled flat. They are also used to match irregular surfaces or contours. Epoxy fixtures require continuous 'make-ready' throughout the production run because they continually flatten due to the pressure and heat exerted by the die. The term 'make-ready' refers to the use of tape, cork, rubber or other materials to build up depressed areas of the fixture to properly support the part when die pressure is exerted. See Make-ready, page 32. Aluminium Fixtures are often used in the industry because of their ease of workability, and because of reduced machining cost when compared to steel. One disadvantage of aluminium is that the steel die will make an imprint on the fixture if the operator lowers the head without placing a part on the fixture. In this case, the fixture must be reworked to properly support the part. Steel Fixtures offer the best results in quality stamping and provide protection against damage due to accidental operation of the press. Steel fixtures can be silver soldered or welded and hand filed to match the contour of the part. All fixtures must match the contour of the part and support the stamping area. Proper selection and use of fixtures will reduce downtime and rejects, resulting in increased production. Make-Ready is the term used to ensure that the product to be stamped and the stamping die are exactly in contact to ensure a perfect result. To help correct these irregularities, various materials such as cardboard, rubber or a mixture of cork and rubber supplied in sheet form are available. In the graphic arts area, where an embossed or raised effect is required, specialty products such as pour-a-counter are available. See page 32.

Milford Astor Make-Ready Materials and General Supplies

Milford Astor has developed a comprehensive range of made-ready materials. These have been selected to enable the user to achieve a high consistency in quality print performance with increased productivity. The following information details each product and its uses.
Black Printing Underlay

This product is used extensively throughout the foiling industry for flat stamping, suitable for most platen presses. Quite resilient and yet soft enough to compensate for minor variations. Supplied in sheets.
Die Mounting Tape

A heat activated tape for adhering dies to the press. Also used for adhering foam support on cylinder presses. Currently stocked in: 38mm x 50m (1.5 x 150'), 310mm x 50m (12 x 150'), 75mm x 50m (3 x 150').
Epoxy Glassboard
For flat stamping and foil embossing. Extremely strong and durable make-ready base providing very clean and sharp prints. Can be used with other make-readies, such as Coverboard and Pragotherm. Epoxy Glassboard is very flat giving correct pressure across the make-ready. Recommended for all type of work from fine detail to solid areas and can be used on both Platen and Cylinder presses. Epoxy Glass is very resilient and the fact that it is extremely difficult to dent makes it ideal for very long production runs so reducing make-ready times. Epoxy Glass has also been designed for repeated use on different jobs without any detrimental effect on quality. Main advantages, very strong, even thickness across the board, cost effective, availability. Available in: 914mm x 1220mm, 25mm x 55m, 100mm x 55m, .5mm (.020), .8mm (.031), 1.0mm (.040), 1.6mm (.062), 2.4mm (.093).
Pertoid
For flat stamping and flat embossing. When flat stamping, is extremely good for fine detail printing, giving crisp, clean prints. Pertoid is recommended for Geitz and Bobsts presses. It is extremely durable, allowing longer press runs without stopping. Designed for repeated use. Currently stocked in 610mm x 610mm.
Polyurethane Sheets
For flat stamping. It is recommended for use as a unique make-ready board for flat stamping large, solid areas. Despite its flexibility, it is hard enough to resist indentation on large stampings. Its soft cushioning effect prevents bruising, even on thin, foil edged paper labels. It can be used repeatedly, by simply replacing the

Milford Astor
polyurethane tape with which it is adhered to the platen. It springs back to its original shape after stamping. Acts as a self levelling board, therefore minimising spot makeready. Suitable for Geitz and other large platen presses. Limitations: needs special tape to adhere to machine bed. Not for use when doing fine detail work. Not for use on Heidelberg presses. Currently stocked in 610mm x 610mm sheets.
Pour-A-Counter Liquid and Powder

For combination foiling and embossing. This is a two part mix system for making a counter for the female embossing die. Shelf life of the product is 24 - 30 months. Benefits to the Printer: Pour-a-Counter is very durable and good for use with deep sculptured dies. Limitations: can be slightly messy.
Presspahn
Foil flat stamping. A good standard make-ready base board with a smooth surface. Excellent for short to medium runs. Currently stocked in 1000mm x 1067mm.
Printing Base Self Adhesive

This product is used extensively throughout the foiling industry for flat stamping, suitable for most platen presses. Quite resilient and yet soft enough to compensate for minor variations and has the convenience of pressure sensitive application. Supplied in sheets 690mm x 1020mm.
Yellow Cover Board

Used for blind embossing. It provides a quick, clean and very effective method for forming a male counter for blind embossing. It can also be used on top of a Liquid and Powder formed counter to give extra depth and aid in smoothing out stock. The board is fixed to the machine bed and moistened with a damp cloth, or spray. A few impressions are made and the coverboard conforms precisely to the die producing a durable blind embossing counter. Coverboard can significantly reduce make-ready time over powder techniques which involve prolonged drying time. Currently stocked in 61cm x 48cm sheets.

Milford Astor Tips to Save Pains and Strains
Check the realistic registration tolerances of your printer and stamper to decrease rejects and ensure a quality piece. If designing large solid areas and fine intricate areas in the same design, expect to foil stamp it with two passes. Have your printer and foil stamper talk before beginning the job. COMMUNICATION CAN SAVE EVERYONE TIME AND MONEY. Ink must be wax free and not rubber-based if you are foil stamping over an inked area. Be careful to try to avoid wet trapping your inked area by varnishing before these areas are dry. Stamping over UV coatings on some applications can present a challenge. Therefore, try to use an aqueous coating or wax free varnish whenever possible, or stamp prior to UV coating. If you must stamp over UV varnish ask Milford Astor to advise the appropriate UV varnish. Check with your printer to help determine the dyne count (surface tension) of a laminated sheet. The dyne count should be higher than 40 for the sheet to be foil stamped. Keep within your customer's budget. Foil is a very economical addition when planned correctly. You may be able to save an entire run through the press with one slight adjustment of your design. Call Milford Astor to check if the foil shade you have chosen is available in the correct grade for your stock you are using and the coverage you are trying to achieve. Many pigment and pearl foils are translucent. This can drastically change the appearance on coloured stocks. Check the opacity of your chosen foil before specifying. When stamping dry, textured stocks, be sure to specify the correct foil to prevent dulling. When designing foil for letterheads to be used through laser printers, it is essential to have your customers test a stamped sample through their laser printer before running the entire job. For a quality stamp of areas designed with intricate detail, be sure the space between the lines in the design is no less than half the thickness of the stock you are using. As a general rule with hard plastics, it takes one tonne per 25mm x 25mm of stamped area. Choice of stock, die construction and make-ready can decrease tonnage needed. Check with your stamper for his equipment capabilities regarding your particular design.

Milford Astor Weights and Measurements of Master Rolls

Approximate weights and measurements (diameter) of Master Rolls 61cm (24) wide on standard 25mm (1) diameter cores on 12 micron polyester. Length metres Metallics Golds, Silvers & Colours 61 122 183 305 feet 200 400 600 1000 Diameter mm 51 57 70 89 inches 2 2 1/4 2 3/4 3 1/ 2 2 1/4 3 3 1/4 4 1/4 1 5/8 kg .90 1.72 2.35 3.06 Weight lbs 2.00 3.80 5.20 6.70
Pigmented Polyester
61 122 183 305 61
200 400 600 1000 200
57 76 82.5 105 41.5
1.27 2.54 2.90 5.17 .90
2.80 5.60 6.40 11.40 2.00
On 16mm CORES Polyester
Stamping Temperatures
The printing temperature range of Milford Astor Foilmakers foils is approx 100 - 170 degrees C. It is not possible to recommend a given temperature for any particular surface to be stamped because of the varying production conditions that are encountered. The controlling factors are as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Characteristics of the foil. Type of machine in use (hand, mechanical or air-operated and whether semi or fully automatic). Action of machine - time in contact with blocking surface, i.e., dwell. Surface to be blocked - receptive or non receptive. Type of die to be used and total area of print. Heat source. Variation between heater block and die face temperatures. Ambient conditions.
The ideal foiling temperature for metallics is the lowest possible temperature at which maximum coverage, adhesion and cleanliness is obtained.

Milford Astor
Foil Requirements Calculator - Metric
Pull length in mm 10 12 14 16 18 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 200 210 220 230 240 250 Roll 61m 6100 5083 4357 3813 3389 3050 2440 2033 1743 1525 1356 1220 1109 1017 938 871 813 763 718 678 642 610 555 508 469 436 407 381 359 339 321 305 290 277 265 254 244 Roll 122m 12200 10167 8714 7625 6778 6100 4880 4067 3486 3050 2711 2440 2218 2033 1877 1743 1624 1525 1435 1356 1284 1220 1109 1017 938 871 813 763 718 678 641 610 581 555 530 508 488 Roll 183m 18300 15250 13071 11438 10167 9150 7320 6100 5229 4575 4067 3660 3327 3050 2815 2614 2440 2288 2153 2033 1926 1830 1664 1525 1408 1307 1220 1144 1076 1017 963 915 871 832 796 763 732 Roll 305m 30500 25417 21786 19063 16944 15250 12200 10167 8714 7625 6778 6100 5545 5083 4692 4357 4067 3813 3588 3389 3211 3050 2773 2542 2346 2179 2033 1906 1794 1694 1605 1525 1452 1386 1326 1271 1220
Foil Requirements Calculator - Imperial

Pull length in inches
3 / 1 / 8 2
Roll 200 feet 5486 4800 4267 3840 3491 3200 2743 2560 2400 2133 1920 1745 1600 1477 1371 1280 1200 1129 1067 1011 960 914 873 835 800 768 738 711 686 662 640 619 600 565 533 505 480 457 436 417 400 384 369 356 343 331 320 310 300
Roll 400 feet 10971 9600 8533 7680 6982 6400 5486 5120 4800 4267 3840 3491 3200 2954 2743 2560 2400 2259 2133 2021 1920 1829 1745 1670 1600 1536 1477 1422 1371 1324 1280 1239 1200 1129 1067 1011 960 914 873 835 800 768 738 711 686 662 640 619 600
Roll 600 feet 16457 14400 12800 11520 10473 9600 8229 7680 7200 6400 5760 5236 4800 4431 4114 3840 3600 3388 3200 3032 2880 2743 2618 2504 2400 2304 2215 2133 2057 1986 1920 1858 1800 1694 1600 1516 1440 1371 1309 1252 1200 1152 1108 1067 1029 993 960 929 900
Roll 1000 feet 27429 24000 21333 19200 17455 16000 13714 12800 12000 10667 9600 8727 8000 7385 6857 6400 6000 5647 5333 5053 4800 4571 4364 4174 4000 3840 3692 3556 3429 3310 3200 3097 3000 2824 2667 2526 2400 2286 2182 2087 2000 1920 1846 1778 1714 1655 1600 1545 1500
9 /16 5 /8 11 /16 3 /4 7 /8 15 /16
1 11/ 8 1 1/ 4 13/ 8 / 11 2 15/ 8 1 3/ 4 / 17 8 2 21/ 8 2 1/ 4 23/ 8 / 21 2 25/ 8 2 3/ 4 / 27 8 3 / 31 8 / 31 4 33/ 8 / 31 2 35/ 8 3 3/ 4 / 37 8 4 4 1/ 4 / 412 4 3/ 4 5 5 1/ 4 5 1/ 2 5 3/ 4 6 / 61 4 / 61 2 6 3/ 4 7 7 1/4 / 71 2 7 3/4 8

Milford Astor
Table of cuts (from a 610mm wide roll)
Widths Inches mm 10 11 13 16 17 19 21 22 25 27 29 32 35 38 41 44 48 51 0.38 0.43 0.51 0.63 0.67 0.75 0.83 0.87 0.98 1.06 1.14 1.26 1.38 1.50 1.61 1.73 1.89 2.01 No. cuts 64 54 48 38 34 28 29 27 24 22 21 19 17 16 14 13 12 12 Offcut mm inches 0 10 0 6 10 0 11 10 0 16 10 6 16 0 32 32 38 0 0.00 0.38 0.00 0.25 0.38 0.00 0.44 0.38 0.00 0.63 0.38 0.25 0.63 0.00 1.25 1.25 1.50 0.00 Widths Inches mm 54 57 60 64 67 70 73 76 79 83 86 89 92 95 98 102 102 108 2.13 2.24 2.36 2.52 2.64 2.76 2.87 2.99 3.11 3.27 3.39 3.50 3.62 3.74 3.86 4.02 4.02 4.25 No. cuts 11 10 10 9 9 8 8 8 7 7 7 6 6 6 6 6 5 5 Offcut mm inches 16 38 6 38 10 51 25 0 54 32 10 76 57 38 19 0 7 38 0.63 1.50 1.25 1.50 0.38 2.00 1.00 0.00 2.13 26.0 0 0.38 3.00 2.25 1.50 0.75 0.00 2.75 1.50 Widths Inches mm 114 121 133 140 146 152 159 165 171 189 184 191 197 203 4.49 4.76 5.24 5.51 5.75 5.98 6.26 6.50 6.75 7.01 7.24 7.52 7.76 7.99 No. cuts 5 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 Offcut mm inches 7 102 76 51 25 0 133 114 95 76 57 38 76 0 0.25 4.00 3.00 2.00 1.00 0.00 5.25 4.50 3.75 3.00 2.25 1.50 3.00 0.00
Common Problems and Solutions

Problem 1. Bridging 2. Bad coverage 3. Foil carrier sticks to product being stamped Solution Reduce temperature and dwell. Insufficient heat or dwell. Position foil guide bars in feed side down just above the stamping surface and outfeed a little higher. This gives a peeling action rather than a snatch. Use foil with a softer release. Reduce temperature and / or dwell. This causes bridging. Set foil by die guide bars so that foil is not touching heated area. On high speed machines this can cause foil feeding problems. It can sometimes be reduced by placing a copper strip from foil bars to earth. Reduce heat or dwell. This is caused by excessive pressure. Increase temperature and / or dwell and reduce pressure. Silicone rubber bonded to aluminium. In plastics higher than normal temperature should be used as rubber is not a good conductor of heat. Check to ensure foil is not creased. Reduce foil tension on foil off-take roll. On cylindrical machines, use sponge rubber.
4. Foil pre-heated by die or platen 5. Static electricity
6. Foil rainbows 7. Blushing on polystyrene 8. Tipping raised letter or surfaces in plastics 9. Lines appear on printed product

Milford Astor Glossary of Hot Stamping Terms

Air Press: Brass Die: Blocking : Blushing: Bridging: Carrier: Clouding: Cold Foil: A pneumatic cylinder applies the force. A st amping die made from brass. Better and longer-lasting than mag die (q.v.), but more expensive. Another word used to describe Stamping. See 'Clouding' See 'Filming' The film or paper on which foil is carried in roll leaf hot stamping. A milky or cloudy appearance of stamped areas. Sometimes called blushing. A stamping foil that gives a similar result as hot stamping foil but the foil does not incorporate an adhesive coat. The foil is laid down onto a special adhesive, before UV curing and peeling off. A stamping die etched in copper, very hard, good for long runs in graphics. An adhesive-backed cork sheet used as make-ready.
Copper Die: Cork Rubber:
Corona Treatment: A method of changing the surface molecular tension of plastic films to accept inks and varnishes. Detail Foil: Dwell Time: Fibre Board: Filming: Foil best suited for stamping fine detail, such as small lettering. Length of time the heated die is allowed to remain in contact with t he piece being stamped. Stiff paper board used as make-ready. Excess particles of leaf around the edge of a stamped area. Also called bridging or flooding.
First-Surface Impressions: The stamping of foil on the top surface of a plastic part. See 'Second Surface Impression'. Flashing: Flooding: Gassing: See Filming. See 'Filming'. Caused by heated inks when stamping large areas, causing pin holes in foil, as well as entrapment of air.

Milford Astor
Glassine: Hand Press: Imitation Leaf: Foil: A brittle, high-finish fibrous paper sometimes used as a carrier for an imitation gold foil. Pressure applied by hand to a mechanical lever. The dull golds and silvers made by dusting metal powders. Also known as 'bronze powder', 'dusted leaf'. The coating which is transferred from the carrier to the hot-stamped item by a heated die. Sometimes also called 'roll leaf'. The term derives from the original gold leaf, which was beaten into thin sheets (leaves) by hand. Actually, leaf today is a coating or dispersion that is applied to a carrier film. A stamping die etched in magnesium. Usually inexpensive but does not wear well. Suitable only for relatively short runs on hard plastics and longer runs on plasterboard. Material placed beneath the object to be stamped, usually to help in correcting irregularities in either the piece itself or the stamping die. Serves also as a counter for dies that are raised or embossed.
Mag. Die:
Make-Ready:
Moulded Silicone Dies: A die moulded from silicone rubber. Used mostly for stamping plastic objects of unusual design or material. Oil Resistance: The ability of a stamped impression to withstand attack from any aliphatic and most aromatic-based liquids, i.e., motor oil, benzene, naphthalene, toluene, etc. A foil that permits no light to pass through the stamped impression. A stamping foil once applied which allows over printing with ink. A second stamping sometimes applied when the first is slightly faulty. Foil that is best suited for stamping broad areas. The effect of missing pieces of leaf from a stamped area. Solid-colour roll foil made with organic and inorganic pigment. See 'Simulated Foil'. A strong, stable plastic film used as a carrier for foil. a) The ability of a foil to be overprinted with ink, b) As well as the ability of foil to over-stamp an ink surface. An iridescent effect in a stamped area. Usually caused by too much heat in stamping metallic foils.
Opaque: Overprintable: Overstamp: Panel Foil: Picking: Pigment Foil: Plated Foil: Polyester: Printability: Rainbowing:

Release: Reverse Foil: Rotary Press:
The ease with which the foil is transferred from the carrier to the stamped part, i.e., tight, medium or soft release.
Milford Astor
See 'Second Surface Impression'. The die is round, and foil is applied as the die rotates, or a flat die and foil are applied by a rotating pressure roll which forces the paper onto a heated die.
Second-Surface Impression: The stamping of foil on the underside of a transparent part so that the co l our of the leaf shows through. Used as distinct from 'FirstSurface Impression'. Silicone Rubber: A sheet of silicone rubber backed with steel or aluminium and used as a hot-stamping die for raised and flat surfaces on plastics. Made with various thicknesses of both face and backing. See ' Tipping'. Foil of bright gold, silver and metallic colours manufactured by the vacuum plating process. Large or broad areas. Clamshell: A press that stamps foil with clamshell type of action, ie. a Kluge, Thompson Heidelberg, etc. Cylinder: A press which uses a flat die passing under an impression cylinder. Roll-On: A press that applies foil with a rolling action. Rotary: A press where the die is round. Vertical: A press that stamps with a straight up and down stroke. To hot stamp a raised plastic surface with silicone rubber. A pneumatic cylinder applies the force, which is multiplied by toggle mechanism. The resistance of a foil to sustained rubbing. Foil with poor top rub will smear or break down rather easily. Foil stamping that allows a partial passage of light. Sometimes used to colour a transparent plastic. Foil with a woodgrain pattern.
Simulated Foils: Solids: Stamping Press:
Tipping: Toggle Press: Top Rub: Translucent: Woodgrain Foil:
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THE GUIDE TO HOT STAMPING AND FOIL SELECTION

Quality management systems

AS/NZS ISO 9001:2000

Certificate No.: QEC2098 Issue Date: 11 November 2005

Certified Date: Expiry Date:

09 February 2004 24 November 2006

SAI Global Limited

for and on behalf of

Authorised Local Signatory, SAI Global

THE INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATION NETWORK

MKP 142.02 CDAN 05/225 HMABLAZE 112557

Alex Ezrakhovich General Manager Certification

Milford Astor Astor Milford Foilmakers

Matt Pigment Foils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12- 19 17

Pearl Foils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15- 27 25

Milford Astor Foilmakers Milford Astor

Basic Hot Stamping Information

Foil Storage Conditions

Roll Widths and Lengths

Under Cured Varnishes

Recommendations for Successful Foil Blocking

Milford Astor Milford Astor Foilmakers

Over Varnishing / Printing

How to Order Foils

Milford AstorAstor Milford Foilmakers

Hot Stamping History, Stamping Equipment

Foils Available Today

Milford Astor Foilmakers Milford Astor

VACUUM METALLISED FOIL

Milford Astor Foilmakers Milford Astor

Milford Astor B Diagram C

HAND OPERATED PRESS

CLAM ACTION PRESS

TOGGLE ACTION PRESS

FOILING SECTION OF ROTARY LABEL PRESS

ROLL-ON PRESS FOR PLASTICS & MDF

DIRECT ACTION AIR OPERATED PRESS

CYLINDER HOT FOIL PRESS WITH AUTO FEED 

Foil Selection Guide

It is always advisable to check availability of stock Easy Release Foil

Grade EFA Grade EFE

Tight Release Foil Easy Release Foil

Medium Release Foil

Available in shades 002, 008, 029, And others on request.

Easy Release Foil

Available in shades 385, 428, SM, SBR

Medium Release Foil

Available in shades 385, 425, 428, SM, SBR

Easy Release Foil (Overstampable)

Available in shades 385, SBR

Medium Release Foil (Overprintable)

Available in shades 000, 385

Cold Foil (Free Radical Type)

Fast release up to 300m/minute. Requires special adhesive which is readily available.

Milford Astor Metallic Foils - For Graphics

Medium Release Foil

Available in shades 10, 23, 33, 46, 64, 70

Medium Release Foil

Grade 100 Grade 101

Available in shade 000 Available in shade 001

Medium Release Foil

Grade 140 000 Grade 140 300 Grade 030

Easy Release Foil

CYLINDER HOT FOIL PRESS WITH AUTO FEED

For Shades Available Request Samples