ASTM D5958-99(2011)

1.1 These practices describe laboratory procedures for preparing an oil-based ink resin solution in a high-boiling solvent using four pieces of lab equipment; (1) a hot oil bath (Sections 4 to 11),

(2) a stirrer/hot plate (Sections 12 to 16),

(3) an industrial blender (Sections 17 to 22), and

(4) a hot air gun (Sections 23 to 27).
ASTM Subcommittee D01.37 recommends using the hot oil bath procedure (Practice ) where possible.

1.2 These practices use laboratory equipment generally available in a normal, well-equipped laboratory.

1.3 One or several of these practices allows for rapid resin solution preparation (under 30 min, typical), can regulate the maximum temperature, can be done under an inert atmosphere, and can prevent the random solvent loss during preparation.

1.4 These procedures are for use with ink resins intended mainly for oil-based offset and letterpress inks. The type of resins are typically, but not limited to C₉ aromatic hydrocarbon resins, modified dicyclopentadiene resins, rosin pentaerythritol or glycerine esters, phenolic modified rosin esters, maleic anhydride modified rosin esters, and naturally occurring resins such as gilsonite.

1.5 The typical high boiling solvents to be used include C₁₂ to C₁₆ petroleum distillates, 2,2,4 trimethyl 1,3-pentanediol di-isobutyrate, alkali refined linseed oil, tridecyl alcohol, or combinations of the above.

1.6 To avoid fire or injury, or both, to the operator, these practices should not be used with low flash point solvents such as toluene or xylene. The minimum flash point of the solvents used should be 60°C (140°F) as determined by Test Method D56. (Warning-Users of this practice should be aware that the flash point of many solvents used for this test (as defined in Test Methods D56 and D1310) is exceeded in the heating cycle of this test method. Take safety precautions since there is the potential for vapor ignition. Do the methods outlined in a shielded exhaust hood, where there is access to a fire extinguisher if needed.)

1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific hazard statement see 25.11.