Attachment_A-3_-_IR_Trans_Green_Ink_Specification_ICWIR-4_-_31JUL12.pdf
PDF 123 KB Posted
- Attached to
- Currency and Security Inks Federal contract opportunity
- Solicitation number
- BEP-RFP-13-0203
About this file
Attachment A-3 - IR Trans Green Ink Specification ICWIR-4 dated 31JUL12
View the file
Other files for this federal contract opportunity
Show all 13
On GovTribe
Work with this file on GovTribe
- Download the original file
- Contacts named in this file
- Similar government files
- Ask GovTribe AI about this file
Text version
I: ICWIR-4
July 31, 2012 Supersedes
I: ICWIR-3
April 29, 2010
DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
BUREAU OF ENGRAVING AND PRINTING
WASHINGTON, DC 20228
BEP SPECIFICATION
FOR
INK: CYLINDER-WIPE, NON-HEATSET, INTAGLIO,
SHEET-FED, INFRARED-TRANSPARENT GREEN CURRENCY INK
1.0 SCOPE AND CLASSIFICATION
1.1 Scope. This specification establishes performance and acceptance requirements for cylinder-wipe, non-heatset, green intaglio ink that is transparent in the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The ink shall be suitable for use in printing United States currency on De La Rue Giori sheet-fed I-10 (I-10) and Super Orlof Intaglio (SOI) presses at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing’s Washington, DC facility and Fort Worth, TX facility hereinafter referred to as the "BEP"
1.2 Classification. This specification covers one type of cylinder-wipe, non-heatset, infrared-transparent green intaglio ink and is identified as BEP stock item 1I001285.
2.0 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS. The issues of the documents are those in effect on the date of the solicitation.
2.1 Government Documents.
2.1.1 Specifications, Standards and Handbooks. The following specifications, standards, and handbooks form a part of this specification to the extent specified herein.
Federal Standards:
FED-STD-141D/GEN -- Paint, Varnish, Lacquer, and Related Materials; Methods of Inspection, Sampling and Testing
(Federal specifications and standards may be obtained from the General Services Administration; Federal Supply Service; Specification Section (3FP-E); 470 East L’Enfant Plaza, SW; Suite 8100; Washington, DC 20407.)
Bureau of Engraving and Printing Specifications:
P: CDT1 Paper: Currency, Distinctive, Type I (current version) P: CDT3 Paper: Currency, Distinctive, Type III (current version) P: CDT4 Paper: Currency, Distinctive, Type IV (current version) P: CDT5 Paper: Currency, Distinctive, Type V (current version) I: ICWC Inks: Cylinder-Wipe, Non-Heatset, Intaglio, Sheet-Fed Currency
Inks and Varnish (current version) L: VAB Specification for Vendor Affixed Barcode Labels for Bureau of Engraving and Printing Materials (current version) I: CSI Inks: Color Shifting, Cylinder-Wipe, Non-Heatset, Intaglio, Sheet-
Fed Currency Inks (current version) I: SDOC Inks: Sheet-fed Dry Offset Currency (current version) I: MetInk Ink: Cylinder-Wipe, Non-Heatset, Intaglio, Sheet-fed Currency, with
Metallic Appearance (current version) I: TCGB Ink: Typographic, Cope Green
(Single copies of BEP specifications are available from the Contracting Officer; Bureau of Engraving and Printing; Office of Acquisition; 14th and C Streets, SW; Washington, DC 20228.)
2.1.2 Other Government Documents, Drawings, and Publications. The following other government documents, drawings, and publications form a part of this document to the extent specified herein.
Bureau of Engraving and Printing Test Methods:
STM 300.001 Crumple Test STM 300.002 Laundering Test STM 300.003 Chemical Resistance Tests STM 310.008 Determination of Metals in Printing Inks STM 320.007 Color Measurement of Currency Inks STM 320.009 Roller Compatibility Test for Inks and Fluids
STM 320.010 Inks Compatibility with the Wastewater Pretreatment
Process STM 321.005 Fineness of Grind (FOG) Determination
(Single copies of BEP specifications are available from the Contracting Officer; Bureau of Engraving and Printing; Office of Acquisition; 14th and C Streets, SW; Washington, DC 20228.)
Bureau of Engraving and Printing Document:
Environmental, Health and Safety for Materials Specifications (Attachment)
(Request for copies should be addressed to the Contracting Officer; Bureau of Engraving and Printing; Office of Acquisition; 14th and C Streets, SW; Washington, DC 20228.)
2.2 Non-Government Publications. The following documents form a part of this specification to the extent specified herein.
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Methods:
D 1316 -- Fineness of Grind of Printing Inks by the NPIRI Grindometer D 1729 -- Visual Evaluation of Color Differences of Opaque Materials D 2244 -- Calculation of Color Differences from Instrumentally Measured Color Coordinates D 2369 -- Volatile Content of Coatings D 3792 -- Water Content of Water-Reducible Paints by Direct Injection Into a Gas Chromatograph G 155 Operating Xenon-Arc Light Apparatus for Exposure of Non-metallic Materials
(Request for copies should be addressed to the American Society for Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-1137. ASTM methods are also available for purchase at the following website: www.astm.org)
International Commission on Illumination (CIE) Publication CIE Number 15.2, Colorimetry, 2nd Edition, 1986
(Request for copies should be addressed to the International Commission on Illumination; Central Bureau of the CIE, A-1033 Vienna; P.O. Box 169 - Austria.)
National Motor Freight Classification Rules and Container Specifications
(Request for copies should be addressed to the American Trucking Association, Inc.;
2200 Mill Road; Alexandria, Virginia 22314. The National Motor Freight Classification is also available for purchase at the following website: www.smc3.com)
Non-Government standards and publications are available from the organizations that prepare or distribute the documents. These documents also may be available from libraries or other information services.
2.3 Order of Precedence. In the event of a conflict between the text of this document and the references cited herein, the text of this document takes precedence.
Nothing in this document, however, supersedes applicable laws and regulations unless specific exemption has been obtained.
2.4 Internal References. All paragraphs, sections, and table references will be to paragraphs, sections, and tables of this specification, unless stated otherwise.
3.0 REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Material. The ink shall be a cylinder-wipe, non-heatset, infrared-transparent green intaglio ink. The ink shall be transparent to wavelengths in the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum between 850 nanometers and 1100 nanometers, inclusive. The ink shall be compatible with all other types of inks used to print United States currency. The ink shall meet the performance, health and safety, environmental, and other requirements specified herein when used in the sheet-fed printing of United States currency on intaglio presses in the BEP.
3.2 Shelf Life. The ink shall show no evidence of deterioration or change in properties that would render them unfit for its specified use when stored for periods not exceeding one year (365 days) from the date of manufacture.
3.3 Ink Physical Requirements. The contractor shall provide target values for viscosity, yield value, initial tack, maximum tack, and CIE 1976 color coordinates (L*, a*, b*). The contractor shall also identify the make and model of the test instrument and the test parameters used to determine each property.
3.3.1 Viscosity and Yield Value. The viscosity and yield value of the ink shall be determined by the use of a recording cone and plate viscometer (rheometer) as specified in paragraph 4.3.6. The control limits for viscosity and yield value shall be that given in Table I section 3.3.9 of this specification.
3.3.2 Tack. The initial tack and maximum tack of the ink shall be determined by the use of a Tack-O-Scope®, inkometer, or equivalent equipment as specified in paragraph
4.3.7. The control limits for initial tack, and maximum tack shall be that given in Table I section 3.3.9 of this specification.
3.3.3 Visual Color Match. Production batches of the infrared-transparent green ink shall be a visual color match to the BEP approved formulation (reference) when drawn down on paper as specified in paragraph 4.3.1.
3.3.3.1 Instrumentally Measured Color Difference. The instrumentally measured color of production batches of ink and the corresponding BEP approved formulation (reference) shall be determined as specified in paragraph 4.3.2. The ink shall have a ∆E less than or equal to 1.0. The CIE 1976 (CIELAB) color coordinates (L*, a*, b*) shall be reported for the production sample, and the determination of ∆E shall be based on these values and similarly measured L*, a*, b* for the BEP approved formulation (reference) sample.
3.3.4 Ink Reflectivity. The ink reflectivity shall match the BEP approved reference standard. The ink reflectivity shall be determined by measurements of the UV/Vis/NIR reflectivity spectrum measured in accordance to the procedures as specified in paragraph 4.3.15.
3.3.5 Opacity. Production batches of the infrared-transparent green ink shall be visually equal in opacity to the BEP approved formulation (reference) when tested as specified in paragraph 4.3.3.
3.3.6 Lightfastness. The infrared-transparent green ink shall be lightfast. The magnitude of the color difference, ∆E, of the printed ink film before and after exposure to the light produced by a xenon-arc for a period of up to 72 hours shall be less than or equal to 1.0 unit (∆E ≤ 1.0) when tested as specified in paragraph 4.3.4.
3.3.7 Fineness of Grind. The ink shall be uniformly dispersed, free from entrapped skin, agglomerates or foreign substances, and should have a smooth appearance absent of speckles when pulled down in the paths of the grindometer. The ink shall exhibit no more than three (3) scratches, 10 millimeters or longer, at or above the 25 micrometer (0.001 inch) channel depth when tested as specified in paragraph 4.3.5.
3.3.8 Infrared Transparency. The ink shall be transparent to wavelengths in the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum between 850 nanometers and 1100 nanometers (nm), inclusive. The ink shall have a minimum “I Value” of 50 when tested as specified in paragraph 4.3.14. The I Value is a measure of the average transparency of the infrared-transparent green ink compared to the average BEP non-infrared-opaque green ink (BEP stock item 1I000286). The I Value is calculated using the following formula:
I Value = ((∆R@850nm) + (∆R@900nm) + (∆R@950nm) + (∆R@1000nm) + (∆R@1050nm) + (∆R@1100nm))/6
Where ∆R is defined as the difference in diffuse reflectance percentages between the infrared-transparent green ink and the BEP non-infrared-opaque green ink.
3.3.9 Control Limits. The "control limits" define the maximum variation in physical properties that the BEP will accept within or between batches of ink. The contractor shall supply ink that meets the control limits listed in Table I.
Table I
INK PROPERTIES AND CONTROL LIMITS
Property Control Limits
Viscosity ± 20% of target value Yield Value < 175 Pascal or ± 20% of target value Initial Tack ± 10% of target value Maximum Tack ± 10% of target value
3.4 Printing Performance Requirements.
3.4.1 Pumpability. The ink shall be pumpable with a piston type ink pump at a rate that will keep the press ink fountain adequately supplied to keep the press printing at the required speed.
3.4.2 Ink Application. The press inking-in and ductor rollers shall not require cleaning more often than one time during each eight-hour shift of press operation. The ink shall not cure in the fountain, on the rollers, or in the engravings during normal operations or during short press shutdowns of 30 minutes or less to an extent which will require manual cleaning of the fountain, rollers, or plates. Examples of short press shutdowns are stops required to make minor repairs, to remove mis-fed sheets, or to make press adjustments. The ink shall not cause the ink fountain drip pan to require cleaning more often than once during an 8-hour period of press operation. For the SOI press, the inks should not cause slinging and/or misting such that cleaning of the press is required more often than once during an 8-hour period of press operation.
3.4.3 Cylinder Wiping. The ink shall wipe cleanly from the chrome plated engraved plates using the existing press cylinder wiping system. The ink shall not attack or degrade the wiping roller to the extent that damage or loss in wiper life occurs (see paragraph 3.4.9). For the I-10 and SOI presses, the wiper roller life should not be less than 100,000 impressions for the wiper rollers comprised of polyvinyl chloride plastisol.
The wiper roller is cleaned by an aqueous caustic wiping solution comprised of 98.5% water, 1.0% sodium hydroxide, and 0.5% sulfated castor oil. The plate shall wipe cleanly (as judged by the appearance of the printed work) and should cause no more than 30 kilowatts in additional power during wiping. Additional power requirement means the difference in wattage when the press is run with and without engaging the wiping mechanism. The ink shall disperse in the cylinder wiping solution. The ink shall not cause the wiper tank to require manual cleaning more often than once during an 8-hour period of press operation due to ink buildup.
3.4.4 Press Speed. The ink shall print a minimum of 10,000 sheets per hour on the I- 10 and SOI presses (see paragraph 6.1).
3.4.5 Print Quality. The ink shall be capable of printing the currency design with quality that is equal to or superior to that of the BEP reference sheet. The print quality of sheets printed with the ink will be compared visually to that of the BEP reference sheet. Variable press conditions e.g., printing pressure and plate temperature will be adjusted to maximize the print quality obtainable, but will not be taken beyond the ranges that allow the most efficient press operation.
3.4.6 Production Color Match. The image on work printed with the infrared-transparent green ink shall be a visual match in color to the same image of the BEP reference sheet when viewed as specified in paragraph 4.3.8. There shall be no discernible color difference between the infrared-transparent green ink and the non-infrared-opaque green ink (BEP stock item 1I000286) on the printed work.
3.4.7 Abrasive Properties. The ink shall not contain ingredients that will cause premature intaglio plate wear. The average plate life shall be a minimum of 500,000 impressions. The occurrence of premature plate wear caused by the ink is unacceptable.
3.4.8 Corrosion. The ink shall not corrode the printing plates or any mechanical part of the press to the extent that damage to the plates or press occurs. The following are known to cause corrosion: fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, fluorides, chlorides, bromides, iodides, common salt, hydrochloric acid, ammonia, and ammonia compounds or derivatives. The ink shall not have a pH value less than 4.5.
3.4.9 Roller Compatibility. The ink shall not soften, harden, swell, shrink, or deteriorate the press rollers (e.g. ductor roller, inking-in roller, wiper roller) to the extent that damage to the roller or any mechanical part of the press occurs (see paragraph 6.2).
3.4.10 Wastewater Pretreatment Compatibility Test. The ink shall be compatible with the BEP wastewater pretreatment process (see paragraph 6.3).
3.5 Printed Work Requirements.
3.5.1 Processing of Printed Sheets. Printed sheets shall be stackable immediately, up to 10,000 sheets high, without excessive set-off or blocking. Set-off is considered excessive when the ink transfers to the adjacent sheet to such an extent that it is noticeable during the examining process and the printed sheet is determined to be unacceptable. Blocking is considered excessive when more force than normal is required to separate the printed sheets. Printed sheets shall be processable within 72 hours of printing. The time needed for the ink to be processable after printing shall not cause an interruption in the currency manufacturing process or require additional vault space for storage. The ink shall not cause flaking and dust formation during processing of printed sheets.
3.5.2 Ink Adhesion. The ink shall adhere to the currency paper. The ink shall have a minimum crumple rating of 4 initially at 7 to 10 days after printing and during the life of the currency note when subjected to the Crumple Test as specified in paragraph 4.3.9.
The permanency of ink adhesion will be tested by the BEP at 21 to 28 days after printing or at any time thereafter.
3.5.3 Ink Resistance to Laundering. The ink on the printed note shall be resistant to ink loss, loss of clarity, and color changes when laundered. The ink shall exhibit a minimum laundry rating of 4 initially at 7 to 10 days after printing and during the life of the currency note when tested as specified in paragraph 4.3.10. The permanency of ink resistance to laundering will be tested by the BEP at 21 to 28 days after printing or at any time thereafter.
3.5.4 Chemical Resistance. The ink on the printed note shall exhibit chemical resistance when tested as specified in paragraph 4.3.11. A maximum of three (3) inferior ratings out of nine (9) chemicals tested for resistance initially at 7 to 10 days after printing and during the life of the currency note shall be the minimum for acceptability. Ink that is completely removed from the note by any one of the nine chemicals shall be unacceptable. The permanency of the ink to resist chemicals will be tested by the BEP at 21 to 28 days after printing or at any time thereafter.
3.5.5 Magnetic Properties. The infrared-transparent green ink shall not contain any ingredient that can be magnetized and therefore shall not exhibit a magnetic signal when tested using the equipment identified in paragraph 4.3.12.
3.5.6 Security Feature Performance. The ink shall not impact the performance of the security features in United States currency. Notes printed with the ink shall process through the automated currency verification equipment identified in paragraph 4.3.13
3.6 Environmental, Health and Safety Requirements. The contractor shall comply with the requirements of Environmental, Health and Safety for Materials Specifications (See attachment).
3.6.1 Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Content. The inks shall have a VOC content of less than or equal to 12.0 percent by weight when tested as specified in paragraph 4.3.16. This limit is based on the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations Title 20, Air Quality Control Regulations of 1984.
4.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE PROVISIONS
4.1 Contractor Quality Assurance. The BEP shall rely on the contractors’ existing quality assurance system prior to delivery of the material. The BEP reserves the right to perform inspections and tests that the BEP deems necessary upon receipt of the material to assure conformance to requirements. The BEP may conduct periodic site visits and quality audits of the facilities of the manufacturer or major first-tier subcontractors in cases where the contractor is a “broker” or “regular dealer.” Upon request by the BEP, the contractor shall provide a copy of their current quality assurance system document, e.g., quality assurance plan to the BEP. If the contractor is a “broker” or a “regular dealer” and not the manufacturer of supplies to be delivered under the terms of the contract, the contractor shall provide a copy of the current quality assurance system document of its major first-tier subcontractors. The quality assurance system document will be used by the BEP as the basis for conducting the quality audit.
4.2 Inspection, Testing and Sampling.
4.2.1 Responsibility for Inspection and Testing. Unless otherwise specified herein in the contract or in the purchase order, the contractor is responsible for the performance of all inspection and testing specified. Except as otherwise specified, the contractor may utilize his own facilities or any commercial laboratory acceptable to the BEP. The BEP reserves the right to perform inspections and tests that the BEP deems necessary to assure that supplies and services conform to prescribed requirements.
This may include site visits and periodic quality audits of the facilities of the manufacturer.
4.2.2 Sampling. The inspection and testing of each lot or batch of ink in each shipment shall be based on a sampling method that is an accepted industry practice.
The contractor shall determine the lot or batch size of the ink. The contractor shall provide the sampling method to the BEP and ensure that each lot or batch of ink within the shipment has been inspected and tested to meet the requirements of the specification.
4.2.3 Batch Samples. The contractor shall provide, with each shipment, a sample of approximately 50 cubic centimeters of each batch or lot of ink in that shipment. The samples shall be packaged in airtight metal cans and shall be identified with the contractor’s name, manufacturer’s name if different from the contractor, product code, batch or lot number, and the date of manufacture. The overpack containing the samples shall be addressed to the COR. The batch or lot samples shall be delivered at the same time that the drums of ink are delivered to the BEP.
4.2.4 BEP Testing. The BEP will evaluate the ink on BEP equipment for compliance to the requirements of Paragraphs 3.4 and 3.5 since these evaluations necessitate the use of BEP equipment.
4.3 Ink Property Testing. Testing shall be conducted in accordance with the following methods. Reference to specific instruments is for information only; use of a company and/or product name in this document does not imply approval or recommendation of the product in preference to others that may also be suitable. The BEP will work with the contractor to establish a correlation between various instruments when required.
4.3.1 Visual Color Match. Production batches of the infrared-transparent green ink shall be a visual color match to that of the BEP approved formulation (reference) on drawdown paper, BEP form 9677-2 or equivalent, when drawn down side by side with a wide blade ink or putty knife. Evaluate the ink with respect to the color in accordance with ASTM D 1729.
4.3.2 Instrumentally Measured Color Difference. The mass color of an "infinitely thick" dried film of ink shall be determined instrumentally in accordance with ASTM D 2244, and expressed in the CIE 1976 Uniform Color Space. The dried film sample shall be prepared with a Prüfbau printer as described in STM 320.007. An alternative method for measuring the mass color is conducted by using a 4-inch by 6-inch glass plate accordingly: apply a uniform film of ink to the glass plate with a 76 micrometer (0.003 inch) Bird type film applicator; dry the plate in a convection oven at 100° C (212°F) for 45 minutes; allow the glass plate to equilibrate for two hours at room temperature; and then measure the color of the samples in accordance with ASTM D 2244 using illuminant D65; standard 10-degree observer, and with specular reflectance excluded.
∆E is calculated from the CIE 1976 (CIELAB) Uniform Color Space as follows:
E = ( L* ) +( a* ) +( b* )2 2 2
The report shall be as specified in ASTM D 2244. Refer to paragraph 6.5 for additional information.
4.3.3 Opacity. A sample of the production infrared-transparent green ink shall be drawn down side by side with a sample of the BEP approved formulation (reference) on drawdown paper, BEP form 9677-2 or equivalent, with a wide blade ink or putty knife.
The ink drawdown paper has a heavy black line printed on it near the center, running horizontally. On the basis of the show-through of the printed black line, the production infrared-transparent green ink sample shall be reported as equal to, more, or less opaque than the reference sample. Production batches of the infrared-transparent green ink shall be visually equal in opacity to the BEP approved formulation (reference).
4.3.4 Lightfastness. Prints of the ink prepared as described in STM 320.007 shall be exposed to the light produced by a xenon-arc light-exposure apparatus following ASTM G 155, Table X3.1, and Cycle 11 for a period of up to 72 hours. A portion of the sample shall be masked from the arc. The color of exposed and unexposed areas shall be measured in accordance with STM 320.007, and the color difference (∆E) calculated.
4.3.5 Fineness of Grind. The fineness of grind test shall be completed in accordance with ASTM D 1316, modified accordingly: report the number of scratches at or above the 25 micrometers (0.001 inch) channel depth. The BEP uses a G-3 Fineness of Grind gauge manufactured by the Precision Gauge and Tool Company.
4.3.6 Viscosity and Yield Value. The viscosity and yield value shall be determined using a recording viscometer or rheometer with a cone and plate measuring system.
The viscosity and yield value shall be measured using test settings that give optimal sensitivity for the material being tested. Refer to paragraph 6.4 for additional information.
4.3.7 Tack. Tack data versus time shall be obtained using a Tack-O-Scope® (IGT Systems, Arlington Heights, IL), inkometer, or equivalent. Test parameters will be set to give optimal sensitivity for the material being tested.
4.3.8 Production Color Match. The image on work printed with the infrared-transparent green ink shall be a visual match in color to the same image of the BEP reference sheet when viewed under illuminant D65 and cool white fluorescent light in accordance with ASTM D 1729.
4.3.9 Ink Adhesion. The crumple test shall be performed in accordance with STM 300.001.
4.3.10 Resistance to Laundering. The laundering test shall be performed in accordance with STM 300.002.
4.3.11 Chemical Resistance. The chemical resistance tests shall be performed in accordance with STM 300.003.
4.3.12 Magnetic Properties. The magnetic signal of notes shall be performed using the automated currency verification equipment.
4.3.13 Currency Feature Verification. The impact of the ink on other security features of the note shall be performed using the automated currency verification equipment.
4.3.14 Infrared Transparency. A dried ink film sample of the infrared-transparent green ink shall be prepared with a Prüfbau printability tester as described in STM
320.007. For reference, a dried ink film sample of the BEP non-infrared-opaque green ink (BEP stock item 1I000286) shall be prepared using the same procedure. The difference in the diffuse reflectance percentages (∆R) between the infrared-transparent green ink and the reference shall be determined using a spectrophotometer. The ∆R shall be determined at the following wavelengths: 850nm, 900nm, 950nm, 1000nm, 1050nm, and 1100nm. A background scan of the substrate material without ink film shall be performed prior to scanning the dried ink films. A previously obtained spectrum of the substrate without ink film may also be used as the background scan, if necessary.
After completing the background check, the reference ink film shall be scanned followed by the infrared-transparent green ink film at each specified wavelength. Refer to Paragraph 6.6 for additional information.
4.3.15 Ink Reflectivity. UV/Vis/NIR reflectance spectra are acquired according to the following methodology:
Instrument: The UV/Vis/NIR spectrophotometer shall be capable of acquiring spectra in the range of 200 to 2,200 nm. The instrument should contain an integrating sphere for sampling.
Sampling: The dried film sample shall be prepared with a Prüfbau printer as described in STM 320.007.
Range: 200 – 2,200 nm
4.3.16 Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Content. The volatile organic compound content of the ink shall be determined in accordance with ASTM D 2369 as the difference between the total volatile content of the ink and the total water content (determined in accordance with ASTM D3792) of the ink.
4.4 Inspection.
4.4.1 Weight. Examination for weight shall be based on a method that is an accepted industry practice. The contractor shall determine the lot or batch size of ink. The contractor shall provide the method to the BEP and ensure that each lot or batch of ink within the shipment has been inspected and tested to meet the requirements of the specification. Any drum containing less ink than is marked on the drum shall be considered discrepant.
4.4.2 Preparation for Delivery. Examination for preparation for delivery shall be completed based on a method that is an acceptable industry practice. The contractor shall determine the lot or batch size of ink. The contractor shall provide the method to the BEP and ensure that each lot or batch of ink within the shipment has been inspected and tested to meet the requirements of the specification. Inspection shall be covered by the requirements of Section 5.
4.5 Contractor Documentation
4.5.1 Contractor Certifications and Reports. The contractor shall certify in writing that the ink supplied in each delivery conforms to all the requirements including health, safety, and environmental as set forth in this specification. The signed and dated certification shall include a statement of the recovered materials content. This certification of conformance shall accompany the report of contractor inspections and tests. The target values and control limits for the ink properties used to control the quality of the inks shall be included in the contractor report of inspections and tests.
The contractor shall furnish the certification of conformance and reports showing the results of inspections and tests performed for each batch or lot to the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). The contractor shall provide a hard copy of the batch or lot spectrum compared to a standard spectrum and standard deviation provided in the spectral range 200 to 2,200 nm. The results of inspections and tests shall be provided in electronic form (Microsoft® Office compatible) along with the hard copy of the data.
4.5.2 Trend Chart. The contractor shall provide a trend chart of each of the following control variables: tack, viscosity, yield, L*, a*, b*, ∆E and any other control variable that the contractor has identified to ensure the quality of the ink. The control variables are characteristics or properties of the ink. The trend chart is a plot of the control variable of each lot or batch of ink plotted sequentially by the date of manufacture and shall contain the contractor’s specification control limits for the characteristic or property. In addition, the contractor shall provide a control chart of each instrument used to measure select control variables, as identified by the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). The contractor shall furnish the control chart of the instruments and the trend chart of each control variable to the COR on a quarterly basis. The charts shall be provided to the COR in electronic form (Microsoft® Office compatible).
4.5.3 Spectral Curve. The contractor shall supply a spectral curve of each batch of production ink versus the spectral standard of the corresponding BEP approved formulation (reference) in the range of 200 to 2,200 nm.
4.5.4 Instrumentally Measured Color. The contractor shall supply instrumentally measured color (CIE 1976) of each production batch of ink and the corresponding BEP approved formulation (reference).
5.0 PREPARATION FOR DELIVERY
5.1 Packaging. The packaging and packing shall conform to Department of Transportation Rules and Regulations (which require a MSDS with each shipment) and the applicable requirements of the National Motor Freight Classification Rules and Container Specifications.
5.1.1 Container Packaging. The ink shall be delivered in tightly sealed, clean, undented, open head 208-liter (55-gallon) metal drums. Drum bodies and bottoms shall have a minimum thickness of 0.912 mm (0.0359 inches) and 1.09 mm (0.0428 inches), respectively (20 and 18 gauge sheet steel, respectively). The drums shall have two ribs, one rib at one-third of the height of the drum from the top and the other rib at one-third the height of the drum from the bottom. Reconditioned drums are acceptable.
Drums should be filled to within 10 to 20 centimeters (4 to 8 inches) of the top of the drum, and the weight of ink in the drums shall be consistent from drum to drum. The drums shall be compatible with BEP ink pumping equipment (see paragraph 3.4.1).
5.1.1.1 Drum Color. For BEP identification and inventory control, the infrared-transparent green ink shall be packaged in blue colored drums.
5.1.2 Drum Liner. Each drum of ink shall be provided with a removable plastic liner.
The liner shall be compatible with the ink to minimize or prevent the ink from polymerizing and forming ink skin along the interface between the drum liner and ink.
The liner shall form fit the drum and rim with an overhang and shall be securely fastened to the exterior of the drum so that the top of the liner will not fall or be pushed into the drum during use of the ink. The liner shall not tear when the ink is being pumped (see paragraph 3.4.1) or when the pump plunger is manually removed from the drum.
5.1.2.1 Top Liner. Each drum of ink shall have a thin, high strength, clear, and colorless plastic sheet completely covering the top surface of the ink. The top liner shall be compatible with the ink and minimize or prevent the ink from polymerizing and forming ink skin.
5.1.3 Container Marking. Each drum shall be plainly marked "INTAGLIO, IR-GREEN CURRENCY INK, 1I001285". Additionally, each drum shall be plainly marked with the contractor's name, manufacturer’s name if different from the contractor, the batch or lot number, the date of manufacture, the tare weight, the gross weight, the net weight, and the BEP purchase order number. The drum markings shall be legible, not less than twenty-five millimeters high, and of a color contrasting to that of the container.
In addition, each drum shall be labeled in accordance with applicable Department of Transportation rules and regulations and with the information required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Hazard Communication Standard.
5.1.4 Ink Identification Cards. Each drum shall have attached two (2) detachable cards containing the contractor's name, manufacturer’s name if different from the contractor, the ink identification number, the BEP stock item number, manufacturer's lot number and date of manufacture.
5.1.5 Hazard Warning Labels. Each container of ink shall be labeled in accordance with the provisions of the Hazard Communication Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1200 (f).
This labeling shall include the name and address of the manufacturer, the identity of the hazardous materials, and the appropriate hazard warnings.
5.1.6 Barcode Label. The barcode labels shall conform to the "Specification for Vendor Affixed Barcode Labels for Bureau of Engraving and Printing Materials." Each drum shall be marked in accordance with the categories in paragraph 3 of the cited barcode label specification with the following barcoded information:
TABLE II
BARCODE INFORMATION
Specification Category Label Information Product Description INK, INTAGLIO IR-GREEN CURRENCY PO# Purchase Order Number Part# 1I001285 Quantity Net Weight of Drum Contents in Pounds Serial/Lot# The Manufacturer's Ink Formula Number Weight Leave This Entry Blank
5.1.7 Combined Labeling. The information from paragraphs 5.1.3 and 5.1.6 may be combined into one label as long as all information and requirements of these paragraphs are met.
5.2 Palletization. The drums of ink shall be delivered on sturdy, wooden, non-returnable, four-way pallets that permit four-way entry by forklift truck. The pallets may be slatted, and if slatted, the space between two adjacent boards shall not exceed 12.5 centimeters (4.9 inches). The pallet shall have the capacity to hold four drums. There shall be a strap securing the drums on each pallet. A second strap shall encircle the upper half of the drums and shall be tight enough so that it does not slip toward the bottom of the drums. The packaging and packing shall conform to any applicable Department of Transportation rules and regulations and to the applicable requirements of the Uniform Freight Classification Rules and/or National Motor Freight Classification
Rules and Container Specifications. The contractor may propose alternative packing for BEP approval.
6.0 NOTES
6.1 Press Speed. The printing speed of the I-10 and SOI presses is rated at 10,000 sheets per hour.
6.2 Roller Compatibility. Laboratory test method STM 320.009 is used by the BEP to indicate the compatibility of the ink with the roller materials.
6.3 Wastewater Pretreatment Process Compatibility. Laboratory test method STM
320.010 is used by the BEP to indicate the compatibility of the ink with the wastewater pretreatment plant process.
6.4 Viscosity and Yield Value Measurement. The BEP uses a Haake Rheostress 1 Rheometer operated in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. The BEP uses the settings on the rheometer that give optimal sensitivity for the materials being tested.
Currently, BEP test settings are: shear rate 300 s-1, 3 minute ramp time, temperature 50° C, and 25 millimeter (1° angle) cone.
6.5 Color Measurement. The BEP uses a Konica-Minolta system, which has a 6-inch (152 mm) integrating sphere, operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The BEP will assist the contractor in establishing a correlation between the BEP and the contractor’s color measurement system.
6.6 Infrared Transparency Measurement. The BEP uses a Perkin Elmer Lambda 900 UV/VIS/NIR spectrophotometer with a 150 mm integrating sphere operated in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The BEP uses the settings on the spectrophotometer that give optimal sensitivity for the ink being tested. Currently, the BEP test parameters are instrumental default settings, except for the settings listed below.
Instrument Scan Page Line Setting 1 - Ord/Absc Mode %T 3 - Scan Speed 240 nm/minute 4 - Response 1 second 8 - Recorder serial dash 10 - Absc min/max 200/2200 11 - Abscissa Format 100 nm/centimeter 12 - Printer grid/scale
7.0 Definitions. Certain words and phrases are frequently used in this specification.
The following definitions will apply:
7.0.1 "Shall" the emphatic form of the verb, is used whenever a requirement is intended to express a provision that is binding.
7.0.2 "Will" is intended to express a declaration of purpose on the part of the Government. It may also be used to indicate simple futurity.
7.0.3 "Should" is used whenever a non-mandatory characteristic is judged to be desirable for the material. As such, this characteristic may be graded during the evaluation of the material in order to assist in the selection of the best-qualified material.
Attachment
Office of Environment Health and Safety Document:
Environmental, Health and Safety for Materials Specifications
[End]
File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .