Removing masking tape residue from reg marks when reusing screens

[StinkyDaddy]

I use newmans and i rarely reuse screens, but i have a reorder for a 4 color job that I caught before I reclaimed the screens. I normally use mineral spirits to clean the ink off screens before I reclaim. i have used that to clean the tape residue off reg marks when resetting a job. It's not a quick thing. I just thought I'd ask if anyone has a better method?

[mooseman]

lacquer thinner, acetone, finger polish remover, bug & tar remover (automotive), goo gone, adhesive remover used in the vinyl sign biz,
http://www.truevalue.com/product/Ready-Strip-32-oz-Dried-Paint-Adhesive-Ink-Remover/26225.uts?keyword=adhesive remover#fullDescription

http://www.lowes.com/pd_263863-78-FG650_0__?productId=50192535&Ntt=adhesive+removers&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3Dadhesive%2Bremovers&facetInfo=

http://www.lowes.com/pd_643784-33097-REM-036-522_0__?productId=50287523&Ntt=adhesive+removers&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3Dadhesive%2Bremovers&facetInfo=

important to test first with the compatibility with your emulsion.
We like acetone because it evaporates very fast and leaves no oily residue, next favorite is lacquer thinner but this can be a little tough on emulsion.
Since you are already using "hot " products that above kinda fall in line.
We have tried in the past Ickee Stickee unstuck from Franmar but have been somewhat disappointed with the results.
best of luck
mooseman

[StinkyDaddy]

I'll give some of those a try.
Thanks.

[Frog]

1. Most of us have gotten away from mineral spirits and replaced with "friendlier" and less flammable cleaning products. Heck, mineral spirits aren't even that much cheaper any more.
Petroleum based cleaners have also been known to not play well with some emulsions especially with those underexposed, iften adding to a difficulty in reclaim. Moose already pointed out the need to test how different solvents react with your emulsion(s).
Back in the day, Xylene was our common cleaner, and the new photopolymer emulsion from Murakami didn't react well in our shop. We kept and reused a lot of screens and hallftone areas required caeful inspection. (screen opener was even worse)

2. Have you tried tapes with less residue? Clear tapes with rubber based adhesive are popular and easily available. They still require some cleaning, but tend to not leave a stcky reminder. Heck, you may even get away with only pulling the reg mark tapes on one screen with clear tape over the rest.

[screenxpress]

I just use plain old scotch tape on the regs and a quick shot of "screen opener" clears off any residue.

When applying the tape over the regs (or a pin hole discovered later), I fold back a small edge of the tape making a small flap so I have something to "grab" onto later for easy removal.  Nothing I hate more than to spend 10 frustrating minutes trying to get an edge of tape started using my fingernail.

[Printficient]

Spit.  Opens almost any mesh blockage.