OUTDOOR USE ONLY
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This is a reconstruction of the classic heavy-duty shipping ink used in steel drum marking. It uses a solvent-based vehicle to bite through oil/grease and carbon pigment for permanent opacity.
BATCH FORMULA (1 LITER)
Swipe table for percentages →
| Ingredient | Function | Mass (g) | % |
|---|---|---|---|
| XYLOL (Xylene) | Solvent Base | 750g | 79.0% |
| PINE ROSIN | Binder/Glue | 100g | 10.5% |
| CARBON BLACK | Pigment | 60g | 6.3% |
| KAOLIN CLAY | Thickener | 40g | 4.2% |
| TOTAL | 950g | 100% |
Why? The "missing" ingredients are naturally occurring chemical fractions found inside Industrial Grade Xylene. They are listed on safety documents for regulatory reasons, but you do not add them separately. They are already in the solvent can.
SUPPLY MANIFEST
Operational Procedure
01. Safety & Prep
Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area (outside or garage with door open). Xylene fumes are heavy and potent.
02. Create the "Varnish"
In a glass or metal container, pour 500g of Xylol. Take your 100g of Pine Rosin (crushed to powder) and slowly add it to the solvent. Stir until completely dissolved.
03. The Slurry
This is the critical step to prevent clumps. Slowly add the Carbon Black (60g) and Kaolin Clay (40g) to the Varnish.
04. High Shear Dispersion
Pigment needs force to mix. You have two options:
- Drill Method: Use a paint mixing paddle on a drill at high speed for 15 minutes.
- Shaker Method: Add 50+ steel BBs or ball bearings to the jar, seal tight, and shake violently for 20 minutes.
05. The Let Down
Once the mixture is smooth and black, add the remaining 250g of Xylol to thin the ink to the correct viscosity. Stir gently to combine.
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