Paper factsGeneric MICR Fundamentals Guide 3-13Preprinted forms considerationsThe combination of consistent data format and element locationmakes preprinted forms useful in MICR applications. Additionalrequirements for security features, either in the base paper stockor in the preprinted form, come from the need to protect afinancially negotiable document.You need to consider several factors related to ink and paperwhen selecting a preprinted form for any type of laser printer.Preprinted check stock must not offset (transfer from a printedsheet onto other surfaces). Work closely with the forms vendor toensure that requirements are understood and met. Always testthe application on the appropriate printer before productionprinting.InksChoosing the correct ink is the first step in designing forms thatfunction well in Xerox printers. Inks for these forms must curewell, must not be tacky, and must not offset. In choosing an ink,you must consider the amount of heat and pressure to which theforms will be exposed while passing through the printer. Youmust also consider the dwell time–the amount of time that thepreprinted paper is subjected to those conditions.Good performance has been reported with the following inktypes:• Oxidative inks: The following qualities are desirable inoxidative inks:– Non-volatile, cross-linkable vehicles– Internal and surface-curing driers– Minimal use of antioxidants– No slip agents– pH in the press fountain high enough to permit curingNOTE: Oxidative inks can require several days to hardensatisfactorily.• UV cured inks: Inks that are cured using UV (ultraviolet) lightchange immediately from liquid to solid upon exposure to anintense UV light source.
