Overview: Tempilink® Sterilization Process Inks are designed to indicate the completion of sterilization processes through a permanent color change. These inks are formulated for various sterilization methods including Steam Autoclave, Ethylene Oxide Gas, Hydrogen Peroxide (Plasma), Formaldehyde Gas, Radiation, and Dry Heat.

Specifications: Tempilinks are available in both water and solvent-based formulations. They are suitable for printing on materials like Autoclave Kraft Paper, Tyvek®, polyester, polypropylene, polyimide, and pressure-sensitive tape. The inks conform to ISO 11140-1 Standards for Class 1 process indicators.

Packaging and Weight: Inks are sold in 1-gallon bottles and 5-gallon pails, with weights varying by type: Steam Ink (9 lb/4.1 kg and 45 lb/20.4 kg), Thermal Ink (8 lb/3.6 kg and 40 lb/18.1 kg), EO Ink (7 lb/3.2 kg and 35 lb/15.9 kg), and Radiation Ink (10 lb/4.5 kg and 50 lb/22.7 kg).

Mixing and Application: Water-based inks are supplied as a two-part system and should be mixed by volume. The intensity of the signal color depends on the ink application amount. Pre-production samples should be tested to determine the actual color transformation.

Storage and Shelf Life: Water-based inks have a shelf life of 12 months in original containers, reducing to 1-2 days once mixed. Solvent-based inks last 4-6 months. Inks should be stored between 60°F/15°C and 80°F/27°C, with refrigeration extending shelf life.

Environmental Considerations: Series 200 Steam inks are free of lead, copper, and bismuth. All EO, Formaldehyde, Hydrogen Peroxide (Plasma), Radiation, and Thermal inks are heavy metal-free and VOC-free.

Applications: Tempilink inks are used in hospital and medical facilities for packaging reusable and single-use devices, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. They provide a tamperproof means of confirming sterilization.

Typical Sterilization Procedures: Procedures include dry heat at 320°F/160°C for 40 minutes, EO Gas at 130°F/54°C for 20 minutes, Formaldehyde Gas at 158°F/70°C for 15 minutes, E-beam & Gamma radiation at 10kGy, and steam cycles at 250°F/121°C for 10 minutes or 273°F/134°C for 2 minutes.

Note: Tempilinks are not intended to replace biological monitors that measure pathogen kill rates.